Arroyo Seco bicycle path, cycling route in California, USA

The Arroyo Seco bicycle path is a trail for cyclists and pedestrians that runs along a river channel in Northeast Los Angeles, stretching about two miles through different neighborhoods. The path has an asphalt surface, remains mostly flat and easy to navigate, passes under several bridges, and connects multiple parks including Hermon Park and Sycamore Grove Park.

The path follows the Arroyo Seco flood control channel, built by the Los Angeles County Flood Control District after the devastating floods of 1938. The channel confined the seasonal river in concrete, and the Class I bike path was later laid along its bed and upper bank. It is maintained by the City of Los Angeles, while the channel itself is maintained by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works.

The path ends at the Arroyo Seco Stables, where only pedestrians and horses may continue north; cyclists instead follow the Kenneth Newell Bikeway along Arroyo Boulevard toward the Rose Bowl Stadium. Near the southern terminus stand the Lummis House and the open-air Heritage Square Museum.

Access the path from several entry points including Hermon Park, Sycamore Grove Park, and the Montecito Heights Community Center, with parking available near each location. After heavy rain or dam water release, the path closes temporarily for safety, so sunny days are best for your visit.

The path's southwest quarter-mile runs along the top of the channel behind chain-link fencing before dropping into the flood control bed. Because the channel hydraulics dictate the grade, the route climbs slightly and steadily in the upstream, northeast direction, with steeper pitches beneath some overpasses.