The AMGEN Tour of California kicks off this Sunday, taking top cyclists through 12 cities over eight race stages throughout California. Even if you’re not a world class cyclist, you can enjoy some of California’s most scenic bike rides. Here are five of our top picks.
Monterey Bay
The Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, an 18-mile, two-lane paved path that runs along the shore, offers some of the most scenic views in California. This flat and family-friendly bike path is a relatively easy ride that passes by landmarks like Fisherman’s Wharf and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. All along the way, you’ll be treated to views of the California coast and Pacific Ocean.
Santa Barbara
On the three-mile Cabrillo Beachway paved path, you’ll be surrounded by tall palm trees, sandy beaches and ocean views as you ride along Cabrillo Boulevard. Along the way, you can make pit stops at Santa Barbara Harbor and Stearns Wharf, a popular Santa Barbara pier with shopping and dining.
Lake Tahoe
Whether you’re a top athlete or a recreational rider, you’ll find a stretch of path along Lake Tahoe to fit your ability level. Beginning riders can try a trail through the Truckee area, while more skilled riders will enjoy more challenging rides like the Flume Trail. No matter which trail you decide to ride, you’ll enjoy scenic views of the vast blue lake and pine-covered mountains.
San Diego
You can enjoy a warm bike ride along San Diego’s bay on the Bayshore Bikeway, which takes you through Coronado Island, along Silver Strand Beach and up through Chula Vista. If you tackle the entire loop, you’ll wind up in San Diego Harbor, where you can catch a ferry across the water back to Coronado Island.
Sacramento
The bike path along the American River takes you on a scenic ride from Sacramento to Folsom Lake, where the river and surrounding greenery set the scene for your ride. While you’ll feel like you’re surrounded by nature, you’re only blocks from retail centers should you need to take a break to refuel.
(Main image: Richard Masoner / Cyclelicious used under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike license)
