The best cycling routes in Contra Costa County
4.7
(269)
3,830
riders
243
rides
Touring cycling in Contra Costa County offers diverse landscapes, extensive trail networks, and numerous natural attractions. The region features a blend of urban centers and natural beauty, characterized by lush greenery and golden, rolling hills. Prominent features include the challenging ascents of Mount Diablo and the tranquil waterways of the San Joaquin River Delta. The county also provides an extensive network of multi-use trails and regional parks with dedicated cycling paths.
Best touring cycling routes in Contra Costa County
- The…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
5.0
(5)
93
riders
37.9km
02:38
680m
600m
Embark on the Three Bears Loop, a difficult touring cycling route spanning 23.5 miles (37.9 km) with a significant elevation gain of 2219 feet (676 metres). You can expect to…
6
riders
16.8km
02:06
1,000m
50m
Embark on a challenging touring bicycle ride up Mount Diablo via North Gate and Summit Roads. This difficult route spans 10.4 miles (16.8 km) and demands a significant effort, with…
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5.0
(5)
98
riders
53.2km
03:34
760m
760m
Embark on a challenging touring bicycle adventure with the Mount Diablo and Iron Horse Trail Loop, a route that spans 33.1 miles (53.2 km) and features a significant 2481 feet…
4.3
(7)
73
riders
56.7km
03:38
620m
620m
Embark on the Carquinez Strait loop, a challenging touring bicycle route that spans 35.2 miles (56.7 km) and includes a significant 2019 feet (615 metres) of elevation gain. This ride,…
4.2
(10)
71
riders
44.3km
03:08
520m
520m
Embark on the San Francisco Bay & Carquinez Strait Trails loop, a difficult touring bicycle route that challenges you with 27.5 miles (44.3 km) and a significant 1698 feet (517…
4.7
(11)
44
riders
28.0km
01:45
270m
270m
Embark on the Lamorinda Trail Loop for a moderate touring bicycle ride spanning 17.4 miles (28.0 km). You'll experience a diverse landscape, primarily on paved surfaces and dedicated bikeways, with…
4.6
(13)
39
riders
31.1km
01:56
300m
290m
Embark on the Lamorinda Trail Loop, a moderate touring bicycle route that guides you through the scenic East Bay cities of Lafayette, Moraga, and Orinda. This 19.3-mile (31.1 km) journey,…
4.7
(7)
43
riders
20.9km
01:27
400m
390m
Embark on the East Ridge and West Ridge Loop, a moderate touring cycling route spanning 13.0 miles (20.9 km) with an elevation gain of 1300 feet (396 metres). This loop…
5.0
(2)
36
riders
64.0km
04:16
920m
920m
The Briones Reservoir area offers a demanding touring cycling experience, winding through the diverse landscapes of Briones Regional Park. While the immediate reservoir loop is reserved for hikers, this route…
5.0
(2)
28
riders
46.3km
03:03
650m
650m
The Historic Crockett loop offers a challenging touring bicycle ride through diverse terrain, rewarding you with expansive views of San Pablo Bay, the Delta, Mount Tamalpais, and Mount Diablo. This…
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Popular around Contra Costa County
Tips from the Community
In this area of the Sobrante Ridge Regional Preserve, visitors can find the Sobrante Ridge Trailhead. The preserve is 277 acres in size and is a parkland that preserves the habitat of the extremely rare Alameda manzanita. It is an important home to indigenous plants and animals in this area.
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Mount Diablo, is the Bay Area second-highest peak at 1173m (3849ft). The challenging climb features constantly fluctuating gradients averaging 8%, with tough sections up to 18% and a brutal 23% finish in the last 200m. The equally demanding descent requires good bike handling due to tight corners, potholes, and strong winds. The road to the top is open daily from 8 AM till sunset.
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The Museum of the San Ramon Valley was established in 1985 and sits in a restored 1891 Southern Pacific Railroad Depot with the Victorian-era “Combination Station No. 22” listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Official Visitor Information Center offers maps, guides, and knowledgeable staff, along with free parking and restrooms located in the caboose.
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The Benicia-Martinez Bridge Trail offers a unique ride across the Carquinez Strait with dedicated bike and pedestrian lanes. It’s a smooth, paved path with great views of the water and passing ships. A solid link between Benicia and Martinez, especially if you’re piecing together a longer Bay Area loop.
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The Iron Horse Trail is a 32-mile multi-path that connects the towns of Concord and Pleasanton. It follows the route of the abandoned Southern Pacific Railroad. With its access to schools, business centers, and parks, the path is popular with commuters and recreationalists.
