The best cycling routes in Fresno County

Fresno County offers a diverse range of touring cycling routes, transitioning from the flat agricultural valley floor to rolling foothills and the towering Sierra Nevada mountains. You'll find everything from gentle riverside paths to challenging mountain ascents. The region is known for its proximity to national parks, extensive forest lands, and a network of rivers and lakes, providing varied scenery for every ride.

Yes, Fresno County has several easy touring cycling routes perfect for families and beginners. For instance, the Lewis S. Eaton Bike Trail is an easy 9.3-mile path that winds through Woodward Park and along the bluffs of the San Joaquin River, offering pleasant views. Another great option is the Old Town Trail, which provides a straightforward ride through natural settings and connects to charming Old Town Clovis.

Fresno County's routes offer access to stunning natural beauty. You can encounter majestic waterfalls like Grizzly Falls or Mist Falls. Many routes also feature picturesque river views, such as the Middle Fork Kings River or the Foot bridge over San Joaquin River. The region is also a gateway to national parks, offering glimpses of ancient giant sequoia groves and colossal granite canyons.

Yes, there are several circular touring cycling routes available. A popular choice is the Fresno to Millerton Lake loop via Old Town Trail, a moderate 44.5-mile path that blends natural settings with urban areas. For a shorter, easy option, consider the Lewis S. Eaton Bike Trail Loop.

Fresno County enjoys over 300 days of sunshine annually, making it suitable for touring cycling much of the year. Spring is particularly beautiful, especially for experiencing the Fresno County Blossom Trail with its vibrant orchards. Fall offers pleasant temperatures and changing foliage. While summer can be hot in the valley, higher elevation routes in the Sierra Nevada provide cooler conditions. Winters are generally mild, allowing for cycling on lower elevation trails.

The touring cycling routes in Fresno County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from agricultural landscapes and river bluffs to scenic mountain foothills, and appreciate the variety of options for different ability levels.

Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Fresno County offers routes with significant elevation gains and technical descents, particularly in the Sierra Nevada foothills and mountains. Examples include the difficult Hume Lake to Grizzly Falls via Kings Canyon Scenic Byway or the Shaver Lake to Huntington Lake route, which features substantial climbs and stunning mountain vistas.

Yes, some touring cycling routes in Fresno County provide access to the majestic giant sequoia groves. For instance, the difficult Shaver Lake to McKinley Grove of Giant Sequoias route allows you to cycle towards these ancient wonders, offering a truly unique experience amidst the towering trees.

Many touring cycling routes in Fresno County feature beautiful lake and river views. The Lewis S. Eaton Bike Trail follows the San Joaquin River. Routes like Sanger, California to Pine Flat Lake lead to scenic Pine Flat Lake, while others explore areas around Shaver Lake and Hume Lake, providing picturesque waterside cycling opportunities.

Parking availability varies by route. For urban and park trails like the Lewis S. Eaton Bike Trail or those near Old Town Clovis, designated parking lots are generally available. For routes venturing into more remote areas or national forests, check specific trailhead information or local regulations. It's always advisable to research parking options for your chosen starting point in advance.

Most local and urban bike paths in Fresno County do not require special permits for cycling. However, if your touring route takes you into national parks (like Yosemite, Sequoia, or Kings Canyon) or national forests, entry fees may apply, and specific regulations regarding cycling on certain roads or trails might be in place. Always check the official websites of these parks or forests for the most current information before your ride.

While popular routes like the Lewis S. Eaton Bike Trail can see more traffic, many of Fresno County's 46 touring cycling routes offer a sense of tranquility, especially those venturing into the foothills and mountains. Exploring routes like Kaiser Peak loop or those around the less-trafficked parts of the Sierra National Forest can provide a more secluded touring experience away from the crowds.