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Routes
Running trails & routes
United States
California
San Diego County
Chula Vista

Sweetwater Bikeway Loop

Hard

2.6

(4)

33

runners

Sweetwater Bikeway Loop

02:25

23.2km

40m

Running

Jog the 14.4-mile Sweetwater Bikeway Loop, a difficult route with 124 feet of elevation gain, offering river views and paved surfaces.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through protected areas

Please check local regulations for:

San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1

2.28 km

Sweetwater Bikeway

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

Here you can cycle alongside the river. The Sweetwater River runs from the Cuyamaca Mountains into San Diego Bay.

This multi-use path is part of the Sweetwater Bikeway, which is a paved trail along the river. This can get quite busy, so be respectful of other path users.

Tip by

2

6.54 km

Sweetwater Bikeway Tunnel

Highlight • Bridge

This cool tunnel skirts under the road. The path switches from the Sweetwater Bikeway to the Sweetwater Park Trail shortly after passing under the tunnel (headed north).

Tip by

3

10.7 km

Sweetwater Park Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Sweetwater Park Trail connects the Sweetwater Bikeway to the Sweetwater Reservoir. The trail winds its way through Rohr Park and Sweetwater Regional Park on mainly dirt and crushed gravel paths. There is some sand, too, but not enough to make running aggravating. There is a lot of nature and wildlife in the parks, which can be cool to see, and there are usually quite a few other people out on the trail.

Tip by

B

23.2 km

End point

Parking

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

21.6 km

1.44 km

204 m

Surfaces

10.6 km

7.76 km

3.19 km

1.44 km

272 m

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

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Weather

Powered by Foreca

Today

Sunday 17 May

19°C

16°C

9 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to jog the Sweetwater Bikeway Loop?

The komoot route for the Sweetwater Bikeway Loop is approximately 23.2 km (14.4 miles) and typically takes around 2 hours and 25 minutes to jog. Keep in mind that while the main bikeway itself is shorter (2.2 to 3 miles), creating a 'loop' often involves connecting to other trails, which can extend the distance significantly.

Is this trail suitable for beginner joggers?

Yes, the Sweetwater Bikeway is generally considered easy and suitable for beginner joggers. It features mostly paved surfaces (asphalt and concrete) and is relatively flat. While some small, steep inclines might be encountered, particularly near the marina, other access points like Hoover Avenue offer flatter stretches, making it accessible for various fitness levels.

Is the Sweetwater Bikeway a true loop trail?

The Sweetwater Bikeway itself is a multi-use path, not inherently a single, designated loop. However, you can create loop routes by connecting to other trails in the area. For example, there are routes that combine sections of the bikeway with other paths to form longer loops, such as a 32.5 km (20-mile) loop from Westfield Plaza Bonita.

Where can I access the trail and find parking?

The trail offers easy access points. You can find on-street parking available at various locations along the route. Sweetwater Park Trail and Pepper Park are known access points, with restrooms available at Pepper Park.

What is the terrain like for jogging?

The terrain is predominantly smooth, consisting of asphalt and concrete surfaces. This makes it ideal for jogging. While generally flat, be aware that some patches may be slightly raised, and small inclines can occur, especially if you start near the marina.

What kind of scenery can I expect along the route?

You can expect views of the Sweetwater River as it flows towards San Diego Bay, passing through park-like settings and near a yacht harbor. The route also goes under several roads. While river views are common, some sections run close to the 54 freeway, so you might experience freeway noise. The trail also connects to the Sweetwater Bikeway and Sweetwater Park Trail.

What is the best time of year to jog the Sweetwater Bikeway Loop?

The trail is generally enjoyable year-round due to Southern California's mild climate. However, spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures for jogging. Summers can be warm, so early mornings or late afternoons are preferable during those months.

Are there any specific points of interest or landmarks?

Yes, along the route, you'll encounter the Sweetwater Bikeway itself, which is a key feature. You'll also pass through the Sweetwater Bikeway Tunnel and sections of the Sweetwater Park Trail.

Does the Sweetwater Bikeway Loop connect to other trails?

Yes, the route is well-integrated into a larger network. It connects to the Bayshore Bikeway at its western end and serves as a commuter link to the Sweetwater Park Trail. It also forms part of larger networks like the California Riding and Hiking Trail, the California Coastal Trail, and the San Diego Bike the Bay Trail.

Is the Sweetwater Bikeway Loop dog-friendly?

Yes, the Sweetwater Bikeway is generally dog-friendly. However, always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all users.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for the Sweetwater Bikeway Loop or Sweetwater Regional Park?

No, you do not need a permit or have to pay an entrance fee to access the Sweetwater Bikeway Loop or the general areas of Sweetwater Regional Park that the trail passes through. It's a publicly accessible multi-use path.

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