This wasn’t just a gravel ride, it was a full-on high-desert survival mission in the Angeles National Forest. We parked just off Angeles Forest Highway at Aliso Canyon, as the Forest Service locked the gate from 9AM–2PM. From there, we pedaled up to Mill Creek Fire Station, then climbed deeper into the backcountry via the rugged and unforgiving Pacifico Mountain Trail. The ascent was brutal with sharp, chunky gravel and scorching heat that peaked at 117.2°F. But the summit views made it worth every drop of sweat. After soaking in the altitude, we bombed back down to Angeles Forest Highway, picked up some serious speed, and connected to Upper Big Tujunga Canyon Road to loop back. Despite the road closures, we grinded out the final climb back to the car for a full circle. Well, one us us did. (WATCH TILL END)

📊 Ride Stats:

🔥 117.2°F peak temperature

⛰️ 4,000+ feet of climbing

🚴‍♂️ Just under 40 miles

🥵 Effort 20.7 Whoop Strain

This ride had it all: chunky climbs, brutal heat, big views, and serious gravel soul-searching. If you're looking to test your legs and lungs on a forgotten fire road with epic payoffs, Pacifico delivers.