The best cycling routes in Los Angeles County

The Mount Baldy Cycling Route presents a difficult touring bicycle challenge, ascending 4783 feet (1458 metres) over 13.0 miles (20.9 km). This demanding climb is estimated to take 2 hours and 47 minutes. As you pedal, you will experience expansive views of the San Gabriel Mountains and immense canyons, with the landscape changing as you gain elevation towards the summit.

When planning your ride, be aware that the initial eight miles of the direct Mt. Baldy Road approach can have significant, fast-moving traffic due to an older road surface. Conditions vary greatly from the heat at lower elevations to cooler temperatures at the summit, so dressing in layers is advisable. Some sections, particularly as you approach "the Notch," involve unpaved gravel that can be difficult for road bikes.

This route is renowned as one of Southern California's most iconic and demanding cycling climbs. Reaching the summit of Mount Baldy, the highest point in the San Gabriel Mountains, offers a unique sense of accomplishment. You will be rewarded with sweeping views of wooded peaks and the Los Angeles coastal plains, making this a notable achievement for touring cyclists in the region.

Experience the quintessential Southern California coast on a touring bicycle, following a paved path that stretches for 30.5 miles (49.1 km). This moderate route offers continuous ocean views, taking you past the lively Santa Monica Pier and the vibrant energy of Venice Beach. You will gain 599 feet (183 metres) in elevation over an estimated 2 hours and 50 minutes, making it a rewarding ride for most cyclists. Feel the ocean breeze as you pedal, enjoying the unique atmosphere of each coastal community.

Given its popularity, especially on weekends, you should expect significant pedestrian and cyclist traffic along the path. Areas like Venice Beach can be particularly busy, so be prepared to slow down and navigate carefully. If you do not have your own bike, rentals are readily available near the Santa Monica Pier and at various points along the route, making access easy. Consider an early morning start to enjoy fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.

This route is part of the longer Marvin Braude Bike Trail, offering a comprehensive tour of the iconic Los Angeles coastline. As you approach Marina del Rey, you will encounter the world's largest man-made small craft harbor, filled with countless boats and yachts. The trail provides a unique perspective on these famous coastal landmarks, connecting them seamlessly for a memorable touring cycling experience.

Embark on a moderate touring bicycle adventure through the Griffith Park and Los Angeles River Loop, covering 26.3 miles (42.4 km) with an elevation gain of 1290 feet (393 metres). This route offers a diverse experience, blending urban riverfront paths with the expansive parkland of Griffith Park. You will spend about 2 hours and 39 minutes cycling, transitioning from smooth asphalt along the Los Angeles River, where you might spot various bird species, to the chaparral-covered hills within Griffith Park. As you climb, look forward to panoramic views of downtown Los Angeles and the iconic Hollywood Sign from spots like Cathy's Corner. The terrain shifts to paved roads and some fire roads here, so be ready for varied surfaces.

When planning your visit, be aware that the terrain within Griffith Park can include potholes or gravel on some paved and fire roads. While the river path is generally flat, expect significant climbs if you venture into the higher elevations of Griffith Park. Always pay attention to signage, as some park trails are designated for hiking or equestrian use only. This ensures you stay on appropriate paths for touring cycling.

This route stands out by combining the revitalized riparian habitats along the Los Angeles River with the vast recreational opportunities of Griffith Park. The Glendale Narrows section of the river trail is particularly notable for its diverse bird species, offering a unique natural encounter within an urban setting. The shift from riverfront to the expansive, hilly parkland provides a dynamic and engaging cycling experience, showcasing different facets of Los Angeles's outdoor spaces.

Embark on the Los Angeles River Greenway and Griffith Park Loop, a touring cycling route that offers a unique blend of urban exploration and natural beauty. This moderate ride covers 20.4 miles (32.8 km) and includes a total elevation gain of 651 feet (198 metres), typically taking around 1 hour and 57 minutes to complete. You will experience the revitalized Los Angeles River Greenway with its public art and riparian habitats, before transitioning into Griffith Park where you can enjoy panoramic vistas of the city and iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory.

When planning your visit, be aware that the Los Angeles River Greenway section features mostly flat, paved surfaces, making for a smooth ride. However, as you enter Griffith Park, the terrain becomes more challenging with significant elevation changes. While most of the cycling within Griffith Park is on paved roads, you might encounter some rough patches, potholes, or gravel in certain areas. Remember that cycling on dirt trails inside Griffith Park is generally not permitted.

This route stands out for its seamless integration of two distinct Los Angeles environments. The journey along the river showcases ongoing urban greening efforts, particularly in areas like the Glendale Narrows, highlighting diverse ecosystems within the city. Once in Griffith Park, you will pass by notable structures such as the Baum Bicycle Bridge, adding an architectural point of interest to your ride through one of the city's largest urban parks.

