California bike trails. Known for sun and fun, California won't let serious bikers down. State parks and trails make this State a favorite spot for diehard riders.
EL CAPITAN STATE BEACH
1933 Cliff Drive
Santa Barbara, CA 93109
(805)968-1033
El Capitan State Beach has a scenic jaunt for any skill level biker. The 2.5 mile groomed pathway overlooks the Pacific Ocean and is a nice, clean ride. Campsites for bikers are available.
HUMBOLDT REDWOODS STATE PARK
Box 100
Weott, CA 95571
(707)946-2409
With 53, 250 acres in this park, you won't be disappointed with the bike runs. Trails curve through ancient redwood forests and offer the avid biker an exciting ride. Most trails are kept-up by park staff, but you're welcome to push your pedals through any area of the park. Three campgrounds are also available to bikers on long treks.
RED ROCK CANYON STATE PARK
Box 26
Cantil, CA 93519
(805)942-0662
Red Rock Canyon State Park merges the tip of the Sierra Nevada with the El Paso Range. Serious riders will enjoy the narrow trails and steep cliff climbs. Named for the red coloring in local rock formations, this area is as gorgeous as they come. Riders are able to camp at the 50-sites campground nearby.
LASSEN NATIONAL FOREST
55 South Sacramento Street
Susanville, CA 96130
(530)257-2151
This is the ultimate in wilderness experiences. Seasoned mountain bikers will appreciate the 120-mile Pacific Crest Trail. The pathway is rugged and remote, and bikers are urged to bring extra supplies and water.
MERCED RIVER TRAIL
Hwy 140 East
Mariposa, CA 95630
(916)985-4474
This is a favored ride of skilled bikers. As part of a network of ungroomed trails, this 18 mile stretch runs from Yosemite Railroad to Bagby, CA. Unshaded and completely untouched, this is a rugged, stiff ride. Note: this trail is shared by hikers, horseback riders and bikers.
POINT REYES NATIONAL SEASHORE
Bear Valley Road
Point Reyes Station, CA 94956
(415)663-1092
Covering 70, 000 acres, this park is large and rugged. Multiple trails make this a nice spot for the whole family to unload the bikes and cruise the scenic, semi-groomed trails. Highly skilled riders won't want to miss the Earthquake Trail, which follows the San Andreas Fault for just under a mile.
SOUTH YUBA TRAIL
63 Natoma Street
Folsom, CA 95630
(916)985-4474
This 15 mile trek is share with hikers and meanders through canyons, forested areas and meadows. Remnants of the 19th century mining operations which made this area famous, are positioned along the ride for easy viewing. Any skill level will enjoy this easy, well managed terrain.
STEVENS TRAIL
Colfax, CA 95713
(916)985-4474
This gentle 4.5 mile trail makes it's way along a canyon, and opens to several vistas. Historically significant, this ride features stops at a Gold Rush river and the infamous China Wall. The trail is made for hiking, but skilled bikers will have no trouble negotiating the path.
TAHOE NATIONAL FOREST
631 Coyote Street
Nevada City, CA 95959
(530)265-4531
With more than 400 miles of trails, bikers in any condition will enjoy the ride and scenic background. Streams, lakes and river crossings pop up frequently, but aren't difficult to manage. Many trails wind the Granite Chief Wilderness, but are well marked and easy to follow.
SQUAW LEAP TRAIL
Power House Road
Auberry, CA 93602
(916)985-4474
Here's a 10 mile, multi-paved path that's equally enjoyable for seasoned bikers and beginners. This is an easy ride for mountain bikers or those peddling traditional racing bikes. A fun horse bridge in the middle of the ride provides great views of the San Joaquin River.
