The best cycling routes around Pasadena

Pasadena offers a diverse range of touring cycling routes, from challenging mountain ascents in the San Gabriel Mountains to serene park loops and dedicated bike paths. You can find paths suitable for various skill levels, including routes with significant elevation changes and flatter paths along canyons and urban green spaces like the Arroyo Seco.

Yes, Pasadena has several easy options. The Rose Bowl Perimeter Loop is a popular 4.7-mile route with minimal elevation, perfect for a leisurely ride. The Arroyo Seco Bike Path also offers a multi-terrain ecosystem with dedicated paths suitable for families and those seeking an easier ride. Overall, about 75% of the touring cycling routes in the area are rated as easy.

Pasadena is rich in scenic beauty. Routes in the San Gabriel Mountains, such as sections of the Angeles Crest Highway or the Mount Wilson Toll Road, offer stunning canyon views and panoramic vistas of the San Gabriel Valley. The Arroyo Seco provides lush, multi-terrain scenery, while Eaton Canyon Natural Area features a scenic 50-foot waterfall. Hahamongna Watershed Park also offers wetlands, meadows, and opportunities for birdwatching.

Absolutely. Routes like the 'Flintridge 20 miles loop' allow you to journey from the city's bustle to the tranquility of La Canada Flintridge, passing by attractions like the Rose Bowl and potentially the Norton Simon Museum. Many routes connect urban green spaces with natural areas, providing a varied cycling experience.

Pasadena boasts a mild year-round climate, making it an excellent destination for touring cycling almost any time. Spring and fall generally offer the most comfortable temperatures, but even winter provides pleasant conditions for riding. Summer can be warm, especially in the mountains, so early morning or late afternoon rides are often preferred during those months.

While cycling, you can pass by or easily access several notable attractions. The Rose Bowl Stadium is a prominent landmark within the Arroyo Seco area. Nearby, you can explore beautiful outdoor spaces like The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens (in San Marino) or Descanso Gardens (in La Canada Flintridge). Urban parks like Brookside Park and Central Park also offer pleasant stops.

The touring cycling routes around Pasadena are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 54 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from challenging mountain climbs to accessible park loops, and the beautiful natural backdrop of the San Gabriel Mountains. The variety of experiences for different skill levels is also frequently highlighted.

While many routes are designed for day trips, some options allow for longer rides by connecting various paths. For instance, the Angeles Crest Highway offers a significant 40.2-mile path with stunning canyon views, and the broader Pasadena loop can be an intense 33 km ride. You can also combine sections of the Arroyo Seco trails with other paths for extended journeys.

Yes, many of Pasadena's touring cycling routes are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. The Rose Bowl Perimeter Loop is a prime example of a popular circular route. Other loops, such as the 'Flintridge 20 miles loop,' also provide a complete circuit for your ride.

Yes, especially on routes that venture into natural areas. Hahamongna Watershed Park, with its wetlands and meadows, is a popular spot for birdwatching. Eaton Canyon Natural Area also provides opportunities to observe local wildlife and plants. Cycling through the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains can also bring you closer to various native species.

Parking is generally available near popular cycling areas like the Rose Bowl Stadium and various trailheads for the Arroyo Seco and mountain routes. For specific public transport options to access different bike paths, it's advisable to check local Pasadena transit schedules and routes. Many areas are well-connected, making it feasible to reach starting points without a car.