Lamorinda and Briones Loop

This is considered a difficult road cycling route. It covers approximately 74 kilometers (46 miles) with a significant elevation gain of about 1,360 meters (4,462 feet), requiring good fitness and experience with challenging climbs.

The route primarily features paved roads, including dedicated bikeways and sections with marked cycling lanes. While the Lamorinda Trail Loop portion is entirely paved, the Briones Regional Park sections involve rolling hills and substantial elevation changes on mostly well-paved surfaces suitable for racebikes.

On average, completing this road cycling loop takes approximately 4 hours, 5 minutes. This duration can vary based on your cycling speed, fitness level, and any stops you make along the way.

You'll encounter several notable points of interest. These include the challenging Rancho La Boca Summit - Alhambra Valley Road and the El Toyonal - Loma Vista climb. For panoramic views, don't miss Grizzly Peak Boulevard, which offers expansive vistas.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other trails. You'll ride along parts of the Lamorinda Trail Loop, the Bay Area Ridge Trail - 02 - East Bay, the ADT - California - T - Seg 8, the Mokelumne Coast to Crest Trail, and the East Bay Skyline National Recreation Trail, among others.

While the Komoot tour starts in Lafayette, Briones Regional Park has multiple entry points with parking. For specific trailhead parking, it's best to check the East Bay Regional Park District website for detailed information on parking lots and access points within Briones Regional Park that align with your starting preference.

The best seasons for cycling the Lamorinda and Briones Loop are typically spring and fall. During these times, the weather is generally mild, and the landscapes are vibrant. Summer can be hot, especially in exposed areas, while winter may bring rain and cooler temperatures.

Within Briones Regional Park, dogs are generally permitted but must be kept on a leash in developed areas and under voice control in undeveloped areas. Always check specific signage and regulations for any sections of the route that pass through other jurisdictions or protected areas.

There are typically no entrance fees for Briones Regional Park itself. However, some specific activities or facilities within the park might require a fee or permit. For general cycling on the main routes, a permit is usually not required, but it's always good to check the East Bay Regional Park District's official website for the most current regulations.

Given that the route passes through and near communities like Lafayette, Orinda, and Moraga, you will find various cafes, restaurants, and stores where you can refuel and grab refreshments. It's a good idea to plan your stops in advance, especially for the longer stretches within Briones Regional Park.

Briones Regional Park offers stunning panoramic views, especially from higher elevations like the Briones Crest Trail. You can often see the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta, Mount Diablo, and Mount Tamalpais. The park features open grasslands with scattered oaks and blue oak woodlands, providing a diverse and scenic backdrop for your ride.