The best cycling routes around Oakland
4.6
(94)
1,950
riders
107
rides
Touring cycling around Oakland offers a diverse landscape for riders, characterized by its extensive waterfront along the San Francisco Bay and the rolling hills of the East Bay. The region features a mix of urban pathways, dedicated bike trails, and routes through regional parks with varying elevations. Cyclists can navigate flat, paved sections along the Bay Trail or explore more challenging ascents into the hills, providing a range of experiences for different skill levels.
Best touring cycling routes around Oakland
- The most popular touring cycling route is San Francisco Bay Trail: Berkeley and Richmond Loop, a 33.7 miles (54.2 km) trail that takes 3 hours 10 minutes to complete, offering extensive bay views.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is San Francisco Bay Trail: Alameda Loop, a moderate 27.1 miles (43.6 km) path that follows the waterfront around Alameda.
- Local touring cyclists also love the East Ridge and West Ridge Loop, a 13.0 miles (20.9 km) trail leading through forested ridges, often completed in about 1 hour 27 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Oakland is defined by coastal paths, urban routes, and forested hills, with options for easy bike trails and more challenging climbs. The network offers routes suitable for various ability levels, from beginner cycling routes to more difficult ascents.
- The routes in Oakland are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 90 reviews. More than 1,900 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Oakland's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
5.0
(7)
58
riders
54.2km
03:10
150m
150m
Cycle the 33.7-mile San Francisco Bay Trail: Berkeley and Richmond Loop, a moderate route offering expansive bay views and flat, paved paths
4.4
(5)
32
riders
43.6km
02:30
70m
70m
Cycle the moderate 27.1-mile San Francisco Bay Trail: Alameda Loop, enjoying bay views and diverse scenery in 2 hours and 30 minutes.
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4.7
(7)
41
riders
20.9km
01:27
400m
390m
Embark on the East Ridge and West Ridge Loop, a moderate touring cycling route spanning 13.0 miles (20.9 km) with an elevation gain of 1300 feet (396 metres). This loop takes about 1 hour and 27 minutes to complete, offering a dynamic ride through Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park. You will experience varied scenery, from the cool shade of redwood forests to open ridge-top vistas, including views over the Upper San Leandro Reservoir. Expect wide fire roads and doubletrack sections, often lined with eucalyptus trees, providing a blend of natural beauty and physical challenge.
When planning your visit, be aware that while much of the route features smooth fire roads, conditions can vary. Some parts may have exposed roots, rocks, or rutted sections, especially after rain, which can lead to muddy and slick spots. If you are on a heavier touring bike, you might find the steeper climbs demanding and some descents technically challenging. Always check recent trail reports for current conditions before you head out to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.
This route is a great way to explore the diverse ecosystem of Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park, where you can keep an eye out for local wildlife and wildflowers. The combination of shaded forest paths and expansive ridge views makes it a notable option for touring cyclists seeking a good workout amidst natural surroundings. It provides a comprehensive experience of the park's varied landscapes, making it a popular choice for those looking to connect with nature close to the city.
12
riders
43.1km
02:42
170m
170m
Cycle the San Francisco Bay Trail: Oakland and Treasure Island Loop, a moderate 26.8-mile route with panoramic bay and city views.
4.3
(3)
4
riders
27.2km
01:57
570m
570m
Cycle a difficult 16.9-mile loop from Rockridge BART to Canyon Redwoods Grove, gaining 1860 feet through redwood forests.
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Tips from the Community
The building was part of the 1939 World Expo and designed to become an airline terminal afterwards, but due to World War II the whole island was converted to a Navy facility for 55 years. The Treasure Island museum opened in 1975 with the gigantic mural by Nesbitt covering the entire interior hall. It has been renovated and reopened in 2024, and provides detailed background about the geo-structural challenges of the 30 year project to redevelop Treasure Island from 400 to 6000 residents by 2035, and its adaptations to sea level rise.
