The best road cycling routes in Ventura County

The Lake Casitas loop offers road cyclists a journey through varied California landscapes, from coastal stretches to the rolling hills of the Ojai Valley. You'll pass the historic Lake Casitas, which hosted Olympic events, and enjoy expansive views of the Pacific Ocean. The route is predominantly paved, but be aware of sections with chip seal, particularly on the challenging Casitas Pass climb.

This moderate route covers 48.1 miles (77.3 km) with a significant 2773 feet (845 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 33 minutes. The Casitas Pass climb features grades of 5-8% and some parts without a road shoulder, so it demands focus and experience. Plan your ride for cooler parts of the day and ensure you carry enough water, especially during summer.

Regarded as a classic ride in the Santa Barbara area, the Lake Casitas loop has even seen sections included in the Amgen Tour of California. Beyond the cycling challenge, you might spot dolphins along the coast or deer in the inland areas. It's a rewarding experience for those looking for a substantial road cycling adventure with diverse scenery and a touch of Olympic history.

This difficult 45.2-mile road cycling loop in Point Mugu State Park offers diverse terrain, significant climbs, and ocean views.

Cycle the moderate 21.4-mile Malibu Creek State Park loop, gaining 2097 feet in the Santa Monica Mountains with scenic views and movie sites

The Ventura - Santa Paula - Ojai Loop delivers a diverse road cycling experience, winding through historic fruit orchards and offering expansive mountain vistas. You will navigate rolling hills from Ventura to Santa Paula before facing a challenging 8-mile climb to the Upper Ojai Valley, with rewarding views of Lake Casitas from the summit. The return trip on the Ojai Valley Trail provides a pleasant, mostly downhill cruise back to Ventura.

This difficult 66.2-mile (106.6 km) route involves a substantial 3881 feet (1183 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring about 4 hours and 55 minutes to complete. Consider riding counterclockwise from Ventura to potentially mitigate prevailing winds on the main ascent. While the Ojai Valley Trail is suitable for all, the overall loop demands good to very good fitness, especially on the Ojai Road climb.

This route is a favorite among local cyclists and has even been featured in past stages of the Amgen Tour of California, highlighting its quality and challenge. The charming towns of Santa Paula and Ojai offer cultural interest and opportunities for a break, with Ojai known for its quaint downtown and oak-studded Libbey Park. The dedicated Ojai Valley Trail, built on a former railway line, provides a unique and relaxed finish to this epic ride.

The Farm loop offers a serene road cycling experience on a dedicated paved path, circling the agricultural areas north of downtown Fairbanks. You'll enjoy gentle climbs into the hills, passing through farmland and, on clear days, catching wonderful views of Fairbanks and the majestic, snow-capped peaks of the Alaska Range in the distance. It's a peaceful ride, free from vehicle congestion, making it a favorite for local cyclists.

This moderate 13.4-mile (21.6 km) route, with its 1005 feet (306 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hour and 8 minutes. It's suitable for various skill levels and can be ridden in both directions. As a dedicated path, it provides excellent accessibility within the Fairbanks area, though specific parking information isn't detailed.

What truly sets this route apart is its status as a dedicated road cycling path in Alaska, offering a safe and enjoyable environment away from traffic. It's distinct from other

The Leo Carillo State Park loop offers a challenging road cycling experience, blending stunning coastal views with the rugged beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains. You'll ride along the Pacific Coast Highway, taking in ocean vistas and passing landmarks like Point Mugu Rock, before heading inland to tackle chaparral-covered hills and sycamore groves. The diverse terrain and significant elevation changes make this a rewarding ride for experienced cyclists.

This difficult 57.9-mile (93.3 km) route involves 3459 feet (1054 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 4 hours and 24 minutes to complete. The park is located along the Pacific Coast Highway, offering convenient access, though some routes in the area may include unpaved sections. Consider starting early to make the most of the day and avoid peak traffic.

Beyond the cycling, Leo Carillo State Park is known for its diverse ecosystems, encompassing 1.5 miles of coastline with beaches and offshore reefs, alongside inland areas. The park also features a unique "Hike & Bike Campground," providing a primitive camping experience for those arriving without a car, close to both beaches and hiking trails.

This moderate 35.2-mile road cycling loop in Simi Valley and Thousand Oaks offers diverse scenery, including colorful landscapes and canyon

The Wheeler Springs road cycling route offers a truly unique experience, taking you deep into the Los Padres National Forest. As you climb, the landscape transforms into a high desert environment, revealing striking rock formations and expansive vistas. You'll even pass through tunnels carved into the gorge walls, especially in the scenic Wheeler Gorge area, making for a memorable and isolated ride.

This moderate route covers 16.3 miles (26.2 km) with a substantial 1448 feet (441 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring about 1 hour and 22 minutes. It's a challenging ride, so cyclists should have good fitness; beginners might find the sustained climbing too demanding. Parking is usually found in Ojai, from where you'll ride out to the highway. Spring and fall are ideal for milder temperatures, as summer can be intensely hot.

What makes this route stand out is its demanding nature combined with the raw, isolated beauty of the high desert. Beyond Wheeler Springs on Highway 33, you might even catch glimpses of the ocean on a clear day. It's a fantastic option for those seeking a rigorous workout and a deep immersion in California's natural, rugged landscape.