Prepare for a challenging touring cycling experience on the Griffith Park and LA River Bike Loop. This difficult route covers 27.4 miles (44.1 km) and involves a substantial climb of 1718 feet (524 metres), taking around 2 hours and 50 minutes to complete. You will begin on urban riverside paths along the Los Angeles River, where you might spot birdlife in the Glendale Narrows, before transitioning into the vast, wild parkland of Griffith Park. The trail leads you through tree-lined routes and past iconic landmarks like the Griffith Observatory, offering sweeping panoramic views of Los Angeles.

When planning your ride, be aware that while the LA River Path offers generally flat sections, some parts may have bumps or uneven surfaces. Safety concerns have been noted on the southern stretches of the river path, so it is wise to check current conditions and consider the northern end near Griffith Park, which is typically safer. If you do not have your own bicycle, rentals are available within Griffith Park.

This loop provides a diverse cycling adventure, seamlessly blending the urban landscape of the revitalized river with the natural beauty and challenging ascents of the park. The dramatic shift in scenery from the paved river path to the wild parkland makes this route notable in the region, offering both a workout and a chance to explore different facets of the city's outdoor environment.

Embark on the Palos Verdes Drive Loop, a challenging touring cycling route that spans 23.4 miles (37.7 km) with a significant elevation gain of 1645 feet (501 metres). This ride typically takes about 2 hours and 25 minutes to complete, offering a demanding yet rewarding experience. As you cycle, you'll encounter a diverse landscape, from the opulent mansions of Rancho Palos Verdes to the active ports of San Pedro and Long Beach. The route is famous for its incredible ocean vistas, especially along Palos Verdes Drive South, where the Pacific stretches out before you. Prepare for a particularly challenging section on Palos Verdes Drive East, known for its steep switchbacks, before the route winds through quieter residential areas. The entire loop is predominantly paved, providing a smooth surface for your ride.

When planning your touring cycling adventure on the Palos Verdes Drive Loop, consider starting your ride on a weekend to avoid heavy industrial truck traffic, particularly if you are approaching from areas like Anaheim Street. Connecting to the Palos Verdes Peninsula can be tricky due to limited bike lanes in some sections. The loop itself is predominantly paved and offers flexibility; you can begin your journey from any point along the route and choose to ride it in either direction. This adaptability allows you to tailor the experience to your preference and access points.

This route is a local favorite for its continuous coastal panoramas, providing views that extend from the luxurious estates of Rancho Palos Verdes all the way to the bustling shipping activity in the ports of San Pedro and Long Beach. During specific seasons, you might even have the opportunity to spot whales migrating offshore, adding a unique wildlife element to your ride. The Palos Verdes Drive Loop stands out as a premier cycling destination, celebrated for its blend of scenic beauty and physical challenge, making it a notable experience in the region.

Embark on the San Francisquito Creek Trail & Santa Clara River Trail loop for a touring bicycle ride that blends urban convenience with natural beauty. This moderate route covers 25.7 miles (41.4 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 539 feet (164 metres), typically taking about 2 hours and 23 minutes to complete. You will cycle along paved paths, enjoying planted greenery and picturesque river views, with a notable highlight being the crossing of the vintage 1898 Iron Horse Bridge.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the multi-use trails are well-maintained and easily accessible. You will find parking readily available at various points along the route, including West Creek Park, which also provides convenient restrooms and water. While public restrooms might not be found at every turn, the key access points offer good facilities to start and end your journey.

This loop stands out for its unique ability to create an urban oasis within Santa Clarita, offering a refreshing escape where you can connect with nature. The combination of the historic Iron Horse Bridge and the serene Santa Clara River views makes it a distinctive experience, allowing you to potentially spot local wildlife amidst the city's edge.

Embark on a touring bicycle adventure along the Coastal, Ballona Creek & Expo Path Loop, a moderate 26.6 miles (42.7 km) route that offers a unique blend of Los Angeles' urban and natural scenery. You will gain 328 feet (100 metres) in elevation over an estimated 2 hours and 26 minutes of riding. The journey takes you from cityscapes to the tranquil Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve, where you might spot various bird species. Further along, the Marvin Braude Bike Trail opens up to expansive ocean views as you pedal past beaches like Playa del Rey, enjoying a smooth ride free from traffic lights and cars.

When planning your touring bicycle trip, be aware that the Ballona Creek section of the loop offers little shade, so sun protection is essential, especially on warmer days. You may also encounter headwinds as you ride towards the beach, which can add to the challenge. Access to restrooms and water fountains can be limited in certain areas, so it is wise to carry extra water and plan your stops. Starting early in the morning can help you avoid the midday sun and potential crowds.

This loop is notable for its seamless transition from bustling urban environments to serene natural coastal beauty. It provides a fantastic opportunity to experience the diverse ecosystems of Los Angeles, from the protected Ballona Wetlands to the expansive Pacific coastline. The route connects several key pathways, offering a continuous and engaging touring bicycle experience that highlights both the city's infrastructure and its natural preserves.