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Miller/Knox Lagoon park with a network of trails, including a paved bike loop around the lake, and several gravel trails on both sides of Dornan Drive
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Port View Park has a fishing pier and a great vista point. Here, visitors can take in the view across San Francisco Bay and see the city skyline all the way to the south. There are restrooms here and a picnic area.
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it is beautiful to cycle over the Bay Bridge
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is a lot of fun here and the viewing point is a nice place where many bikers stop and enjoy
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great to cycle here, I really enjoyed it
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Pinehurst Road leads along the upper reservoir from the crest all the way to the junction with Canyon Rd. There are only a few open viewpoints to see the Upper San Leandro Reservoir, as the vegetation blocks the view in most places.
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Heinhold's First and Last Chance Saloon and Pioneer Cabin have been open since July of 1884. The saloon's interior decorations reflect events from Vietnam, World War Two, Prohibition, and World War One. Inside seating is cozy, and outdoor seating on the patio is great on a sunny day. Swing by and grab a craft beer on your ride!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Oakland?
Oakland offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 110 different tours available on komoot. These routes cater to various preferences, from easy rides to more challenging ascents.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Oakland's cycling routes?
Oakland's touring cycling routes feature a diverse landscape. You'll find extensive waterfront paths along the San Francisco Bay, offering flat, paved sections, as well as routes through the rolling hills of the East Bay with varying elevations and more challenging climbs. The region blends urban pathways with dedicated bike trails and routes through regional parks.
Are there options for less experienced cyclists or families?
Yes, Oakland has numerous options suitable for less experienced cyclists and families. Approximately 35 of the available touring cycling routes are rated as easy, providing gentle terrain and manageable distances. These often include sections of the Bay Trail, which are generally flat and well-maintained.
What about more challenging touring cycling routes in Oakland?
For those seeking a challenge, Oakland offers about 34 difficult touring cycling routes. These often involve significant elevation gains through the East Bay hills, such as the Rockridge BART to Canyon Redwoods Grove loop, which features over 560 meters of ascent.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Oakland?
Yes, many of Oakland's touring cycling routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the San Francisco Bay Trail: Alameda Loop, which circles the island, and the East Ridge and West Ridge Loop through forested areas.
What do other cyclists say about the touring routes in Oakland?
The touring cycling routes in Oakland are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 90 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse scenery, from bay views to forested hills, and the variety of routes suitable for different skill levels.
Are there scenic viewpoints or interesting landmarks along the routes?
Yes, Oakland's touring cycling routes often pass by or offer access to several scenic viewpoints and landmarks. You can enjoy views from Pioneer Park, Telegraph Hill, or cycle past Lake Merritt. The San Francisco Bay Trail: Oakland and Treasure Island Loop offers stunning vistas of the bay and city skyline.
Can I bring my dog on touring cycling routes in Oakland?
Many parks and trails in the Oakland area are dog-friendly, typically requiring dogs to be on a leash. However, specific regulations can vary by park or trail section. It's always best to check the local park rules for the specific route you plan to ride to ensure it accommodates your furry companion.
How can I reach cycling routes in Oakland using public transport?
Oakland is well-served by public transportation, including BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) and AC Transit buses, many of which accommodate bicycles. Several routes, like the Rockridge BART to Canyon Redwoods Grove loop, start conveniently near BART stations, making it easy to access trailheads without a car.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Oakland?
Oakland generally enjoys mild weather year-round, making it suitable for touring cycling in most seasons. Spring and fall offer particularly pleasant temperatures and clear skies. Summer can be warm, especially inland, but coastal routes often benefit from cooler bay breezes. Winters are typically mild and wet, so be prepared for rain if cycling during those months.
Are there any longer touring cycling routes for endurance riders?
For those looking for longer rides, Oakland and the surrounding Bay Area offer extensive options. The San Francisco Bay Trail: Berkeley and Richmond Loop is a substantial 54.2 km (33.7 miles) route, providing an excellent endurance challenge with continuous bay views.
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