The best cycling routes around Bell Gardens
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Touring cycling around Bell Gardens is primarily situated within an urban and suburban landscape, characterized by relatively flat terrain and established park systems. The region features a network of paved paths and dedicated greenways, including the Los Angeles River Trail and the San Gabriel River Trail. These routes offer accessible cycling opportunities, blending urban accessibility with natural river views and park areas. The area provides a strategic connection between these long-distance bikeways, allowing for varied and extended cycling experiences.
Best touring cycling routes around Bell Gardens
- The most popular touring cycling route is Los Angeles and San Gabriel Rivers Trail Loop, a 33.3 miles (53.6 km) trail that takes 3 hours 6 minutes to complete. This route connects two major river trail systems, offering diverse scenery.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is San Gabriel River Loop, a moderate 29.8 miles (47.9 km) path. This route features mostly paved surfaces suitable for all skill levels, winding along the San Gabriel River.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Los Angeles River Loop, a 25.3 miles (40.7 km) trail leading through urban greenways along the Los Angeles River, often completed in about 2 hours 21 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Bell Gardens is defined by urban greenways, river trails, and paved paths, offering a network of routes for various abilities.
- The routes in Bell Gardens are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 50 reviews. More than 400 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Bell Gardens's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
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53.6km
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Embark on a moderate touring cycling adventure along the Los Angeles and San Gabriel Rivers Trail Loop, a 33.3 miles (53.6 km) route that offers a unique blend of urban and natural scenery. You will gain 211 feet (64 metres) in elevation over approximately 3 hours and 5 minutes of riding. As you pedal, you'll see the distant San Gabriel Mountains to the north and pass through areas like the Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area, which features a reservoir and nature center, before reaching the Pacific Ocean at Long Beach City Beach.
When planning your visit, be aware that much of the route offers little shade, so prepare for significant sun exposure, especially in drier sections. Onshore headwinds can also build throughout the day, requiring more effort as you ride towards the mountains. The trail is almost entirely off-street, providing uninterrupted pedaling without traffic concerns, but some women riders advise against riding alone in certain northern sections.
This loop combines sections of the Los Angeles River Greenway and the San Gabriel River Trail, creating an interesting contrast between channelized river sections and areas that retain natural riparian vegetation. You will also pass through community parks and the large El Dorado East Regional Park, showcasing the diverse environments found along these important urban waterways.
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47.9km
02:47
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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40.7km
02:22
110m
110m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
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16
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
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9
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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Greenway is a paved two-lane multi-use path, which stretches for over 50 miles along the LA River.
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The Rio Hondo Bike Bridge is an interesting structure that connects the bike trails that runs on either side of the Rio Hondo.
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The trail is part paved concrete and part packed dirt, and takes you through a series of parks along the San Gabriel River. The trail runs for a mile and a half and is interrupted by only two road crossings.
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Wonderfully wide beach, the bike path right in the middle.
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Highly recommend cycling around LA. It's hard to believe, but the city is more bike-friendly than some cities in Germany. Riding in the footsteps of the Terminator along the LA River in particular is a lot of fun and there is also very little traffic :-)
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Excellent paved dedicated bike trails along Rio Hondo, a safe car-free connection through the otherwise wall-to-wall urban landscape.
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The section north-west of here is blessed with the paved Rio hondo bikeway on both sides of the river channel. One bridge at each end of the parallel section helps connect to the other side to continue riding along the river. To the south this is the East bank, to the North-East it is on the North-West bank of the river. If you pass the bridge into the dead-end section you will notice it thanks to the homeless encampment getting denser and eventually closing off the trail ...
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Strategic connection between these two long distance bikeways: Follow the ramps up from either bike trail to get on the bridge at the confluence of the Rio Hondo and the Los Angeles River. Both rivers are canalized and have excellent dedicated bike trails that form the best, safest bike routes without car traffic.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Bell Gardens?
There are over 35 touring cycling routes available around Bell Gardens, offering a variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Bell Gardens?
Yes, Bell Gardens offers 12 easy touring cycling routes. These paths are generally flat and paved, making them ideal for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride through urban green spaces.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes around Bell Gardens?
The touring cycling routes in Bell Gardens are primarily situated within an urban and suburban landscape. You can expect relatively flat terrain with a network of paved paths and streets, often traversing local parks and connecting various points of interest.
Are there family-friendly touring cycling options in Bell Gardens?
Yes, many of the easy and moderate routes in Bell Gardens are suitable for families. The flat, paved paths through parks and greenways provide a safe and enjoyable environment for cyclists of all ages.
Can I find challenging touring cycling routes in Bell Gardens?
While Bell Gardens is known for its flat terrain, there are 10 routes classified as difficult. These routes might cover longer distances or incorporate more complex urban navigation, offering a greater challenge for experienced touring cyclists.
What are some interesting places to see along the touring cycling routes in Bell Gardens?
As you cycle around Bell Gardens, you can explore several local points of interest. Notable attractions include the Rio Hondo Bike Bridge, the tranquil Bosque del Rio Hondo, and sections of the Los Angeles River Greenway. You might also cross the E-Imperial Bridge, which connects the LA River and Rio Hondo bikeways.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Bell Gardens?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Bell Gardens are designed as loops or can be combined to create circular journeys. These allow you to start and end your ride at the same point without retracing your steps.
What do other cyclists say about touring cycling in Bell Gardens?
The touring cycling routes around Bell Gardens are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists often praise the accessibility of the paved paths, the urban green spaces, and the connection to local points of interest.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Bell Gardens?
Bell Gardens generally experiences mild weather year-round, making touring cycling enjoyable in most seasons. Spring and fall offer particularly pleasant temperatures, while summer can be warm, so early morning or late afternoon rides are recommended. Winter cycling is also possible due to the mild climate.
Can I go touring cycling in Bell Gardens during winter?
Yes, touring cycling in Bell Gardens is possible during winter. The region experiences mild winters with infrequent rainfall, allowing for comfortable rides. It's always advisable to check the local weather forecast before heading out.
Are there opportunities to see wildlife while touring cycling in Bell Gardens?
While Bell Gardens is an urban area, cycling along the greenways and through parks like the Bosque del Rio Hondo can offer glimpses of local wildlife, particularly various bird species and small urban animals that inhabit these green corridors.
Are there cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the routes?
Given the urban and suburban setting of Bell Gardens, you'll find numerous cafes, restaurants, and convenience stores located near or along many of the cycling routes, especially when passing through commercial areas or local neighborhoods.
What should I wear for touring cycling in Bell Gardens?
For touring cycling in Bell Gardens, light and breathable athletic wear is generally recommended, especially during warmer months. Layers are advisable for cooler mornings or evenings, and always bring sun protection like a hat or sunscreen, and plenty of water.
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