The best cycling routes in San Bernardino County

The Big Bear and Baldwin Lake loop offers a fantastic touring cycling experience, winding through diverse landscapes from the shores of Big Bear Lake to the unique marshlands near Baldwin Lake. You'll pedal along mostly paved roads, enjoying scenic views of ponderosa pines, mountain vistas, and even unique rock formations, with the popular Alpine Pedal Path providing a tranquil, car-free section along the north shore.

This moderate 31.0-mile (49.8 km) route, with 985 feet (300 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 55 minutes to complete. While the climbing is spread out, the high altitude of the Big Bear region adds to the challenge, making it a great option for intermediate cyclists. Be mindful of traffic on the south shore of Big Bear Lake, and always carry enough water for the high-elevation ride.

This popular Big Bear Lake cycling route is a highlight for touring cyclists, known for its comprehensive tour of the area's natural beauty. It combines the expansive Big Bear Lake with the quieter, higher-elevation Baldwin Lake, offering a lengthier journey without extreme vertical climbs. The region's history of hosting major cycling events underscores its appeal as a premier cycling destination.

This challenging touring cycling loop from Twenty Nine Palms takes you deep into the unique desert landscape of Joshua Tree National Park. You'll navigate a diverse terrain featuring towering granite outcrops, surreal rock formations, and vast groves of the park's namesake Joshua trees, especially in the western half. The route offers immersive views and a true sense of adventure as you traverse both paved and unpaved roads, with some sandy backcountry tracks requiring wider tires.

Planning for this 48.7-mile (78.4 km) difficult ride, which includes 2910 feet (887 metres) of elevation gain and takes around 5 hours and 8 minutes, means being self-sufficient. There are no water refill stations in the park, so carrying at least one gallon per person is crucial. The ideal time to cycle is during the spring (mid-March to mid-May) or fall (September to early December) to avoid the intense summer heat.

Joshua Tree National Park is where the Mojave and Colorado deserts converge, creating a unique ecosystem. This route allows you to experience this otherworldly environment firsthand, appreciating the iconic flora and rugged rock formations. While cycling is restricted to roads, the park offers about 100 miles of sandy dirt tracks for a less trafficked experience, making it a rewarding adventure for those prepared for demanding terrain.

The Carriage Trail and Cocomaricopa Trail Loop offers a delightful and easy touring cycling experience through the scenic San Timoteo Nature Sanctuary. You'll pedal along the San Timoteo creek bed, enjoying gentle slopes and fun, curving sections, particularly through groves of eucalyptus trees. The route provides picturesque views of the natural surroundings, with a notable canyon lookout adding to the visual interest, making it a perfect outing for a relaxed ride.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is highly accessible and open from dawn to dusk year-round. You won't need any special permits for cycling, and parking is generally available. This makes it an ideal choice for a spontaneous ride or for those looking for family-friendly cycling trails without complex logistics. The entire 3.4-mile (5.5 km) loop, with its 162 feet (49 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 31 minutes.

Rated as easy, this loop is particularly well-suited for new touring cyclists or families looking for a casual outing. The ability to combine the Carriage and Cocomaricopa Trails into a cohesive loop within the sanctuary is a key feature, offering a varied yet consistently mellow ride. It's a great option if you're seeking a low-stress cycling adventure in the Redlands area of California.

The Blue Mountain Trail offers a focused touring cycling experience, ideal for those seeking a moderate challenge in a compact package. You'll cover 4.6 miles (7.4 km) and ascend 1221 feet (372 metres), making for a brisk ride that typically takes around 50 minutes. It's a route where the journey is defined by the consistent effort and the satisfaction of a good climb, rather than specific scenic highlights.

Planning your ride on the Blue Mountain Trail means preparing for a steady workout. While specific trailhead information isn't available, it's always a good idea to ensure your bike is in top condition and you carry enough water, especially if cycling during warmer parts of the day in the Grand Terrace area. Check local conditions before you go.

This trail is a great option for cyclists in San Bernardino County looking for a reliable, moderate workout. Its relatively short distance combined with a notable elevation gain makes it a perfect choice for a quick training session or a focused ride when you don't have hours to spare. It's a testament to how much effort you can pack into less than an hour on the bike.