The best traffic-free bike rides in Fort Ord Dunes State Park

Fort Ord Dunes State Park offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes designed to be traffic-free. There are over 30 routes available, with 12 rated as easy, 14 as moderate, and 8 as difficult, ensuring options for various skill levels.

Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for families. One excellent option is the Fort Ord Dunes State Park – Fort Ord Dunes State Park loop from Marina, which is just over 14 km long with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for a relaxed ride.

The routes offer diverse terrain, from wide, paved multi-use paths along the coastline, like sections of the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, to dirt roads and user-friendly singletrack within the broader Fort Ord National Monument. You'll encounter rolling dunes, coastal chaparral, and even oak woodlands, providing varied scenery.

Fort Ord Dunes State Park generally enjoys mild weather year-round, making it suitable for touring cycling in most seasons. Spring and fall often offer the most pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer can be popular, while winter might bring occasional rain, but clear days are still common.

Yes, many of the no-traffic touring routes are designed as loops. For example, the Gigling Road gate – Watkins Gate Road loop from Fort Ord Dunes State Park offers a moderate 18 km circular ride, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.

The routes offer stunning views of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and the Pacific Ocean. You'll cycle through pristine coastal dunes, which are critical habitats for rare species like the Western Snowy Plover. A boardwalk leading to a bluff top viewing platform provides panoramic ocean vistas, and you might spot seals, sea lions, and various birds.

Fort Ord Dunes State Park has a rich military history, having once been part of the U.S. Army post of Fort Ord. Cyclists can discover remnants of its past, such as old ammo storage bunkers tucked into the dunes. Educational panels and an audio tour are available at the main parking area to learn more about the park's natural and cultural history.

While specific bus routes directly into the park for cyclists might be limited, the park is accessible from nearby towns in the Monterey Bay area. It's advisable to check local transit options like Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) for routes that may get you close to the park's entrances or trailheads.

Fort Ord Dunes State Park offers designated parking areas, including a main parking lot where you can access trailheads and visitor information. Parking is generally available, but it's always a good idea to arrive early during peak seasons to secure a spot.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the park's extensive network of traffic-free trails, the breathtaking coastal scenery, and the opportunity to experience diverse natural habitats away from vehicle noise.

While Fort Ord Dunes State Park itself is primarily a natural area, the nearby towns and communities along Monterey Bay offer a variety of cafes, restaurants, and amenities. You can find options in Marina, Seaside, and Monterey, which are easily accessible from the park's vicinity.

Dogs are generally permitted in Fort Ord Dunes State Park on leash in developed areas and on certain trails. However, specific rules may apply to sensitive natural habitats, especially those protecting endangered species like the Western Snowy Plover. Always check park regulations upon arrival or on the official California State Parks website for the most current information regarding pet access on trails.