Disc golf and shade

The Santa Ana River Trail offers a unique touring bicycle experience, transitioning from quiet, rural landscapes with desert-like vegetation to bustling urban environments. You'll follow the Santa Ana River channel, sometimes natural, sometimes concrete, passing by points of interest like Lake Evans and even glimpses of city landmarks. The terrain is varied, with mostly paved sections and some decomposed granite paths, providing a journey that feels both remote and connected.

Planning your ride on the Santa Ana River Trail is straightforward, as many sections are easily accessible. While the full 110-mile vision is still in progress, numerous completed segments offer excellent riding. It's a moderate 20.2-mile (32.5 km) route with 694 feet (211 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 59 minutes. Parking is available at various access points, and it's generally best to start early to enjoy cooler temperatures, especially during warmer seasons.

This trail is notable for its ambition to be the longest multi-use trail in Southern California, connecting 17 cities across three counties. It provides a diverse "crest to coast" experience, eventually linking the San Bernardino Mountains to the Pacific Ocean. Many sections function as a "bicycle freeway" with underpasses, making for uninterrupted travel, and it's popular for both recreational rides and commuting, offering a vital link between inland communities and the coast.

The Santa Ana River Trail – Bark Park loop from Pedley offers a diverse touring cycling experience, transitioning from natural riverbanks to urban corridors. You'll mostly cruise on smooth, paved asphalt, passing through areas that can feel quite rural and desert-like, especially in the inland sections. Expect a mix of scenery, from the green spaces around Yorba Regional Park to more developed areas, making it a varied ride for those who appreciate changing backdrops.

This moderate 35.2-mile (56.6 km) route, with 823 feet (251 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 3 hours and 20 minutes. It's a great option if you're seeking a long, mostly flat ride with some gentle climbs, perfect for a good workout without extreme challenges. While generally safe during the day, it's wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in less populated areas or under overpasses.

The Santa Ana River Trail is a significant multi-use pathway in Southern California, known for its extensive length and connectivity, aiming to link the mountains to the ocean. It serves as a "freeway for bikes," allowing for long, uninterrupted rides. This particular loop near Pedley offers a taste of this expansive network, providing a substantial cycling route in the Riverside County area.

Embark on a diverse touring cycling adventure with the Bark Park – Hidden Valley Viewpoint loop from Redlands–Esri, a route that blends urban exploration with natural vistas. You'll pedal through Redlands' charming streets, past historic architecture, and into the rolling foothills, with the promise of scenic views from the Hidden Valley Viewpoint. This journey offers a dynamic experience, transitioning from paved roads to potentially unpaved sections as you approach the viewpoint, providing a real sense of discovery.

This moderate 51.7-mile (83.2 km) loop, with 1239 feet (378 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 4 hours and 55 minutes to complete. While much of the route is suitable for touring bicycles, be prepared for the unpaved nature of the Hidden Valley Viewpoint trail, which might require dismounting. It's wise to carry ample water, especially during warmer periods, and consider starting earlier in the day to enjoy the views and avoid peak sun.

Redlands is a city with a strong cycling culture, offering a variety of bike-friendly options and a commitment to outdoor recreation. The Esri headquarters, a notable landmark near the starting point, is well-situated for accessing local trails. This loop provides a fantastic opportunity to experience the region's diverse landscapes, from its urban core to its natural viewpoints, making it a standout choice for cyclists seeking a varied and engaging ride.