The best cycling routes in San Bernardino County

San Bernardino County offers over 60 touring cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find options ranging from easy, family-friendly paths to challenging mountain and desert trails.

Yes, there are 15 easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. For a gentle ride, consider the Carriage Trail and Cocomaricopa Trail Loop, which is just over 3 miles long. Another accessible option is the Wooden path Stanfield Marsh – Cougar Crest Trailhead loop from Big Bear Alpine Zoo, offering a pleasant 9-mile ride.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, San Bernardino County has 21 difficult routes. The Joshua Tree National Park loop from Twenty Nine Palms is a demanding 48.7-mile journey through unique desert landscapes with significant elevation changes. Another strenuous option is the Andersen Bump – Carbon Canyon Regional Park loop from Rincon Park, a 28-mile route with over 2,900 feet of ascent.

Many touring cycling routes in San Bernardino County are loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Popular circular routes include the Big Bear and Baldwin Lake loop, a scenic 31-mile ride, and the Lake Evans Loop, which covers 31.7 miles.

San Bernardino County offers incredibly diverse landscapes for touring cyclists. You can explore the lush forests and panoramic views of the San Bernardino Mountains, including areas around Big Bear Lake. Alternatively, venture into the stark beauty of the Mojave Desert, with its unique rock formations and flora, or follow river corridors like the Santa Ana River Trail through urban and natural settings.

Yes, many routes pass by or are near significant natural and historical landmarks. You might encounter natural monuments like Hole in the Wall or the majestic Mount Baldy. The desert routes can lead you to unique features like Kelso dunes or the historical Wall Street Stamp Mill.

The best time for touring cycling varies by region within San Bernardino County. Mountain areas like Big Bear Lake are ideal in late spring, summer, and early fall. For desert routes, cooler months from fall through spring are preferable to avoid extreme summer heat. River trails and lower elevation paths can often be enjoyed year-round, though summer afternoons can be very warm.

While specific dog-friendly touring cycling routes aren't explicitly listed, many regional parks and paved paths in San Bernardino County allow dogs on leash. Always check local regulations for specific trails, especially within national parks or forests, as rules can vary. Generally, paved multi-use paths are more accommodating for cyclists with dogs.

Many popular touring cycling routes, especially those in regional parks or along established bikeways like the Pacific Electric Trail, offer designated parking areas. For routes around Big Bear Lake, parking is available in various spots around the lake. Public transport options are more limited for accessing trailheads in remote mountain or desert areas, but some urban-adjacent trails may be reachable via local bus services. Planning ahead for specific route access is recommended.

The touring cycling routes in San Bernardino County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from around 80 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the diverse scenery, from mountain vistas to desert expanses, and the variety of trails available for different skill levels. Many appreciate the well-maintained paths and the opportunity to explore unique natural environments.

If you're looking for significant elevation changes, routes in the San Bernardino Mountains are your best bet. The Blue Mountain Trail, though shorter at 4.6 miles, features over 1,200 feet of ascent. Longer routes like the Joshua Tree National Park loop from Twenty Nine Palms also include substantial climbs, offering a challenging experience.

Yes, San Bernardino County's vast Mojave Desert offers unique touring cycling experiences. The Joshua Tree National Park loop from Twenty Nine Palms is a prime example, traversing the distinct desert landscape where the Mojave and Colorado Desert ecosystems meet, showcasing rugged rock formations and unique flora.

Big Bear Lake is a popular hub for cycling, offering several touring routes. The Big Bear and Baldwin Lake loop is a fantastic 31-mile option that explores the scenic lake area with views of the water and surrounding evergreens. Another route in the vicinity is the Cougar Crest Trailhead – Wooden path Stanfield Marsh loop from Big Bear Lake, a moderate 18-mile ride.