Palomar Mountain

Cat. 1: Mile 18

Cat. 3: Mile 32 and 80

Cat. 4: Mile 12, 38, and 57

This ride starts in Temecula and descends into Pala, before leading east on Route 76. After Pauma Valley, the first part of the ascent to Palomar Mountain begins, followed by the second part on South Grade Road (photos, photos).

Some extra miles and climbing can be added via an optional out-and-back visit to the observatory, at 5,550 feet the highest point.

The ride then descends via East Grade Road towards Lake Henshaw, and returns back west on Route 76. The final climb leads up Rice Canyon and Rainbow Canyon, before a short downhill into Temecula. The ride passes through several Indian reservations, including Pechanga, Pala, Pauma, and La Jolla.