The best cycling routes around Los Angeles

The Griffith Park and Los Angeles River Loop offers a dynamic touring bicycle experience, seamlessly blending urban riverfront paths with the expansive green spaces of Griffith Park. You'll start with flat stretches along the Los Angeles River, where you can spot diverse birdlife in the Glendale Narrows and admire vibrant street art. As the route climbs into Griffith Park, the scenery transforms, offering panoramic views of downtown Los Angeles and the San Gabriel Mountains from viewpoints like Cathy's Corner.

This moderate 26.3-mile (42.4 km) loop involves a significant 1290 feet (393 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 2 hours and 39 minutes to complete. While the river path is smooth, be prepared for some rougher, unpaved sections and potholes within Griffith Park, especially on Mount Hollywood Drive. Parking is available at various points, and starting early is advisable to beat the heat and crowds on this popular route.

Beyond the ride itself, this loop serves as a vital non-motorized corridor, connecting Griffith Park to surrounding communities and offering access to major landmarks like the Griffith Observatory and the iconic Hollywood Sign. The Los Angeles River segment is a recognized stopover for migratory birds, adding an ecological dimension to your journey. You'll also find convenient amenities like cafes along the river path, making it a well-rounded adventure.

The Los Angeles River Greenway and Griffith Park Loop is a fantastic touring cycling adventure that blends urban exploration with natural beauty. You'll start on the flat, paved Los Angeles River Greenway, observing riparian habitats and public art, before transitioning to the more challenging, hilly terrain of Griffith Park. Here, you'll be treated to expansive views of the San Fernando Valley and downtown Los Angeles, with the iconic Griffith Observatory and Hollywood Sign as your backdrop. This moderate 20.4-mile (32.8 km) route, featuring 651 feet (198 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 57 minutes to complete, offering a diverse experience for cyclists ready for a mix of urban and park riding.

Planning your ride requires a bit of foresight, as the Los Angeles River Trail has disconnected segments that may require navigating surface streets to connect. Within Griffith Park, be aware that some road sections can be rough with potholes or gravel, and you might share the road with car traffic. Parking is available near the park, but arriving early is a good idea, especially on busy days. This route is best for cyclists who are comfortable with varied road conditions and some urban navigation.

This loop stands out for its unique contrast, taking you from the evolving urban riverfront to the vast, wild parkland of Griffith Park. It's a great way to experience two distinct sides of Los Angeles, offering both recreational cycling and a glimpse into the city's natural and cultural landmarks. The Glendale Narrows section of the LA River is particularly notable for bird watching, as it's an important stopover on the Pacific Flyway migratory route, adding a wildlife element to your ride.

The Griffith Park and LA River Bike Loop offers a diverse cycling experience, transitioning from the revitalized urban corridor of the Los Angeles River to the expansive, wild spaces of Griffith Park. Along the river, you'll find smooth asphalt paths perfect for spotting diverse bird species and artistic river gates, while the park sections challenge you with significant climbs and reward you with panoramic city views from spots like Cathy's Corner. It's a journey through varied landscapes, blending city vibrancy with natural beauty.

This difficult touring bicycle route covers 27.4 miles (44.1 km) with a substantial 1718 feet (524 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 50 minutes. To make the most of your ride, plan for an early morning start, especially during warmer months, as shade can be limited. Parking is available around Griffith Park, but arriving early helps secure a spot, and remember to bring ample water for the climbs.

What makes this loop truly notable is its blend of accessibility and diverse attractions. It connects one of North America's largest municipal parks to numerous communities, offering a unique opportunity to explore iconic landmarks like the Griffith Observatory and the William Mulholland Memorial. The LA River Bike Path segment highlights ongoing revitalization efforts, transforming a former flood channel into a thriving recreational corridor for both commuters and leisure cyclists.

The Palos Verdes Drive Loop offers a memorable touring cycling experience, often called the “Donut Loop” for its circular shape and challenging terrain. You'll ride along a dramatic coastline with rugged cliffs, enjoying continuous, sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and, on clear days, Catalina Island. The route passes by landmarks like the Point Vicente Lighthouse and Bluff Cove, mixing demanding climbs with lush green spaces and lavish homes.

This difficult 23.4-mile (37.7 km) route involves 1645 feet (501 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 25 minutes to complete. It's considered a hard bike ride that demands very good fitness. Public amenities, including restrooms and water, are available at locations such as the Point Vicente Interpretive Center, making it easier to plan stops.

What makes this route stand out is its combination of a fierce workout with some of Southern California's most spectacular coastal views. The loop is well-known among local cyclists, and during migration seasons, you might even spot whales from the route. Be aware that the southern segment near Portuguese Bend can be prone to landslides, so checking current conditions is advisable.

The Coastal, Ballona Creek & Expo Path Loop offers a fantastic touring cycling adventure through Los Angeles, transitioning from urban landscapes to the serene Ballona Wetlands and finally to the Pacific coastline. You'll enjoy a mostly flat, paved ride, but be ready for some moderate elevation changes over overpasses, making this 26.6-mile (42.7 km) route with 328 feet (100 metres) of gain a rewarding experience for cyclists of varying abilities. Expect to spend about 2 hours and 26 minutes exploring the diverse scenery, from cityscapes to salt-tinged air near Marina del Rey.

Accessing the trail is straightforward, with multiple entry points along its length. If you're driving, you can find parking at various locations, including Syd Kronenthal Park, which is a good starting point for the Ballona Creek section. Public transport is also an option, particularly for the Expo Path segment, which parallels the Metro E Line. This car-free environment is popular, so expect company, especially on sunny days, but it remains a comfortable and safe route.

This loop is a crucial connector, linking the urban heart of Culver City to the ocean and integrating seamlessly with the Marvin Braude Bike Trail for extended coastal rides. It's notable for its dual purpose, serving both recreational riders and commuters, and offers unique opportunities for bird-watching in the Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve. The route also features artistic elements like murals and designed gates, adding a cultural layer to your ride.