The best cycling routes in San Bruno Mountain State Park
4.5
(242)
8,667
riders
194
rides
If you've ever tried to plan touring cycling in San Bruno Mountain State Park, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many routes available, it's tough to tell which ones are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has ridden, reviewed, and mapped these routes, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the best touring cycling in San Bruno Mountain State Park, saving you the guesswork.
San Bruno Mountain State Park offers a truly unique cycling experience, an open-space island with a character all its own. You'll find everything from gentle paved sections to demanding climbs, with elevations reaching 1,314 feet at the summit. The terrain shifts from coastal scrub and grasslands to oak woodland, all while delivering those iconic 360-degree panoramic views of the entire Bay Area. While you can ride here year-round, spring brings magnificent wildflower displays that add an extra layer of beauty to your tour.
If you're looking for a route that offers a great overview of the park's diverse habitats and coastal views, we'd start with the San Francisco Bay Trail Loop, a moderate 25.9 miles (41.7 km) ride that's a local favorite. For something a bit easier and family-friendly, the Bike loop from Cow Palace is a fantastic 5.0 miles (8.0 km) option. With nearly 8,700 touring cyclists already exploring with komoot, you're in good company. Dive in and discover your next favorite ride!
Last updated: May 29, 2026
5.0
(1)
22
riders
18.7km
01:07
60m
60m
The Brisbane Lagoon β Brisbane Lagoon loop offers a delightful and accessible touring bicycle experience, perfect for those seeking a relaxed ride through the city. You'll pedal along paved surfaces, enjoying a mix of urban vistas and green spaces, with highlights like the vibrant South Bank and the serene City Botanic Gardens. It's a fantastic way to see Brisbane from a different perspective, suitable for all skill levels.
This easy 11.7-mile (18.7 km) loop involves a minimal 210 feet (64 metres) of elevation gain, making it a quick ride that most cyclists can complete in just over an hour. Its central location means easy access, and you'll find plenty of cafes and spots to pause for a break, particularly around the South Bank area. Consider an early morning or late afternoon start to enjoy cooler temperatures and a more relaxed atmosphere.
While the name might suggest a specific lagoon, this route is best understood as a segment or variation of the popular Brisbane River Loop, offering a taste of the city's extensive cycling network. It's an iconic route among locals and visitors alike, known for its versatility whether you're out for a recovery spin, a social ride, or simply exploring Brisbane's riverside charm.
6
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3
riders
8.02km
00:40
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(8)
26
riders
41.7km
02:35
350m
350m
The San Francisco Bay Trail Loop offers a dynamic touring cycling experience, weaving through a mix of urban landscapes, tranquil wetlands, and stunning Bay views. You'll encounter diverse terrain, from smooth paved paths to gravel and off-road sections, passing by highlights like Lake Merced and the Crissy Field Marsh. This moderate 25.9-mile (41.7 km) route, with 1146 feet (349 metres) of elevation gain, is a fantastic way to see the Bay Area, taking about 2 hours and 35 minutes to complete.
While the Bay Trail is a network rather than a single continuous loop, this route provides a substantial journey. Be aware that some sections may require navigation around incomplete segments, and local rules can vary along the extensive path. It's best to plan your specific access points and route details in advance, especially if you're looking for San Francisco Bay Trail Loop parking and access points.
This ambitious project aims to create a 500-mile multi-use path encircling the entire San Francisco Bay, with over 350 miles already completed. The trail offers unique experiences and breathtaking views, connecting numerous attractions like marinas, fishing piers, and cultural landmarks, making it a significant recreational asset for the region.
4.4
(5)
16
riders
49.5km
03:31
830m
830m
If you're seeking a truly challenging touring cycling experience along the California coast, the Pacific Coast Bike Route from Daly City to Montara delivers. This difficult 30.8-mile (49.5 km) route is a test of endurance, featuring substantial climbs and descents, particularly around Montara Mountain. You'll navigate a mix of pavement, gravel, and even rocky sections, all while being treated to breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged coastal bluffs.
Planning your ride requires a good fitness level and a bike ready for varied terrain. This point-to-point journey, which typically takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes, offers incredible scenery but demands careful preparation. While specific trailhead parking isn't detailed, ensure you have a solid plan for your start in Daly City and your finish in Montara, California.
This segment is a highlight of the larger Pacific Coast Bike Route, renowned for its continuous ocean panorama and diverse landscapes. It's a prime example of the best bike routes San Mateo Coast has to offer for those who love a challenge, passing by natural features like Mori Point Headlands and the famous Devil's Slide Trail. The route's significant 2722 feet (829 metres) of elevation gain makes it a memorable ride for experienced cyclists.
