The best road cycling routes around Bell Canyon
4.7
(21)
3,122
riders
97
rides
Road cycling around Bell Canyon offers diverse landscapes within the Simi Hills, characterized by rolling hills, oak groves, and panoramic vistas. The area features varied terrain with significant elevation changes, providing a challenging environment for cyclists. Bell Creek winds through the community, contributing to the natural features encountered on routes. These physical attributes make Bell Canyon a notable destination for road cycling.
Best road cycling routes around Bell Canyon
- The most popular road cycling route is Topanga – Wild Walnut Park loop from El Escorpion Park, a 22.9 miles (36.8 km) trail that takes 1 hour 46 minutes to complete. This moderate route features over 1,600 feet (500 m) of elevation gain through rolling hills.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Topanga Beach – Malibu Lagoon State Beach loop from El Escorpion Park, a moderate 39.9 miles (64.1 km) path. This route includes over 2,800 feet (875 m) of climbing, offering views towards the coast.
- Local road cyclists also love the West Potrero Road – Lake Sherwood Drive loop from The Village at Topanga, a 61.3 miles (98.6 km) trail leading through the Simi Hills, often completed in about 4 hours 28 minutes.
- Road cycling around Bell Canyon is defined by rolling hills, oak groves, and varied elevation. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult routes, catering to different ability levels.
- The routes in Bell Canyon are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 20 reviews. More than 2,700 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Bell Canyon's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
143
riders
50.0km
02:42
970m
970m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.5
(4)
134
riders
66.6km
03:15
890m
890m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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5.0
(2)
109
riders
57.9km
03:14
1,200m
1,200m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
49
riders
55.0km
03:17
1,390m
1,390m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
62
riders
61.8km
02:49
590m
590m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
This is a great place to have a quick rest to take in the view over Santa Monica and its famouse pier.
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Pedalers Fork is a unique combination of a restaurant, bar, coffee shop, and boutique bike shop in the heart of Calabasas. It offers delicious farm-to-table dining and artisan coffee with a casual vibe and a great patio, making it a fantastic place to relax after a ride.
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Explore the vintage and contemporary homes of historic Adelaide Drive while enjoying ocean and hillside views. In the early 20th century, wealthy pioneer families built coastal residences here, and five of these homes still stand as designated landmarks. Notable current residents include artist Don Bachardy, architect Frank Gehry, animator Matt Groening, and author Mona Simpson. Thanks to preservation efforts, Adelaide Drive retains much of its history.
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Will Rogers State Beach stretches 1.75 miles along the shoreline and offers activities like swimming and diving. Visitors can enjoy public volleyball courts, playgrounds, gymnastic equipment, and the bike path. Will Rogers is a popular filming location for movies and TV shows, this beach is operated by Los Angeles County. Note that the California State Parks Annual Day Use Pass is not accepted here.
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This section of road on the popular Topanga Canyon Road is a nice warm up before the truly steep section of climbing begins. Like the whole road, it is relatively narrow, twisty, and there is no shoulder, so be cautious when riding this amazing mountain road.
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Food, coffee and tools
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As you traverse these extensive stretches of beachfront obstructed by private estates, you may find solace in the modest confines of this narrow rocky shore in Malibu. Dubbed Big Rock Beach, it earns its name from the sizable rock formation just offshore, a haven for seabirds and basking seals. Thanks to California's public beach laws, the entirety of Big Rock Beach remains accessible to all, as the mean high tide delineates its boundary. During lower tides, the sandy expanse expands, revealing a wider beachfront flanked by waterfront residences.
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Nestled at the foot of the expansive Topanga State Park in the Santa Monica Mountains, Topanga Beach stands as the nearest Malibu shoreline to Los Angeles, situated at the eastern edge adjacent to the Pacific Palisades neighborhood. Taking a leisurely roll down the ramp to the beach offers a refreshing respite worth indulging in.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Bell Canyon?
There are over 100 road cycling routes available around Bell Canyon, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. The komoot community has explored more than 100 routes in the area.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Bell Canyon?
Road cycling routes in Bell Canyon feature diverse terrain, including rolling hills, scenic oak groves, and areas alongside babbling creeks. You'll find a blend of well-paved surfaces and significant elevation changes, providing both smooth riding and challenging climbs through picturesque landscapes.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners in Bell Canyon?
Yes, Bell Canyon offers several easy road cycling routes. For example, the Wild Walnut Park loop from West Hills is an easy 26.1 km ride with approximately 220 m of elevation gain, making it a good option for those new to road cycling in the area.
What are some challenging road cycling routes in Bell Canyon?
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like the West Potrero Road – Lake Sherwood Drive loop from The Village at Topanga offer a demanding experience. This route spans 98.6 km with nearly 1,000 m of climbing through the Simi Hills.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the road cycling routes?
Many routes offer views of the region's natural beauty, including rolling hills, oak groves, and the riparian habitat of Bell Creek. You might also spot wildlife such as deer and hawks. For specific landmarks, consider routes that pass near Castle Peak, known for its impressive summit, or offer views of Simi Valley from higher elevations.
Are there any loop trails for road cycling in Bell Canyon?
Yes, many road cycling routes in Bell Canyon are designed as loops. Examples include the Topanga – Wild Walnut Park loop from El Escorpion Park and the Topanga Beach – Malibu Lagoon State Beach loop from El Escorpion Park, providing circular journeys back to your starting point.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Bell Canyon?
The road cycling experience in Bell Canyon is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, the challenging elevation changes, and the scenic views of rolling hills and oak groves that characterize the area.
Where can I find parking for road cycling routes in Bell Canyon?
While specific parking areas vary by route, many trails originate from locations with accessible parking. For example, the Victory Trailhead is a known parking location that can serve as a starting point for exploring the area's cycling routes.
Are there any cafes or restaurants suitable for cyclists near Bell Canyon?
Yes, cyclists can find places to refuel. For instance, Pedalers Fork Restaurant, Coffee Shop & Bike Shop is a popular spot that caters to cyclists, offering food, coffee, and bike-related services.
What is the best time of year to go road cycling in Bell Canyon?
Bell Canyon's climate generally allows for year-round cycling. However, the spring and fall months often offer the most pleasant temperatures for longer rides. Summers can be warm, so early morning rides are recommended, while winters are typically mild.
Are there any routes that offer coastal views?
Yes, some longer routes extend towards the coast, providing stunning ocean vistas. The Topanga Beach – Malibu Lagoon State Beach loop from El Escorpion Park is a moderate 64.1 km route that includes over 875 m of climbing and offers views towards the Pacific coast.
Can I find routes that connect to larger open space preserves?
Yes, some trails in the Bell Canyon area connect to larger networks. The extensive trail system, including the Bell Canyon Trail, can link to areas like the Upper Las Virgenes Canyon Open Space Preserve Park, offering opportunities for extended rides and exploration.
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