The best cycling routes in Inyo County

Inyo County offers a diverse selection of touring cycling routes, with 13 routes available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 1 easy, 7 moderate, and 5 difficult options.

Inyo County's terrain is exceptionally varied, ranging from the lowest point in North America to the highest peak in the contiguous United States. You can expect dramatic elevation changes, encompassing desert basins, vast valleys, and towering mountain ranges like the Sierra Nevada and White Mountains. Routes can take you through salt flats, sand dunes, alpine environments, and unique rock formations.

The best time to go touring cycling in Inyo County largely depends on the elevation and specific area you plan to visit. Lower elevation areas, particularly Death Valley, are best explored in the cooler months from late fall to early spring. Higher elevation routes in the Sierra Nevada and White Mountains are typically accessible from late spring through early fall, once snow has melted. Always check local conditions and weather forecasts before heading out.

Yes, Inyo County offers routes suitable for beginners and families. For an easy and scenic ride, consider Artists Drive, a 3.8-mile trail through the colorful badlands of Death Valley. This route is relatively flat and offers a unique desert experience.

Experienced riders seeking a challenge will find several demanding routes. The Whitney Portal Road is a 12.2-mile trail with a dramatic ascent into the Sierra Nevada, featuring significant elevation gain. Another difficult option is the South Lake — Bishop route, a 15.2-mile path with over 2,200 feet of elevation gain through stunning High Sierra scenery.

Yes, Inyo County features several excellent circular touring cycling routes. The Owens Lake loop is a moderate 53.5-mile path offering expansive views of the dry lake bed, the Sierra Nevada, and the Alabama Hills. Another option is the Alabama Hills loop — Gravel, a 17-mile route through the unique rock formations near Lone Pine.

Inyo County is rich in natural landmarks. Many routes offer views of the Sierra Nevada and White Mountains. You can explore the unique rock formations of the Alabama Hills, famously framing Mount Whitney, or the ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest in the White Mountains. The Lake Sabrina route offers scenic views of the lake and surrounding Bishop Creek Canyon.

Yes, Inyo County is home to several beautiful waterfalls. While not directly on a touring cycling route, you can find highlights like Darwin Falls and Upper Darwin Falls, which are often accessible via short hikes from nearby roads. These are notable natural attractions in the region.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the unparalleled natural diversity, extreme topographical features, and the stunning vistas offered by the varied ecosystems. The opportunity to cycle through landscapes ranging from desert basins to alpine mountains is a major draw.

For long-distance touring, the Owens Lake loop provides a substantial 53.5-mile ride. Additionally, US Highway 395 stretches for 150 miles through the Eastern Sierra, offering a scenic backbone for longer rides through Owens Valley and various canyons, though it's important to be mindful of traffic.

Absolutely. Beyond paved roads, Inyo County offers extensive gravel roads and dirt trails. The Alabama Hills loop — Gravel is a great example, taking you through the iconic rock formations. Another excellent gravel option is the Owens River loop — Gravel, offering a moderate 23.6-mile ride along the river.