The best cycling routes around Salinas

Salinas offers a diverse selection of over 20 touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, including easy, moderate, and difficult options.

Yes, Salinas has several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners. One such option is the Fort Ord ⛰️🚵 MTB trailhead – Trail 61 loop from Schoonover Drive / White Court, which is a 8.2 miles (13.3 km) trail with minimal elevation gain, making it a great starting point.

For those seeking a challenge, the Salinas area, particularly around Fort Ord, offers difficult routes with significant elevation changes. A notable option is the Mudhen Lake – Mudhen Lake loop from Schoonover / Patch Court, a 31.1 miles (50.1 km) route with over 900 meters of ascent.

Longer routes are available for endurance cyclists. The Mudhen Lake – Mudhen Lake loop from Schoonover / Patch Court spans over 31 miles (50 km), while the Trail 49 – Mudhen Lake loop from General Parking covers 23.4 miles (37.6 km), both offering extensive rides through varied terrain.

Many touring cycling routes in Salinas are designed as loops, providing a convenient way to start and end your ride at the same point. Examples include the View from Trail 25 loop from Trailer Parking and the Bike loop from Portola / Davenrich (2nd).

Routes around Fort Ord often provide expansive views of rolling hills and open landscapes. The View from Trail 25 loop from Trailer Parking is particularly noted for its scenic vistas.

Several designated parking areas and trailheads serve the cycling routes in Salinas, especially within the Fort Ord area. You can find parking at locations like the Gigling/8th St bike staging area or near the Fort Ord ⛰️🚵 MTB trailhead.

While many routes in Salinas feature varied terrain, some easier, flatter sections can be suitable for families. Look for routes designated as 'easy' or those with paved sections, particularly within the Fort Ord National Monument, which offers a network of trails.

The Salinas area generally enjoys mild weather, making touring cycling pleasant for much of the year. Spring and fall often offer the most comfortable temperatures, with less chance of extreme heat or rain, providing ideal conditions for exploring the region's diverse landscapes.

Yes, the open landscapes and natural areas around Salinas, especially within Fort Ord National Monument, are home to various wildlife. Cyclists might encounter deer, coyotes, and a variety of bird species, particularly during quieter times of day.

While cycling, you can explore various points of interest within the Fort Ord National Monument. Highlights include the Trail 41 (Goat Trail) and the Watkins Road area, which offer scenic views and access to the extensive trail network.

The touring cycling routes in Salinas are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.5 stars. Over 270 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the area, often praising the varied terrain and the extensive trail systems, particularly around Fort Ord.