I did it!

I finally was able to ride my bike all the way up to the top of the San Clemente water tower. I had a few things that helped:
1) I kept the gears lower, even at the bottom where it's easier to ride the bike. Only 5% grade down there.
2) My chain did come off, about 1/2 way up, so I had to turn my bicycle over, and do a quick fix. Maybe a two minute break.
3) I made sure my tires were properly inflated ;)