To all those who have to deal with SMOG
Well, late this coming August, I'll be going out to Redlands (75 miles east of LA, next to the mountains) for College. Although the riding seemed amazing when I visited in February, I must say that I'm concerned about doing long rides given the smog levels during the months of September, August, April, and May. I've been fretting as of late about the issue, and so I have some questions to those who live in the area, or other areas effected by Smog.
I'm curious if smog settles into the valleys -- and thereby is less of an issue at higher altitudes. Would it be possible for me to take a short drive up a few thousand feet in elevation and out of areas with poor air? Or can smog even be an issue at high altitudes like 5,000 ft and above? Internet information I've found on smog has left me inconclusive on this issue. And also, If you live in the LA area, would you say that there are a lot of cyclists who ride in the afternoons anyway regardless of the smog?
I'd say I'm most curious about whether altitude effects smog levels or density.
I'd really appreciate any insight that anyone might have on this topic. Thanks.
- Maurizio