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United States
California
Marin County

Novato

The best cycling routes around Novato

4.7

(36)

406

riders

49

rides

Touring cycling around Novato offers diverse landscapes, including rolling hills, marshlands, and scenic bay views. The region features significant open spaces and preserves, providing varied terrain for outdoor activities. These areas are characterized by a mix of flat paths and routes with notable elevation gains. Novato's geography supports a range of touring cycling experiences.

Best touring cycling routes around Novato

  • The most popular touring cycling route is San Francisco Bay Trail Loop, an 11.4 miles (18.3 km) trail that…

Last updated: April 24, 2026

9

riders

#1.

San Francisco Bay Trail Loop

18.3km

01:15

110m

110m

Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

4

riders

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard
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Popular around Novato

Bay Area Ridge Trail β€” Circumnavigating the San Francisco Bay

Hiking around Novato

Road Cycling Routes around Novato

Running Trails around Novato

MTB Trails around Novato

Gravel biking around Novato

Other adventures around Novato

Bay Area Ridge Trail β€” Circumnavigating the San Francisco Bay

Cycling Collection by

Andrus

Tips from the Community

Andrus
May 30, 2025, Nicasio Reservoir β€” East Entrance

Created by the construction of Seeger Dam on the Nicasio Creek in 1961, this shallow reservoir covers 845 acres and is part of the Marin Municipal Water District

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This is a small park with a 10-acre pond and some trails along the shore. There are usually quite a few birds around, you might even spot a large pelican from time to time.

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The Dixie Schoohouse dates back to 1864, it has been in continuous use since its construction, making it the oldest in Marin County. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.

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Usually some vendors at this intersection for some fresh fruit! Views of Black Mountain are beautiful.

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January 15, 2024, Novato SMART Pathway

This path is a nice paved multi-use route lined with trees and shrubbery. It is part of the SMART Pathway system and divides into multiple segments for easy cycling access across downtown and the valley. This portion runs parallel to the commuter rail line south of downtown Novato for 0.9 miles and passes by Slade Park before ending on Rowland Way.

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October 30, 2023, Miwok Park & Museum

Miwok Park is a beautiful 22-acre area with a creek running through bay laurels and redwoods. It is named for local Indigenous people and serves as the home to the Museum of the American Indian. A replica of a traditional Miwok home is located outside of the museum, along with a garden containing plants that were important to the Miwok. There are two bocce courts, a playground, a picnic area, and an expansive grassy lawn, making it a nice place to stop and stretch your legs.

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Atherton Avenue connects downtown Novato to Highway 37 and is a popular shortcut road for cars and bicycles. It has a nice wide bike lane, offering a safe, direct passage without worrying about heavy traffic and a longer route on Highway 101.

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October 29, 2023, Bahia Oak Park

This is a nice small neighborhood park with an open space lawn area next to a lovely playground surrounded by paved pathways perfect for cycling. There are benches, picnic tables and a drinking fountain with a water bottle filler.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many touring cycling routes are available in Novato?

Novato offers a diverse network of over 40 touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 17 easy, 13 moderate, and 10 difficult options, ensuring there's a ride for everyone.

Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Novato?

Yes, Novato has 17 easy touring cycling routes. A great option for a relaxed ride is the Scottsdale Pond and SMART Pathway Loop, which is nearly 9 km long and features minimal elevation gain. The Bay Trail in Hamilton Field is also known for being kid-friendly, flat, and accessible.

What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while touring cycling in Novato?

Novato's touring cycling routes showcase a rich variety of landscapes, including rolling hills, expansive marshlands, and scenic bay views. You'll encounter diverse natural habitats, open spaces, and preserves, offering a dynamic backdrop for your rides.

Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Novato?

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Novato are designed as loops. For example, the San Francisco Bay Trail Loop offers diverse scenery, while the Rush Creek and Bahia Trail Loop takes you through marsh and oak landscapes. Another popular choice is the Old Town Novato & Rush Creek Preserve loop, which combines urban areas with scenic wetlands.

What are some notable natural attractions or landmarks I can explore near Novato's cycling routes?

Novato is surrounded by beautiful natural areas. You can visit Stafford Lake Park for picnicking and fishing, or explore the wetlands of Rush Creek Preserve for birdwatching. Other highlights include the Nicasio Reservoir and the unique Pygmy (dwarf) sargent cypress forest.

What do other touring cyclists say about their experience in Novato?

The touring cycling routes in Novato are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from flat paths to challenging climbs, and the beautiful scenery encompassing rolling hills, marshlands, and bay views.

Are there any challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders in Novato?

Yes, Novato offers 10 difficult touring cycling routes for experienced riders. A significant challenge is the Point Reyes–Petaluma Bridge – Cross-Marin Trailhead loop from Novato Hamilton, which covers over 83 km and includes substantial elevation gains, leading into the picturesque hills of West Marin County.

What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Novato?

Novato generally offers a pleasant climate for cycling. While specific seasonal recommendations aren't provided, the diverse landscapes are enjoyable year-round. For detailed weather information and seasonal tips, you might consult resources like Visit Novato's biking section.

Are there places to rent bikes or find cycling support in Novato?

Yes, Novato has a supportive cycling environment. You can find bike rental services and bike shops, such as Bicycle BrΓΌstop, which caters to the local cycling community. This makes it convenient for visitors to access equipment and support for their touring cycling adventures.

Can I access Novato's touring cycling routes using public transport?

While specific public transport access points for all routes are not detailed, Novato is part of Marin County, which has some public transport options. For routes like the Scottsdale Pond and SMART Pathway Loop, which utilizes the SMART Pathway, public transport connections might be available. It's advisable to check local transit schedules for specific trailheads.

Are there any historical sites accessible via touring cycling routes in Novato?

Yes, Novato offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Olompali State Historic Park, covering 700 acres, features hiking trails and insights into Native American sites and early California ranches. While not directly on a touring cycling route listed, its proximity makes it an interesting stop for those exploring the area.

Where can I find more information about Novato's general outdoor activities?

For a broader overview of outdoor activities in Novato, including hiking and other recreational opportunities, you can visit the official Visit Novato website. This resource provides additional context on the region's diverse offerings.

Most popular routes around Novato

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