United StatesCalifornia Zuma Ridge
Zuma Ridge Bike Climb - PJAMM Cycling

15.1
PDI
4.3 mi
DISTANCE
2,051 ft
GAINED
8.7 %
AVG. GRADE
FULL CLIMB STATS
MORE

Page Contributor(s): Joel Blatt, Bend Oregon

INTRO

Zuma Ridge is the top gravel climb in the Malibu area.  The recommended full route (Strava) is Encinal Canyon descent to PCH then left for a few miles alone the ocean. You take a left and start climbing, initially on pavement and then becomes dirt/gravel. The dotted stuff shows the gravel climb, which is great surface. The trail is easy to follow, except for one point of confusion where you think it might go left up to the power lines, but actually keeps straight and slightly descends for a moment.  The showcase climb is 4+ miles and 9% 

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MEMBER RATING

Difficulty: Extreme
5
Road
5
Traffic
5
Scenery

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Nov 23, 2023
difficulty: Extreme
scenery: 5
traffic: 5
road: 5
Nov 23, 2023
scenery: 5
traffic: 5
road: 5
Simply sublime.
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CLIMB SUMMARY

Cycling Zuma Ridge

Ride 4.3 miles gaining 2,051’ at 8.7% average grade (10.1% climb only).

The Zuma Ridge Climb is undeniably the premier gravel ascent in the picturesque landscape of Malibu. This challenging climb commences at the emd of Busch Drive, where cyclists venture beyond the gate, embarking on a journey northward along the Zuma Ridge Motorway, a rugged fire road nestled within the Santa Monica Mountains.

Approximately 53% of this ascent, spanning 2.3 miles, presents a relentless gradient averaging between 10-15%. Notably, at the 4.7-mile mark, riders encounter a brief but exhilarating 4/10-mile descent of 4.6%.

Aside from the physical demands, the Zuma Ridge Climb rewards cyclists with breathtaking vistas that encompass the surrounding mountainous terrain and the expansive Pacific Ocean. While the steepest half-mile stretch averages a formidable 12.2% incline, the overall climb maintains a consistent gradient, save for the brief .4-mile descent previously mentioned.

The climb ends at Buzzard’s Roost Ranch.

Cabin on the 10 acre Buzzard’s Roost property.

For those seeking the ultimate Zuma Ridge experience, an 18.7-mile loop awaits, boasting an elevation gain of 2,980 feet. The Zuma Ridge climb becomes the focal point of this route, commencing at mile 12.8 for those embarking from the intersection of Encinal Canyon Road and Zuma Ridge Motorway, as illustrated in the Zuma Ridge Strava route. This challenging loop promises a memorable cycling adventure through the heart of Malibu's stunning terrain.

Map, GPZ and Profile created on the PJAMM Cycling Route Planning Tool.