The best road cycling routes around La Cresta

La Cresta offers a distinctive road cycling experience characterized by its rolling hills, open spaces, and proximity to the Santa Ana Mountains and Cleveland National Forest. Cyclists will find routes with significant elevation gain, rewarding them with scenic landscapes and challenging climbs, often featuring steep hills and wind.

Yes, while many routes feature challenging climbs, there are options for easier rides. For instance, the Panorama Park – Hart Memorial Park loop from Bakersfield is an easy route covering about 36.7 km with moderate elevation gain, offering a more relaxed experience.

La Cresta is known for its challenging terrain. Routes like the The Bluffs – Round Mountain Oilfield loop from Bakersfield College, at 71.5 km with substantial elevation, provide a good test for experienced riders. The region's roads often include steep hills and winding sections, perfect for those seeking a demanding ride.

Absolutely. For longer rides, consider the Yokuts Park – The Park at River Walk loop from Bakersfield, which spans over 96 km. This route allows cyclists to cover significant distances through varied terrain.

Road cycling in La Cresta offers stunning scenic views, particularly of the Santa Ana Mountains and the surrounding rolling hills and open spaces. Many routes provide panoramic vistas. You might also encounter viewpoints like The Bluffs or Panorama Park, which are popular for their expansive outlooks.

While cycling the paved roads, you'll be in an area rich with natural beauty. The Cleveland National Forest borders La Cresta, and the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve is nearby. For specific points of interest, the Hart Park Trail and the Kern River Parkway offer scenic sections. The Tenaja Water Pump is also a known stop for cyclists in the area.

The road cycling routes around La Cresta are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 5.0 stars from several reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, challenging climbs, and the rewarding views of the Santa Ana Mountains and open landscapes.

While La Cresta is known for its challenging climbs and shared roads with car traffic, some routes might be more suitable for families depending on their experience level. The region's open spaces and less trafficked roads away from main arteries could offer pleasant rides, but it's important to choose routes with appropriate difficulty and traffic levels for younger or less experienced riders.

Yes, many of the popular road cycling options in La Cresta are designed as loops. For example, the Round Mountain loop is a well-known circular route covering 54.8 km, offering varied terrain and climbs.

La Cresta's climate is generally favorable for cycling. While specific seasonal weather can vary, the region experiences warm, dry summers and mild winters. Spring and fall often provide the most comfortable temperatures for longer rides, avoiding the peak heat of summer and potential cooler, windier conditions in winter.

Parking availability can vary by specific route starting points. Many cyclists begin their rides from areas with public parking or designated trailheads. For routes originating near Bakersfield College, such as the Yokuts Park – The Park at River Walk loop from Bakersfield College, parking facilities associated with the college or nearby parks are often utilized.

While not directly on the paved cycling routes, the spectacular Tenaja Falls, a multi-tiered waterfall, is located within the Cleveland National Forest, a short drive from La Cresta. It offers a beautiful natural attraction if you wish to combine your cycling trip with a short excursion.