The best cycling routes around Friant
5.0
(4)
42
riders
4
rides
Touring cycling routes around Friant traverse a landscape characterized by the San Joaquin River valley and its proximity to Millerton Lake. The terrain primarily consists of flat to gently rolling hills, offering accessible cycling experiences. Routes often follow established parkways and trails, providing a mix of natural scenery and developed areas. The region's physical features include open spaces, riverfront paths, and park environments suitable for various cycling abilities.
Best touring cycling routes around Friant
- The most popular touring cycling route is Fresno to Millerton Lake loop via Old Town Trail, a 44.5 miles (71.7 km) trail that takes 4 hours 11 minutes to complete. This moderate route connects urban areas with scenic lake views.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Madera, California to Millerton Lake loop, a moderate 50.4 miles (81.1 km) path. This route features expansive views of Millerton Lake and surrounding landscapes.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Parkway Trust/Caglia – Woodward Park loop from Gordon, a 7.5 miles (12.1 km) trail leading through Woodward Park and local parkways, often completed in about 41 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Friant is defined by lakefront paths, park trails, and valley terrain. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy bike trails around Friant to more challenging routes.
- The routes in Friant are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 3 reviews. More than 40 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Friant's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
5
riders
71.7km
04:12
330m
330m
The Fresno to Millerton Lake loop via Old Town Trail offers a rewarding touring cycling experience, guiding you through varied landscapes from agricultural fields to riverine paths, culminating in scenic views of Millerton Lake and the Friant Dam. This moderate 44.5-mile (71.7 km) route features 1069 feet (326 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 4 hours and 11 minutes to complete, making it a solid day trip for cyclists with good fitness.
When planning your ride, be aware of the road conditions Fresno to Millerton Lake cycling Old Town Trail presents, especially the stretch of Millerton Road between Friant and Auberry. This section is known for narrow shoulders, sharp curves, and fast-moving traffic, which some cyclists consider dangerous. There are no specific permits required for cycling this route.
Millerton Lake State Recreation Area is a significant feature along the route, boasting over 40 miles of shoreline and a multi-use trail system that makes it a hub for various outdoor activities. The lake itself was created by the Friant Dam in the 1940s, adding a historical and engineering landmark to your ride.
81.1km
04:42
340m
340m
Cycle a moderate 50.4-mile loop from Madera to Millerton Lake, featuring scenic views, rolling terrain, and the Friant Dam.
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5.0
(4)
15
riders
11.5km
00:40
40m
40m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
22.2km
01:47
190m
190m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Popular around Friant
Tips from the Community
The Lewis S. Eaton Bike Trail is a popular multi-use trail that runs through Fresno. It is very popular with runners, walkers and cyclists, so there is a good chance that you will encounter others out on the trail.
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The Parkway Trust/Caglia is part of the San Joaquin River Parkway and Conservation Trust, which has the Lewis S. Eaton Bike Trail in the east. The San Joaquin River runs to the west side of this green space as well.
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Madera got its start, and name (Madera is Spanish for wood) as an outpost for the California Lumber Company. These days it is best known and an agricultural hub with crops such as figs, tomatoes, almonds, and vineyards. It's also a convenient stopping point for those heading to Yosemite, Kings Canyon, & Sequoia National Parks.
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Woodward Park is a park in Northern Fresno. The park has many lakes and ponds with numerous birds and lovely bridges, a Japanese Garden, gazebos and picnic benches. It is a great place for a break.
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The Lewis S. Eaton Bike Trail is a 5-mile paved bike path that runs through Woodward Park. It is a great place for a traffic free bike ride with the family.
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Lost Lake Park is home to a primitive nature study area and a 38-acre lake. The park has restrooms and picnic shelters and is a great spot for bird watching.
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Lost Lake Park is home to a primitive nature study area and 38 acre lake. The park has restrooms and picnic shelters and is a great spot for bird watching.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Friant?
There are 5 touring cycling routes detailed around Friant, offering a variety of experiences from moderate to difficult. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community.
Are there easy cycling routes suitable for beginners in Friant?
Yes, Friant offers routes suitable for beginners. For an easy ride, consider the Parkway Trust/Caglia – Woodward Park loop from Gordon, which is 7.5 miles (12.1 km) long and takes about 41 minutes to complete, leading through Woodward Park and local parkways.
What is the typical length of cycling routes in Friant?
The cycling routes around Friant vary in length. You can find shorter options like the Parkway Trust/Caglia – Woodward Park loop from Gordon at 7.5 miles (12.1 km), up to longer routes such as the Madera, California to Millerton Lake loop, which spans 50.4 miles (81.1 km).
Are there family-friendly cycling options in Friant?
Routes that are generally flat or have gentle inclines are often suitable for families. The Parkway Trust/Caglia – Woodward Park loop from Gordon, being an easy route through a park, is a good option for a family outing.
When is the best time of year to go cycling in Friant?
Friant experiences hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant cycling conditions with moderate temperatures and less chance of extreme weather, making them ideal for exploring the routes.
What scenic views can I expect on the cycling routes around Friant?
The routes often feature views of the San Joaquin River valley and Millerton Lake. For expansive lake views, consider the Madera, California to Millerton Lake loop. You'll also encounter open spaces and park environments.
Are there any interesting landmarks or attractions to see along the cycling routes?
Yes, several routes pass by notable attractions. The Fresno to Millerton Lake loop via Old Town Trail connects urban areas with scenic lake views. You can also explore the Lewis S. Eaton Bike Trail and the expansive Millerton Lake itself.
Are there many circular cycling routes in Friant?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Friant are designed as loops. Examples include the popular Fresno to Millerton Lake loop via Old Town Trail and the Lewis S. Eaton Bike Trail – Woodward Park loop from Pinedale.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Friant?
The komoot community rates the routes in Friant highly, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 3 reviews. Cyclists often praise the mix of natural scenery, riverfront paths, and park environments, as well as the accessible terrain suitable for various abilities.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the touring cycling routes?
The terrain around Friant primarily consists of flat to gently rolling hills, making for generally accessible cycling experiences. Routes often follow established parkways and trails, providing a mix of natural scenery and developed areas, including riverfront paths and park environments.
Are there any less-known cycling routes worth exploring in Friant?
While the main routes are well-loved, exploring areas like the Hidden Homes Nature Trail or the Blue Oak Trail (though primarily hiking trails, they offer insight into the local landscape) can provide a different perspective. For a dedicated cycling route that might be less frequented than the main lake loops, consider the Tesoro Trail loop from Tesoro Viejo.
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