The best road cycling routes around Davis

Road cycling in Davis is primarily characterized by its flat terrain and an extensive network of bike-friendly infrastructure. You'll find yourself cycling through vast agricultural landscapes, including farmlands with aqueducts, sunflower fields, and orchards. Some routes also follow natural features like Putah Creek, and while most are flat, longer rides extending towards areas like Lake Berryessa can introduce rolling hills.

Yes, Davis offers many easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners. For instance, the Stevenson Bridge – Steady Eddy's Coffee House loop from Arlington & Cabot St. (Eastbound) is an easy 25.7-mile (41.4 km) trail that navigates through local agricultural areas. Another accessible option is The Davis Needle – Stevenson Bridge loop from Davis, a 16.7-mile (26.9 km) route through greenbelts and residential areas.

While cycling in Davis, you can encounter several natural features and landmarks. Many routes pass by agricultural fields and along the scenic Putah Creek Trail. You might also cycle past Lake Spafford, or cross the historic Stevenson Bridge. The region's greenbelts and the UC Davis Arboretum also offer pleasant natural surroundings.

For more experienced cyclists looking for a longer ride, the Stevenson Bridge – Lake Spafford loop from Davis is a moderate 56.6-mile (91.2 km) path offering varied scenery. Another option is the Lake Spafford – Stevenson Bridge loop from Davis, which is also a moderate 56.4-mile (90.8 km) route. For even more challenge, routes extending towards Lake Berryessa offer longer distances and some climbing.

The road cycling routes in Davis are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.1 stars from over 10 reviews. Over 700 road cyclists have used komoot to explore the area, often praising the extensive bike-friendly infrastructure, the flat and scenic agricultural landscapes, and the variety of routes available for different skill levels.

Davis is exceptionally family-friendly for cyclists, often called the 'Bicycle Capital of America.' The city boasts over 100 miles of bike paths, lanes, and trails. The Davis Bike Loop, an approximately 12-mile route circling the city, primarily uses off-road bike paths through greenbelts and parks, making it suitable for all skill levels and families.

Yes, many road cycling routes in Davis are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the Stevenson Bridge – Steady Eddy's Coffee House loop from Arlington & Cabot St. (Eastbound), the Stevenson Bridge – Lake Spafford loop from Davis, and the Tremont Farm – Stevenson Bridge loop from Davis. These loops allow you to explore the region without retracing your path.

Davis generally offers mild weather, making it suitable for cycling for much of the year. Spring is particularly pleasant, with opportunities to see wildflowers and green landscapes, especially in areas like the Dunnigan Hills. While summers can be warm, early mornings or evenings are often comfortable. The extensive bike infrastructure means cycling is a year-round activity for many residents.

Yes, the natural areas around Davis provide opportunities for wildlife spotting. The Putah Creek Trail and the Putah Creek Riparian Reserve are home to various bird species and other small wildlife. The nearby Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area is a significant location for birdwatching, especially during winter and spring migrations when large numbers of waterfowl and shorebirds are present.

Yes, you can find places for refreshments along or near some routes. For example, the Stevenson Bridge – Steady Eddy's Coffee House loop from Arlington & Cabot St. (Eastbound) explicitly mentions a coffee house. Longer routes that extend to nearby towns like Winters also offer amenities, including bike shops and cafes, making for convenient mid-ride stops.

There are over 25 road cycling routes available around Davis, catering to various preferences and skill levels. These routes range from easy city loops to moderate longer rides that explore the surrounding Yolo County landscapes.