Mathis Trail Review: A Tale of Two Terrains in Laguna Beach

Introduction

Cyclists seeking a ride to remember should consider Mathis Trail in Laguna Beach, California. What makes this trail remarkable is its dual nature: an unforgiving uphill climb or a joyride of a descent, depending on your approach. Nestled in a network of trails, this 3-mile track offers cyclists a chance to test their limits in both climbing and descending.

Trail Overview

• Distance: 3 miles
• Level: Rated as Very Easy, but this may vary based on your chosen direction
• Route Type: Network
• Location: Laguna Beach, California

What Awaits You

Starting your ride from Wood Canyon? Prepare for an intense, straight-up climb that will question your love for cycling. However, if you take the route from the top of West Ridge through the neighborhood, you're in for an entirely different experience. The uphill battle via Wood Canyon using Lynx may be too brutal for most. In contrast, West Ridge offers a smoother climb, eventually leading you to Mathis Trail.

Coming Down Mathis

On reaching the top of West Ridge, you’ll pass Lynx on your left, followed by the more technical Rock-It. Continue through mild undulations until you encounter a short but decent incline. At its summit, a resting bench and stand mark the spot where you hang a left to start the adrenaline-filled descent down Mathis Trail. High-speed practice is the name of the game here, complete with multiple opportunities for solid airtime.

Key Features and Challenges

• Intense uphill climb or high-speed downhill based on the approach
• Several spots for airtime on the downhill
• Double track, watch out for ascending cyclists
• Connection to Car Wreck Trail

Expert Comments

Mathis Trail is not particularly technical but offers riders a chance to push their speed limits. There is an exhilarating bomb at the very end, perfect for adrenaline junkies. Once at the bottom, link up with Wood Canyon by taking a left and head back through the park. Keep in mind that this is a double track, so stay alert for people coming up as you fly down.

How to Get There

The trail is part of a network situated in Laguna Beach, California. The most popular access points are Wood Canyon for the steep uphill climb and West Ridge for a more relaxed ascent and thrilling descent.

Additional Tips

• For the less masochistic among us, avoid the ascent from Wood Canyon. It's a brutally steep climb that even seasoned cyclists find challenging.
• If you're new to high-speed downhill cycling, Mathis is an excellent place to practice before tackling more technical trails like Rock-It.

Conclusion

Mathis Trail in Laguna Beach offers a steep uphill and an exhilarating downhill, serving two completely different cycling experiences within a 3-mile stretch. Whether you’re looking to punish yourself with a steep climb or let loose on a high-speed descent, this trail has something for every cycling enthusiast.