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Routes: Destination: San Diego / Orange County Line?

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    Okay, so I'd like to challenge myself by going up to the Orange Co. line.

    I'm familiar with bike routes/paths from the San Diego Airport area up to Carlsbad, along the coast, though I am not sure about what is best once you get to the Pendleton/Oceanside boundary.

    I was on Google maps and requested a route under the bike category/icon and it actually shows MERGING ONTO I-5!

    Any help on best route along the coast from Carlsbad up to the Orange Co. line would be great.
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      CommentAuthorSigurd
    • CommentTimeAug 3rd 2017
     
    Christianitos Rd at I-5 in San Clemente is on the OC border, so here you go for the Camp Pendleton route. Google Maps suggests the I-5 shoulder because it is permitted (on an off depending upon what seems like endless freeway construction) but hardly pleasant.

    Riding through CP now requires applying for a permit, as well as a US Government issued ID to enter.
  3.  
    Sigurd:Christianitos Rd at I-5 in San Clemente is on the OC border, so here you go for the Camp Pendleton route. Google Maps suggests the I-5 shoulder because it is permitted (on an off depending upon what seems like endless freeway construction) but hardly pleasant.

    Riding through CP now requires applying for a permit, as well as a US Government issued ID to enter.


    MANY thanks!
    • CommentAuthoreaton
    • CommentTimeAug 6th 2017 edited
     
    Riding through the base is nicer than the freeway. Pre-register, bring ID and wear a helmet.

    When you leave Oceanside Harbor, cross underneath I5 then be careful - you have to cross 2 lanes that are the offramp lanes to the base from North I5. Once you're on the base, pass the hospital and shopping center and make a left at the 3rd light (1 mile past the gate) and go up a hill to Stuart Mesa.

    Follow this road for about 6-7 miles until it ends at a stop sign. Make a left, go up a little hill and you'll see the Las Pulgas gate.

    Exit the base and as soon as you go under the railroad tracks, turn right into a small parking lot and go through it. Go through the opening in the fence and continue. Straight 1/2 mile then veer left with the road and enter the tunnel. When you exit, turn right and follow the path until you come to another fence. Go through the opening and you'll be in a parking lot for the San Onofre campground. There are bathrooms and picnic tables if you want to rest. If you go to a bathroom and it's locked, try the next one; sometimes they only open some of them.

    If you continue, you'll exit the campground and be on the frontage road in front of the power plant. Keep going, down a dip then up a little hill, maybe 1/2 to 1 mile. At the top of the hill, look to your left across the street and you'll see an opening in the fence. go through this opening and turn right. Follow this path another mile or so and you'll end up at a street in San Clemente. If you go right, cross the freeway and there's a Carl's Jr.

    If you read this and wonder about going through openings in the fence, don't. This is the route that thousands of cyclists use. Also, my distances are approximate. I don't have a computer.
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      CommentAuthorPaul
    • CommentTimeAug 22nd 2017 edited
     
    I am firmly in the 5 camp. On brevets and other rides, when given the choice I take the 5. The construction is over.

    Be aware that the only death and/or serious injury that I'm aware of happened on the base, not the 5.

    FWIW - I think this is one of the least pleasing ways to get some distance in SD unless you have a coastal destination. Riding north and taking the Del Dios/Elfin loop or something of that nature will give you far less stop and go. Even taking the back way past Eaton's house, riding through Oceanside is a drag.
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      CommentAuthorSmorg
    • CommentTimeAug 23rd 2017
     
    Just dropping in an alternative way of getting to Camp P's gate from Oceanside Harbor without crossing the I-5 ramps.

    When you enter the harbor from the south on Harbor Dr, and come around the left hand bend, there is a narrow tunnel on the right side of the road - just before Joe's Crab Shack. Turn right into the tunnel, and you'll come out on a big hotel parking lot. Go thru it onto San Luis Rey Dr and then take a right at Monterey Dr. When you get to the Coast Hwy, hop onto the southbound sidewalk. You'll see a ramp going under on the right side of the sidewalk. It's a pedestrian underpass. I'm afraid it's a bit dark down there, smells bad (homeless folks hang there at night), and often has broken glass and other trash.... but it has no car. :o) You'll have to hike-a-bike up a set of concrete steps on the other side when you pop up on San Luis Rey Dr cul-de-sac. Take the first left (San Rafael Dr), and it will drop you off onto Vandergrift Blvd just in front of Camp P's gate.

    It's sort of round-about way, and there's the steps to hike the bike up... but I still quite prefer it to the Russian roulette that crossing the I-5 on/off ramps feels like every time!
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    Reminder from SDCBC.org - renew Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton bike pass.

    Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton
    Base Access:
    Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton has implemented policies that focus on access control procedure and ensure the protection of Active Duty personnel, residents and civilian employees. These policies are intended to help Marines accomplish their mission and keep families aboard Camp Pendleton safe, while allowing access to authorized personnel and sponsored visitors.
    Cyclists are allowed to transit North/South from the Las Pulgas gate to the Main gate (Stuart Mesa Rd to Vandergrift Blvd) and South/North from the Main gate to the Las Pulgas gate (Vandergrift Blvd to Stuart Mesa Rd).
    Video: Bike information begins at 3:20

    Camp Pendleton Bike Route Access Form
    The duration of this access will not exceed 365 days from the day access was granted.
    • CommentAuthorgottobike
    • CommentTimeJul 9th 2018 edited
     
    Old Knotty Buoy:Reminder from SDCBC.org - renew Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton bike pass.

    Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton
    Base Access:
    Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton has implemented policies that focus on access control procedure and ensure the protection of Active Duty personnel, residents and civilian employees. These policies are intended to help Marines accomplish their mission and keep families aboard Camp Pendleton safe, while allowing access to authorized personnel and sponsored visitors.
    Cyclists are allowed to transit North/South from the Las Pulgas gate to the Main gate (Stuart Mesa Rd to Vandergrift Blvd) and South/North from the Main gate to the Las Pulgas gate (Vandergrift Blvd to Stuart Mesa Rd).
    Video: Bike information begins at 3:20

    Camp Pendleton Bike Route Access Form
    The duration of this access will not exceed 365 days from the day access was granted.

    Times have changed...
    From Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton > Select Base Access
    • CommentAuthort.e.d
    • CommentTimeJul 10th 2018 edited
     
    I just called Pendleton. They said not only do you have to go through this process at the visitors center (south only), but you need to do it every 30 days... wow.

    Also, this is from the DBIDS page:

    Use of this U.S. Government (USG)-interest computer system constitutes consent for authorized monitoring at all times.

    This is a USG-interest computer system. This system and related equipment are intended for the communication, transmission, processing, and storage of official USG or other authorized information only. This USG-interest computer system is subject to monitoring at all times to ensure proper functioning of equipment and systems including security systems and devices, and to prevent, detect, and deter violations of statutes and security regulations and other unauthorized use of the system.
    Communications using, or data stored on, this system are not private, are subject to routine monitoring, interception, and search, and may be disclosed or used for any authorized purpose.
    If monitoring of this USG-interest computer system reveals possible evidence of violation of criminal statutes, this evidence and any other related information, including identification information about the user, may be provided to law enforcement officials. If monitoring of this USG-interest computer systems reveals violations of security regulations or other unauthorized use that information and other related information, including identification information about the user, may be used appropriate administrative or disciplinary action.
    Use of this USG interest computer system constitutes consent to authorized monitoring at all times.
    • CommentAuthorgottobike
    • CommentTimeJul 10th 2018
     
    Thanks for contacting Camp Pendleton and providing additional info, t.e.d.

    I've always enjoyed being able to ride through the Marine base and really appreciate the privilege.

    However, it is a military base and I respect their needs.

    And what cyclists have always really needed is a separated bike path along I-5 between San Onofre State Park and Oceanside.
  11.  
    On the side of being an advocate for cycle-tourists coming from the North... HOW DO THEY REPORT TO THE Camp Pendleton Visitor Center (Bldg 20255T), which is located by the MAIN GATE, first - before accessing the base? In this instance, they don't make any sense.
    • CommentAuthort.e.d
    • CommentTimeJul 11th 2018
     
    JayOtheMountains:On the side of being an advocate for cycle-tourists coming from the North... HOW DO THEY REPORT TO THE Camp Pendleton Visitor Center (Bldg 20255T), which is located by the MAIN GATE, first - before accessing the base? In this instance, they don't make any sense.


    That is a good question, which I forgot to ask. Apologies.
  13.  
    t.e.d:
    JayOtheMountains:On the side of being an advocate for cycle-tourists coming from the North... HOW DO THEY REPORT TO THE Camp Pendleton Visitor Center (Bldg 20255T), which is located by the MAIN GATE, first - before accessing the base? In this instance, they don't make any sense.


    That is a good question, which I forgot to ask. Apologies.

    No worries, Ted. Just trying to find out for folks coming in from the north. I have 4 friends independently at different areas along the coast coming down. Sucks that this is now a literal roadblock. Looks like they are going to be on the highway shoulder...
    • CommentAuthort.e.d
    • CommentTimeJul 16th 2018
     
    I've read a few more updates from different sources and I'm still not sure about southbound, but northbound will need to register with this program starting in October.

    Too bad we waste so much beautiful land on a military base.
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      CommentAuthorbikingbill
    • CommentTimeJul 19th 2018
     
    t.e.d:I've read a few more updates from different sources and I'm still not sure about southbound, but northbound will need to register with this program starting in October.

    Too bad we waste so much beautiful land on a military base.


    Well, it does stop the developers from filling it up with expensive homes and strip malls.
    • CommentAuthorallanorn
    • CommentTimeJul 22nd 2018 edited
     
    bikingbill:
    t.e.d:I've read a few more updates from different sources and I'm still not sure about southbound, but northbound will need to register with this program starting in October.

    Too bad we waste so much beautiful land on a military base.


    Well, it does stop the developers from filling it up with expensive homes and strip malls.


    I would also not be that thrilled to live close to a (decommissioning) nuclear power plant that close to the ocean either.

