The best cycling routes in Monterey County

Monterey County offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 120 routes available on komoot. These routes cater to all skill levels, from easy coastal rides to more challenging inland adventures.

You'll find diverse terrain in Monterey County. The region features mostly flat coastal paths, such as sections of the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, ideal for leisurely rides. Inland, you'll encounter rolling hills and verdant valleys, particularly in areas like Carmel Valley and Salinas Valley, offering more varied elevation. Protected areas like Fort Ord National Monument also provide a mix of wetlands, woodlands, and some challenging climbs.

Yes, Monterey County has several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners and families. The Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail is a popular choice, offering a mostly flat, 12.7-mile path along the Pacific coastline. Another accessible option is the Pebble Beach Cruise, which provides a gentle ride with beautiful scenery.

Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Monterey County offers routes with significant climbs and longer distances. An example is the Monastery Beach – Bixby Creek Bridge loop from Carmel Valley, which covers nearly 60 miles with substantial elevation gain. The Big Sur coast, while not explicitly listed as a single route here, is also renowned for its dramatic and challenging cycling opportunities along Highway 1.

Monterey County's touring cycling routes pass by many iconic landmarks and natural features. Along the coast, you can experience the dramatic ocean vistas of the 17-Mile Drive loop, including the famous Lone Cypress tree. The Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail offers views of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, where you might spot marine wildlife. Inland, you can explore the diverse landscapes of Fort Ord National Monument or the picturesque vineyards of Carmel Valley. For stunning viewpoints, consider routes that pass by Seals Beach Overlook or offer glimpses of Buzzard's Roost Summit View.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Monterey County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Popular examples include the 17-Mile Drive loop and the more extensive Monterey Bay Coastal Trail and 17-Mile Drive Loop. For a shorter, easy loop, consider the Lovers Point Beach – Fishermans Wharf loop from Monterey.

Monterey County boasts pleasant year-round weather, making it an excellent cycling destination almost any time. The average high in summer is around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, with minimal rain from May to October. This period is particularly ideal for touring cycling, offering comfortable temperatures and dry conditions. Even in winter, the weather remains mild, though occasional rain showers are possible.

Yes, several touring cycling routes offer opportunities for wildlife spotting, especially along the coast. The Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, for instance, runs alongside the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, where you might see sea otters, seals, and various bird species. Keep an eye out for marine life and coastal birds on routes that hug the Pacific coastline.

Parking availability varies by route. For coastal routes like the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, there are often public parking lots available near popular access points in Monterey, Pacific Grove, and Carmel. For routes accessing areas like Fort Ord National Monument, designated parking areas are typically provided. When planning your ride, it's advisable to check specific starting points for parking information.

Many routes in Monterey County provide convenient access to cafes and dining options. The Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail passes through popular areas like Cannery Row and Fisherman's Wharf, which are bustling with restaurants and cafes. Routes through Carmel Valley also offer opportunities to stop in charming villages like Carmel Valley Village, known for its wineries and eateries. The Fishermans Wharf – Monterey State Beach loop from Monterey Regional Airport is another route that brings you close to dining options.

Generally, permits are not required for touring cycling on public roads and established bike trails in Monterey County. However, if you plan to cycle in specific protected areas or private lands, it's always best to check with the relevant authority (e.g., state parks, national monuments) for any specific regulations or permit requirements that might apply.

The touring cycling routes in Monterey County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an impressive average score of 4.8 stars from over 180 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's stunning coastal scenery, the variety of terrain, and the well-maintained paths. Many appreciate the ability to combine iconic landmarks with beautiful natural landscapes on their rides.

Yes, Monterey County offers routes that allow you to experience both its iconic coastline and its picturesque inland areas. For example, the Fishermans Wharf – Fan Shell Beach loop from Monterey offers a blend of coastal views and transitions into more varied landscapes. More extensive loops can take you from the Pacific shores through the rolling hills of Carmel Valley and the expansive Salinas Valley, providing a comprehensive tour of the region's diverse beauty.