Stories of Discovery & Wonder

Rocky Peak Electric Mountain Bike Tour in the Santa Susana Mountains

Short, guided e-bike rides thread through Las Llamas Canyon and the Santa Susana ridges, offering easy access to wide views and optional single-track for those wanting more challenge. This two-hour experience balances beginner-friendly fire roads with the chance to test technical lines on premium electric mountain bikes.

Chatsworth, California•

2 hours

•By Adventure Collective•October 2025

The Experience

You push off from the trailhead with a whirr from the Specialized Kenevo — the canyon slopes open ahead, sandstone boulders punctuating the ridgeline and oak savannahs brushing the fire road like an impatient crowd. The e-bike’s motor lets you cover more ground, so the views arrive sooner: 360-degree panoramas of the Santa Susana ridges and the patchwork of Southern California valleys below.

Before You Go

Hydrate early and often

Carry a 1.5–2L hydration pack; bottled water is provided but you'll want continuous access while riding.

Use the optional single-track selectively

Switch to single-track only if you're comfortable with basic bike handling and confident in braking on loose surfaces.

Layer for temperature swings

Mornings can be cool and sunny slopes warm quickly—bring a lightweight wind layer you can stow on the bike.

Protect exposed skin

Chaparral and sandstone reflect sun—sunscreen and eye protection reduce glare and prevent sunburn.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

•Short spur overlooks with exposed sandstone slabs for unobstructed valley views
•Small oak-lined side gullies that hold morning shade and wildflowers in spring

Wildlife

•Red-tailed hawk
•Western fence lizard

Conservation Note

Stay on designated roads and trails to limit erosion; pack out all trash and minimize vegetation trampling—these semi-arid slopes recover slowly from disturbance.

The Rocky Peak and Santa Susana area was a travel and trade corridor for Indigenous groups and later used as a wagon route and ranchland during California's 19th century expansion.

What to Bring

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Hydration pack (1.5–2L)Essential

Keeps fluids accessible during sustained climbs and warm-weather rides.

✓

Sturdy trail shoes or flat pedal shoesEssential

Provide grip and control on pedals and when hiking sections on loose rock.

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Lightweight wind layer

Blocks cool morning winds on ridge climbs and stows easily when warm.

✓

Sunscreen and UV-blocking sunglassesEssential

Protect skin and eyes from intense Southern California sun and reflected glare.

Common Questions

Do I need prior mountain biking experience?

No prior experience required; the main route is on smooth fire roads, but optional single-track should only be attempted if you have basic bike-handling skills.

Is bike and protective gear included?

Yes — premium e-mountain bikes and basic protective gear (knee/elbow pads, gloves, eyewear) are provided.

What is the minimum age or height requirement?

Age and sizing questions are asked at booking; check with the operator, but most tours require participants to meet bike size and minimum age limits for safety.

How does electric assist affect the ride?

Assist helps you maintain speed on climbs and extend range, but riders still need to manage gears, brakes, and line choice on descents and technical sections.