Where does California State Route 39 start and end?

Okay, picture this: you're cruising along State Route 39 (SR 39), straddling the line between Orange and Los Angeles counties in California. This isn't just any road trip; it's a mountain adventure in the San Gabriel range, with switchbacks that'll keep you on your toes!

Starting from the Pacific Coast Highway (SR 1), this fully paved path winds for about 50 miles up to Islip Saddle on the Angeles Crest Highway. Now, here's the twist: the northern part, famously known as San Gabriel Canyon Road, has been closed since '78. Yep, you heard that right – closed!

Back in the day, SR 39 was meant to connect the coast with the mountains, even playing a role in "Fast and Furious: Tokyo Drift." But Mother Nature had other plans. Rockslides, mudslides, and plain ol' wear and tear led to parts of the highway being abandoned. A big rockslide in 2005 pretty much sealed the deal, shutting it down to regular traffic indefinitely.

So, can you drive it? Well, it's a mixed bag. Some sections are dirt, others eroded. You can hike or bike it, but be warned: major parts are washed out, especially on the west side of Mount Islip. And let's not forget the extreme snow, avalanches, and rockslides that can hit seasonally. It's passable for emergency vehicles, but those narrow dirt sections near the rockslide areas? Not exactly passenger-car friendly.

Despite all that, remnants of this once-busy road are still there, whispering stories of California's past. If you're up for a bit of exploration and a touch of history, this "Forbidden Highway" offers a unique, if slightly rugged, experience.