Ride it safe. Ortega Highway is narrow, busy and unforgiving, and motorcyclists make up a large share of crash victims here. Stay in your lane on blind curves, watch for gravel and commuters, and check road conditions before you go. Read our safety page for crash data and training resources.
The route, west to east
Begin at the I-5 in San Juan Capistrano and head east toward the hills (watch your speed). The road is wider here, with some cross traffic from local businesses.
After the passing lane and bridge, the road narrows and begins to twist.
The twisting continues up past the candy store and on to a second passing lane.
Just past the big curves and the second passing lane, you'll reach El Cariso, long home to the Hell's Kitchen bar, which is reported to have moved into Lake Elsinore.
From there it's just about all downhill. Stop at the Lookout Roadhouse for great views of the lake.