California has a safe and well-developed infrastructure to practice this sport, and of course, when the weather is perfect… warm and sunny days are meant for cruising.
The ability to see and experience these locations from the view of an eBike offers a completely different experience. If you are a seasoned eBike cyclist or a novice just beginning to get out and see the world from your eBike, then this list should be considered as a few bucket list locations. So, pack your e-bike and gear and head to California. We’ll tell you about some of the best cycling routes in this state. Rest assured you won’t be disappointed.
1. Rincon Bike Trail, Ventura County
This trail connects the town of Carpinteria with Ventura. It is a fully protected bike path that offers incredible views of the coastline. You start your trip at Rincon State Park. The parking lot is usually considered the starting point there. Alternatively, you can ride from the town of Carpinteria. A highlight of the route is Rincon, a surf break where you can watch dolphins as you pass by.
Further, you’ll reach Highway 1. Don’t worry; this part of the route is safe. You can ride confidently on a wide bike lane. After more or less 10 miles, you’ll reach your final destination in downtown Ventura. The last part of the route is flat terrain, so you won’t have any problem completing the trip.
Notice that you won’t find any place to buy food or beverages along the route. Hence, you are advised to pack some snacks and water for your ride. Sideboxes come in handy here. It will be much more comfortable than carrying a backpack.
2. Bizz Johnson National Recreation Trail, Lassen County
This 25-mile trail allows the rider to see amazing natural beauty. The route goes through a pine forest and follows the Susan River Canyon. The rider will cross 12 bridges. There are also 3 tunnels along the route. If you add the historical significance of the train depot Susanville, the result is a unique cycling route.
This route is a dirt and gravel trail, but it is not particularly challenging. However, you should be careful of equestrians that also use the trail. Bring water with you and proper clothing for the weather on the day of your ride. As a tip, consider visiting during autumn. In this season, you will be rewarded with incredible colorful scenery. You can ride during winter too. Make sure to equip your e-bike with proper tires and beware of cross-country skiers.
3. Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, Monterey County
This cycling trail follows the former Southern Pacific Railroad route. Riding on this trail is a wonderful experience, especially if you love the ocean. This 18-mile route takes you past sandy beaches, marinas, fishing piers, and parks. You will likely get the opportunity to see some marine wildlife like sea lions and whales along the trip. The route passes by the well-known Fisherman’s Wharf and Monterey Bay Aquarium. This route is quite popular, so you will share it with other bikers, skaters, and people walking.
4. The Strand, Los Angeles
This 22-mile route takes you from Will Rogers State Beach to Torrance County Beach. Its official name is Marvin Braude Bike Trail, and it allows you to know the spirit of Los Angeles in a single ride. You’ll see beaches with their iconic volleyball courts and a fusion of colors everywhere. Nature and urban architecture merge seamlessly to provide breathtaking views along the trail. You’ll ride across some of the most emblematic neighborhoods of LA like Santa Monica and Redondo. There are restaurants and shops along this route, where you can stop for a snack. Bear in mind that the trail can be crowded on weekends.
5. Joe Rodota Bike Trail, Santa Rosa
This paved trail connects Santa Rosa and Sebastopol. It is one of the easiest cycling trails with 8.5 miles of flat terrain. The trail will take you across wetlands with hundreds of different animal species. Another attraction along the route is an abandoned railway line and three old trestle bridges. You can start cycling in Santa Rosa at the Prince Memorial Greenway. You complete the trip when you reach the intersection of Mill Station Road and Highway 116 in Sebastopol.
6. MacKerricher State Park, Mendocino County
This 10-mile route goes through the MacKerricher State Park. The coastal trail follows the old “Haul Road” from Glass Beach. While riding on this scenic trail, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the surrounding nature and spectacular landscapes. When you reach the rail bridge, you can stop for seal-watching. Make sure to take good binoculars to facilitate marine mammal viewing.
7. West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz
If you are a novice, this trail is a good alternative. It is just 3 miles long and the shortest on our list. However, this short route has a lot to offer. You’ll pass by a classic seaside amusement park in California, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Further, you will reach the lighthouse at Steamer Lane. From this point, you can watch surfers battling big waves. The path continues along Santa Cruz’s scenic coast. You’ll be able to spot migrating whales in spring and sea otters all year around.
8. American River Trail, Sacramento
This 32-mile trail is the longest on our list. It follows the American River and takes the rider past lakes, parks, and swimming spots. It consists of flat terrain mostly. You’ll find plenty of water fountains and restrooms along the route. This trail goes from Sacramento’s old town to Folsom Lake. At the end of the trail, you can ride additional 12 miles around Lake Natoma if you wish.
9. Bayshore Bikeway, San Diego
This 17-mile paved trail will take you around San Diego Bay. The route consists of smooth and flat terrain almost in its entirety. The views of downtown San Diego along the route are spectacular. You will pass different sites including naval bases. In the afternoon, the coastal leg can be very windy. However, it is worthwhile riding late in the afternoon since this route is the best for sunset watching.
10. Hammond Trail, McKinleyville
This trail is 5.5 miles long along the Northern California coastline. This route offers a lot of adventure, history, and exceptional views. You will have the opportunity to watch marine wildlife and different species of birds along the route. There are several points from which you will have spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean.
P.S – you better charge your phone and be ready to take a lot of photos.
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