Powder Canyon - Schabarum Loop

The Powder Canyon - Schabarum Loop Trail weaves through oak lined canyons and hilltop vistas of the Puente Hills Preserve on a multi use trail that sees hikers, cyclists and equestrians. 

The hardpacked dirt path meanders through the hilly contours of the area between La Habra Heights and Rowland Heights, taking mountain bikers through a rush of scenery ranging from shaded canyons bottoms to airy viewpoints often looking down on the hawks circling the sky above the landscape. Enjoy the short flat stretches along this ride, because most of the route is either a steep climb or a steep drop. 

Going from the Powder Canyon trailhead in a counter clockwise direction, the loop rises up through exposed shadeless landscape, climbing about 650 feet to a set of radio towers with panoramic views across the Orange County and Los Angeles basins. From here a rutted path drops sharply toward Peter F Schabarum Regional County Park, where there is additional parking, shade, drinking fountains and tables.

While the first climb is the longest, a second climb of 400' follows the Schabarum Extension Trail as it wraps around the hillside overlooking Fullerton Road before  a spur path descends back toward the trailhead and parking area.

The route is dry, with many sections without shade, making it pretty hot during the Summer. As a popular multi use path tucked up against a neighborhood, there are often other hikers, runners and dog walkers out on the paths, so cyclists should approach hills and turns cautiously. 

There are also numerous other paths and single track that can be followed to adjust the length or difficulty of your ride. 

Descents are steep, and can often be rutted, especially following wet weather.

There is no fee for parking, however park parking areas are gated and locked in the evenings. Overall, these trails cross a higher elevation landscape that feels like a natural oasis in the middle of an urban metropolis. Visitors should be prepared for some steep uphill grinds but some fast, somewhat technical downhill.