If you're looking for a thrilling cycling experience, Los Angeles County is the place to be. From quiet and picturesque coastal bike trails to challenging mountain routes, these are the best bike routes in Los Angeles. Going for a scenic bike ride in California is an incredible way to enjoy nature, reduce your carbon footprint and exercise outdoors. The Rose Bowl Loop is a 3-mile circuit around the stadium, its parking lots and a golf course.
Both cyclists and runners use the circuit for basic training. Unless there's an event, it's never a bad time to race in the Rose Bowl. Even at night, there are a lot of people in the surrounding area and the roads are mostly well lit. If you're driving at night, make sure your front and rear lights are working.
Griffith Park is one of the best urban parks in the Los Angeles metropolitan area and is home to some of the best free things to do in Los Angeles. The Mount Hollywood Loop is a great route for those looking for a good workout and beautiful views. This trail runs through Griffith Park, goes up Commonwealth Canyon Drive to the Griffith helipad and then back down to Vermont Canyon. On this route, you'll cycle through Mount Hollywood and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
You'll also pass by the Griffith Observatory, one of California's most iconic buildings, so if you want to have a stellar experience, take a break and become one with the universe. The 22-mile Marvin Braude trail extends from Will Rogers State Beach in Pacific Palisades to Miramar Park in Torrance (where amateur cyclists can ride the Ballona Creek bike path, which continues to Culver City). The Marvin Braude trail is a longer trip, but it's quite easy and has facilities along the way. So, you'll have no excuse not to step on the accelerator on this bike path.
The trail can be crowded on weekends, especially when you're crossing Santa Monica and Venice Beach, so take some time to visit the Santa Monica pier and explore the Italian-inspired canals and boho scene of Venice Beach. Once you reach Marina del Rey, the road will turn into a bike path along Washington Boulevard. The Marvin Braude trail also divides at Hermosa Beach, where you can choose between walking The Strand (which is usually very busy on weekends) or along Hermosa Avenue (which is quite quiet). Syd Kronenthal Park trail in Culver City is another great option for cyclists looking for a pleasant ride on freshly paved roads.
You'll pass by public art installations and several parks, where you can stop to take a break and enjoy a sip of cold water before continuing. Follow the trail until you reach the Ballona wetlands; stay here for views and wildlife. When you reach the Pacific Ocean, the trail connects to the Marvin Braude bicycle trail, so you can continue your trip if you feel like taking a long trip. The San Gabriel River Trail is an exceptionally diverse landscape that extends from the base of the San Gabriel Mountains to the Pacific Ocean.
This tree-lined trail runs parallel to the San Gabriel River through El Dorado Park. You'll enjoy gorgeous ocean views when you finish your 38-mile trip at Seal Beach, where you can watch the sun set on the sand with some California kombucha in your hand. Long Beach offers two wide lanes dedicated to cyclists so they won't have to worry about cars or pedestrians while enjoying the sun and admiring stunning views of the ocean, Palos Verdes and the mouth of the San Gabriel River. Start your relaxing walk at Shoreline Village, with views of the Queen Mary and Aquarium of Pacific, and follow gradual twists and turns of trail until you reach Alamitos Bay.
Stay for a while to enjoy views of swaying palm trees, crashing waves and sandy beaches before returning. Elysian Park is home to some of Los Angeles' most challenging bike rides. Head to this lush area with your bike and hop on Elysee Valley bike path. As you drive along its smooth asphalt roads, you'll pass by looming trees and see beautiful views of downtown Los Angeles.
While there are several hills on this route, they aren't particularly steep and it doesn't take long to climb - so don't let them stop you from taking this path! You'll be rewarded with fast and fun descents. So if you're looking for an adrenaline-filled cycling experience in Los Angeles County - these are some of your best options! From quiet coastal trails to challenging mountain routes - there's something for everyone! Make sure your front and rear lights are working if cycling at night - but don't forget to take some time out to admire what's around you.