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Tips from the Community
The road along the lagoon has wide cycle paths on both sides and low traffic into Oyster Park. It is however exposed to high winds so take care when riding. Smooth road right by the clear water in the shadow of Mt. Bruno make for a great bypass between SF and South SF that avoids the high traffic Bayshore Blvd and the hill.
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The headwind when riding north can be brutal some days. The bike lane on both sides is wide and expansive. It's a really safe place to ride with beautiful views.
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Pedestrians taking their walks, be cautious and alert.
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The sculpture depicts "living-giving science" according to its artist, Marco Cochrane. It stands 24 feet tall, and was erected in front of biotech company Genesis Towers in 2020 to represent their mission. It shows a man and woman standing on top of a DNA strand, holding their hands in the shape of a heart.
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Along with Pine Lake, and Mountain Lake, Lake Merced is one of three freshwater lakes in San Francisco. The lake is fed through a natural underground spring and provides opportunities for all sorts of outdoor activities.
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With beautiful beaches, good food, and an iconic lighthouse Montara should be a must visit for anyone in the area. There are also miles of trails just outside the city for those who have a longing to hike the hills.
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This 2,400-acre park stands as an oasis of open space, right on the fringes of San Francisco. The highest point of the ridge is just over 1,300 feet (almost 400 meters) in elevation, and the views are great!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in San Bruno Mountain State Park?
San Bruno Mountain State Park offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 200 different options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, ensuring there's something for everyone.
What are the general difficulty levels for touring cycling in the park?
The park provides a good mix of routes for different abilities. You'll find approximately 74 easy routes, 73 moderate routes, and 54 more challenging routes, including those with significant elevation gain or unpaved sections. This variety allows cyclists to choose paths that match their fitness and experience.
What do other touring cyclists say about their experience in San Bruno Mountain State Park?
The touring cycling routes in San Bruno Mountain State Park are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 270 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the panoramic views from the summit and the diverse natural landscapes encountered along the trails.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in San Bruno Mountain State Park?
The park is enjoyable year-round, but spring is particularly beautiful for its magnificent wildflower displays. Clear days, especially outside of the summer fog season, offer the most spectacular panoramic views of the entire Bay Area from the summit.
What kind of views can I expect while cycling in San Bruno Mountain State Park?
From the summit of San Bruno Mountain, cyclists are treated to breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views. On clear days, you can see across the entire Bay Area, including San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, Mount Tamalpais, Mount Diablo, and even the Farallon Islands.
Are there any unique natural features or wildlife to look out for?
Yes, San Bruno Mountain is a biodiversity hotspot. It's home to over 650 plant species, including rare and endangered ones, and several endangered butterfly species like the San Bruno Elfin and Mission Blue. You might also spot various birds, including raptors like red-tailed hawks and kestrels, especially in the diverse habitats of coastal scrub, grasslands, and oak woodlands.
Are there any specific landmarks or points of interest along the cycling routes?
Absolutely. While cycling, you can explore areas like Guadelupe Canyon Parkway, or take in the stunning View of San Francisco from Radio Road. The summit of San Bruno Mountain itself is a notable point, offering expansive vistas.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in San Bruno Mountain State Park?
Yes, there are several circular routes available. A popular option is the Bike loop from Cow Palace, which is an easy 5-mile (8 km) trail offering views of the urban landscape surrounding the park.
Are there options for longer touring cycling routes that explore beyond the immediate park area?
Yes, for those looking for longer rides, routes like the San Francisco Bay Trail Loop offer a moderate 25.9-mile (41.7 km) path featuring diverse habitats and coastal views. Another challenging option is the Pacific Coast Bike Route: Daly City to Montara, a 30.8-mile (49.5 km) trail through varied coastal terrain.
Are there family-friendly touring cycling routes in San Bruno Mountain State Park?
Yes, the park offers shorter, easier paved bike rides that are suitable for families. These routes provide a gentle introduction to touring cycling while still allowing enjoyment of the park's natural beauty. The Bike loop from Cow Palace is an example of an easy route that could be suitable for families.
Is public transportation available to access San Bruno Mountain State Park for cyclists?
While the park is an 'open-space island' amidst urban development, specific public transportation routes directly to trailheads for cyclists can vary. It's advisable to check local transit authority websites for the most current bus or BART connections that might get you close to the park's entrances, such as those near Colma or South San Francisco.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes in San Bruno Mountain State Park?
Parking is generally available at various access points to San Bruno Mountain State Park. Specific parking areas can be found near trailheads or park entrances. For routes like the Murphy Windmill β Golden Gate Park loop from Colma, you would typically look for parking in or around the Colma area to begin your ride.
Are there any cafes or places to eat near San Bruno Mountain State Park after a ride?
Given the park's urban surroundings, there are numerous cafes, restaurants, and pubs in the nearby cities of South San Francisco, Daly City, and Colma. These towns offer various dining options for a post-ride meal or coffee, usually just a short drive from the park exits.
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