    Have we found out any more details? I wouldn't mind heading on a two-day ride from LA to San Diego around Labor Day weekend but that would put a serious crimp in plans. I-5 would be no bueno.
    • CommentAuthorbossvoss
    • CommentTimeJul 24th 2018
     
    7/18/18 email from SDCBC:

    Greetings Valuable SD Bike Coalition Members,

    IMPORTANT TRAVEL UPDATE!

    Beginning October 1, 2018, all cyclists who wish to access the cycling route at Camp Pendleton will be required to register with the new Department of Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) before they enter the base.

    On-line registration of the old system for recreational cyclists will end this Sunday, July 22, 2018! Cyclists who are currently accessing the base via the old system will be able to continue to do so until September 30th. We anticipate that the volume of passes issued in late September and early October will require long waits, so don't procrastinate.

    Location: Individuals will need to go to: Main/Vandegrift Boulevard Visitors Center located in BLDG 20255T adjacent to the Main Entrance

    Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:30am to 3:30pm

    Phone Number: 760-763-8435 for questions regarding base access

    Required to Bring: Acceptable identity source document such as a valid government issued photo ID (I.E. Real ID ACT compliant driver's license, state identification card or passport)

    Process: They will establish your identity, submit a criminal background check, and take your photograph and fingerprints.

    Additional Information: Bicycle passes will be valid for one year and will be restricted to bicycle access; any attempt to enter the base in a motor vehicle with a bike pass will be turned around. Recreational cyclists may not sponsor another adult cyclist. Adult cyclists may be accompanied by minors for whom they are directly responsible.

    No matter when you registered under the old system, that form of access to the base will end on September 30. After that date only a DBIDS bicycle pass holder will be allowed aboard the base.

    Thank you for your attention and taking action for this important travel change.

    Sincerely,

    Jennifer Hunt, Advocacy Coordinator
    • CommentAuthort.e.d
    • CommentTimeJul 25th 2018
     
    Do we have an answer yet on what will happen to southbound cyclists? Will they just be routed onto the freeway?
    • CommentAuthorbossvoss
    • CommentTimeJul 25th 2018
     
    My impression is that you will not get access the same day you apply (e.g. background checks might take some time). So I think whether going N or S, you need to go apply well before you plan to enter the base. This is just my guess, not based on any posted info.
    • CommentAuthorgottobike
    • CommentTimeJul 25th 2018
     
    Long answer:
    bossvoss:7/18/18 email from SDCBC:

    Greetings Valuable SD Bike Coalition Members,

    IMPORTANT TRAVEL UPDATE!

    Beginning October 1, 2018, all cyclists who wish to access the cycling route at Camp Pendleton will be required to register with the new Department of Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) before they enter the base.

    On-line registration of the old system for recreational cyclists will end this Sunday, July 22, 2018! Cyclists who are currently accessing the base via the old system will be able to continue to do so until September 30th. We anticipate that the volume of passes issued in late September and early October will require long waits, so don't procrastinate.

    Location: Individuals will need to go to: Main/Vandegrift Boulevard Visitors Center located in BLDG 20255T adjacent to the Main Entrance

    Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:30am to 3:30pm

    Phone Number: 760-763-8435 for questions regarding base access

    Required to Bring: Acceptable identity source document such as a valid government issued photo ID (I.E. Real ID ACT compliant driver's license, state identification card or passport)

    Process: They will establish your identity, submit a criminal background check, and take your photograph and fingerprints.

    Additional Information: Bicycle passes will be valid for one year and will be restricted to bicycle access; any attempt to enter the base in a motor vehicle with a bike pass will be turned around. Recreational cyclists may not sponsor another adult cyclist. Adult cyclists may be accompanied by minors for whom they are directly responsible.

    No matter when you registered under the old system, that form of access to the base will end on September 30. After that date only a DBIDS bicycle pass holder will be allowed aboard the base.

    Thank you for your attention and taking action for this important travel change.

    Sincerely,

    Jennifer Hunt, Advocacy Coordinator

    Short answer:
    NO
  21.  
    The issue I see with SB riders is that they will need to travel I-5 to the main gate to get their initial pass - as per the MCCP regulation. So, for our touring friends - or folks without cars- who we all should be advocating for, they get to ride on the freeway regardless. The workaround would be to skip the section and amtrak it... i guess.
    • CommentAuthort.e.d
    • CommentTimeJul 31st 2018
     
    Maybe I'll build up some good Karma if I get a free Saturday and drive up to the north gate and "ferry" 4 riders at a time down to Oside in my truck?
    • CommentAuthorgottobike
    • CommentTimeAug 1st 2018 edited
     
    t.e.d:Maybe I'll build up some good Karma if I get a free Saturday and drive up to the north gate and "ferry" 4 riders at a time down to Oside in my truck?

    Shuttling I-5 would be much better than riding I-5.

    The only solution I see to not being able to bicycle Camp Pendleton is to merge both north and south bound I-5 motorized traffic onto the east lanes and convert the west lane of the freeway to a bike path between Las Pulgas Road and Harbor Drive in Oceanside.

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