Sweetwater Bikeway – Otay Reservoir Dam loop from 24th Street
Sweetwater Bikeway – Otay Reservoir Dam loop from 24th Street
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Sweetwater Bikeway – Otay Reservoir Dam loop from 24th Street
03:10
51.7km
440m
Cycling
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 8, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
2.04 km
Sweetwater Bikeway
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
This multi-use path is part of the Sweetwater Bikeway, which is a paved trail along the river. This can get quite busy, so be respectful of other path users.
Tip by
9.26 km
Sweetwater River Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
11.1 km
Morrison Pond
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
23.4 km
Otay Reservoir Dam
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
42.7 km
San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Highlight • Natural
There are several bike paths that run along the coast, which give you great views of the water and a chance to spot wildlife.
Tip by
51.7 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
35.9 km
10.8 km
2.27 km
1.43 km
1.15 km
178 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
44.9 km
5.03 km
1.15 km
706 m
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Elevation
Highest point (200 m)
Lowest point (0 m)
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Weather
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Monday 13 July
23°C
19°C
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a touring cycling route that truly offers a diverse experience, the Sweetwater Bikeway – Otay Reservoir Dam loop from 24th Street is a popular choice. This moderate 32.2-mile (51.7 km) ride, with 1431 feet (436 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 3 hours and 10 minutes to complete. It's a fantastic option for touring cyclists who enjoy varied terrain and want to explore the diverse landscapes around San Diego, offering a great blend of easy cruising and more challenging sections.
What to expect on Sweetwater Bikeway – Otay Reservoir Dam loop from 24th Street
The journey begins on the smooth, paved Sweetwater Bikeway, offering pleasant views of the Sweetwater River and glimpses of San Diego Bay, perfect for easy cruising and birdwatching. As you head towards the reservoirs, the landscape shifts dramatically to more natural, rugged paths of dirt and gravel, with open grasslands and streamside vegetation. You'll eventually reach the tranquil waters of the Otay Reservoir, with distant vistas of Otay Mountain and San Miguel Mountain, and pass the iconic Otay Reservoir Dam. Be prepared for these surface changes; while the bikeway is easy, the reservoir sections introduce more effort with some climbs and varied surfaces, making it ideal for touring cyclists comfortable with mixed terrain and seeking varied viewpoints.
Planning your visit
Planning your ride is straightforward, with numerous access points and parking available, including near the 24th Street starting point. Restrooms are available at various points, such as Pepper Park. Since the route combines several segments, careful navigation using a map or GPS device is essential. Be sure to carry enough water, especially in warmer months, as amenities can be sparse in the more remote sections around the reservoirs. The best time to cycle the Sweetwater Bikeway Otay Reservoir loop is during cooler parts of the day or year to avoid excessive heat.
Trail details
- Distance: 32.2 miles (51.7 km)
- Elevation gain: 1431 feet (436 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 3 hours and 10 minutes
Comments
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