As the summer sun bakes Orange County many of our mountain-bike trails become less attractive. Heat and dust are the bane of summertime riders. Verdant canyons which may be attractively cool and green in the winter and spring, often swelter in the summer months. Direct sun creates temperature spikes below the ridge line. This is particularly true when riding near the coastline. Ocean breezes which fan the ridges don't flow into box canyons. Often the climbs out of these canyons are steep and exposed. Be prepared for a bit of sweat and sizzle.
If you can't stand the heat you may look for rides that offer plenty of tree cover. The Fullerton Loop has a great deal of shade and short climbing sections. It also passes through several city parks, so, if you get overheated, you can rest on the grass and recuperate. The Arroyo Trabuco and the Tijeras Creek trails are great hot day destinations as well - offering some of the shadiest riding in Orange County and stream crossings to boot. You will get wet on these rides, but who cares it's summer.