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The Lafayette-Moraga Regional Trail is a 7.65-mile paved path for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Paralleling St. Mary's Road, the trail connects Lafayette and Moraga, passing through the scenic Moraga Valley. It is a historical route for mule and steam trains transporting redwood lumber. The trail starts at Olympic Boulevard in Lafayette and ends at the Valle Vista staging area near the San Leandro Reservoir. Along the way, it links to schools, parks, and commercial areas and is maintained by the East Bay Regional Park District.
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The Lamorinda Trail Loop has an interesting beginning. Initially the three communities of Lafayette, Orinda and Moraga convened a committee to look at connecting themselves via trails. However, upon looking closely at existing trails they discovered a trail route already existed through the three cities and they simply need to raise funds for signage along the route. After placing the signs designating the route the trail was officially opened on August 10th, 2006.
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This stretch of the trail crosses the Carquinez Bridge, where a dedicated bike path runs alongside the road. From here, you can enjoy stunning views of the bay, with San Pablo Bay on one side and the Carquinez Strait on the other.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Contra Costa County?
Contra Costa County offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 250 options available. These routes cater to all skill levels, including 80 easy, 101 moderate, and 74 difficult trails.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Contra Costa County?
The county features diverse terrain, from the challenging ascents of Mount Diablo to the tranquil waterways of the San Joaquin River Delta. You'll find a dynamic blend of urban centers and serene natural beauty, characterized by lush greenery and golden, rolling hills, offering both gentle slopes and more demanding climbs.
Are there any challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists?
Yes, Contra Costa County is home to several challenging routes. For a significant climb, consider the Mount Diablo via North Gate and Summit Roads, which offers a difficult ascent to the summit. Another demanding option is the Briones Reservoir loop, known for its substantial elevation changes over a longer distance.
Are there any easy or family-friendly touring cycling routes?
Absolutely. For easier, flatter rides suitable for families, the region boasts extensive multi-use trails. The Contra Costa Canal Trail and the Iron Horse Regional Trail are excellent choices, offering paved, car-free paths that connect various cities and parks. These trails are ideal for a relaxed cycling experience.
What scenic loop routes are available for touring cyclists?
Contra Costa County offers several scenic loop routes. The Carquinez Strait loop provides beautiful marine views and bridge crossings. For a route combining mountainous terrain with a paved rail-trail, the Mount Diablo and Iron Horse Trail Loop is a popular choice. Another option is the Lamorinda Trail Loop, offering a moderate ride through varied landscapes.
What natural landmarks or attractions can I see along the touring cycling routes?
You can encounter several notable natural features. The majestic Mount Diablo Summit offers panoramic views. The Point Isabel Regional Shoreline Park provides scenic bay views and opportunities for wildlife observation. Other points of interest include Eagle Peak and the Devil's Pulpit.
Are there any routes that offer water views?
Yes, several routes provide beautiful water views. The eastern parts of the county border the San Joaquin River Delta, offering tranquil waterways. The Carquinez Strait also features routes with marine vistas. Additionally, areas like Point Pinole Regional Shoreline and Lafayette Reservoir offer scenic cycling paths alongside water bodies.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Contra Costa County?
The touring cycling routes in Contra Costa County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 270 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from challenging mountain climbs to flat, scenic trails, and the extensive network of well-maintained paths that cater to various preferences.
Can I find routes that combine urban and natural scenery?
Yes, Contra Costa County is known for its blend of urban centers and natural beauty. Many routes, especially those utilizing the extensive multi-use trail network like the Iron Horse Trail, pass through both developed areas and serene natural landscapes, offering a varied cycling experience.
Are there any routes that are particularly good for spotting wildlife or enjoying nature?
For nature and wildlife observation, Point Pinole Regional Shoreline is an excellent choice, featuring sandy shores, meadows, and marshes, and is home to over 100 species of birds. Briones Regional Park also offers trails with opportunities to see diverse wildlife amidst its rolling hills.
What is a good route for a longer, more challenging day out?
For a longer and challenging ride, consider the Three Bears Loop. This 23.5-mile route features varied terrain with significant elevation changes, providing a rewarding experience for those looking for a substantial touring cycling adventure.
Are there any routes that explore historical areas?
Yes, the Historic Crockett loop offers a touring cycling experience that takes you through an area rich in history, allowing you to explore the charm of this historic town and its surroundings.
Most popular routes in Contra Costa County
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