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LaRio, Upper Rio Hondo and Santa Anita Wash

March 24, 2011
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A northern extension of the LaRio bike path, this path is roughly demarcated by the Whittier Narrows Recreation Area at Rush Street. The route saunters for a few miles through smooth, gently sloping parkland, then straightens to make a four-mile beeline through Rosemead to Peck Road Park in El Monte. On the way you see the river make a dramatic transition from a concrete channel into the natural-bottomed narrows.

Heading north, where a series of washes feed into the river, you'll pass the El Monte Airport, a great place to rest and watch the planes as they take off and land. When you arrive at Peck Road Park you can explore the pathways, or cross the bike path that connects to the mile-long Santa Anita bike path spur. When it dead-ends, turn back.

This route stays close to parks with basic amenities like restrooms and picnic areas. It also crosses streets that connect to Santa Anita Avenue which offer numerous dining options.

STARTING POINT

The path begins in Peck Road Park

DIRECTIONS TO THE START

BIKE: There is no defined bike path to the start point at Peck Road Park, but you'll find many access points along the pathway from El Monte to Lynwood.

TRANSIT: Take bus 492 northeast up Santa Anita Boulevard then right on Live Oak Avenue. Exit at Peck Road.

CAR: Head east on Interstate 10. Exit at Peck Road and make a left to head north. Make a left after 2.5 miles into Peck Road Park.

STARTING POINT

Peck Road Park public lot.

ENDING POINT

Legg Lake, the parking lot near the Santa Anita Avenue/Lexington Gallatin North bus station. Also enjoy taking a loop around the lake.

ENDING POINT PARKING

Off Santa Anita near the Santa Anita Avenue/Lexington Gallatin North bus station.

NEARBY ROUTES

Continuing southwest on the LaRio trail will take you onto the Lower Rio Hondo Bike Path.

NEARBY PARKS

Whittier Narrows Recreational Area

Located in the City of El Monte, this 1,492 acre facility fronts the Rio Hondo tributary and is one of L.A. County's largest and most popular recreational areas. It features a range of activities, including BMX biking, riding along equestrian trails, rifle ranges, and fishing in Legg Lake.

Legg Lake

Snake along the winding paths around the lake and through this handsomely-designed park by foot or by pedal-powered vehicle of choice (no cars allowed). This is also a great starting spot for long bike rides on the LaRio bike paths that lead both north and south, and travel along smooth, bona fide paved paths. Parking and restrooms are available. Upper San Gabriel Valley, CA 91733

Bosque Del Rio Hondo

A 5-acre park located at 9300 San Gabriel Blvd in South El Monte, lies within the Whittier Narrows Recreation Area. It offers year-round trail access to one of the remaining natural stream beds of the Rio Hondo, as well as to seasonal creeks. Visitors will find picnic areas, access to bike paths and equestrian trails, parking facilities, and restroom facilities. The park design visually integrates the natural riverfront with the adjacent land and provides a riverfront setting for those who want to simply walk or relax near the river. There is plenty of paid parking as well as safe, free spots on neighboring Rush and Lorna Streets.

Whittier Narrows Recreational Area

Located in the City of El Monte, this 1,492 acre facility fronts the Rio Hondo tributary and is one of L.A. County's largest and most popular recreational areas. It features a range of activities, including BMX biking, riding along equestrian trails, rifle ranges, and fishing in Legg Lake.

Peck Road Park

This park features fishing, walking or bike with an amazing view of the lake. The nearby northern extension of the LaRio Bike Path runs along the northwestern edge of the park.

SIGHTSEEING

The parks and lake are the main attraction. The El Monte Airport is also worth a visit.

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