4.6
(70)
522
riders
25
rides
Touring cycling around South Gate offers a network of routes primarily following the region's river corridors. The landscape is characterized by relatively flat terrain, making it accessible for various skill levels. These routes often utilize paved paths alongside the Los Angeles River and San Gabriel River, providing urban greenway experiences. The area's topography is generally low-lying, with minimal elevation changes.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
3.8
(5)
29
riders
53.6km
03:06
60m
60m
Embark on a moderate touring cycling adventure along the Los Angeles and San Gabriel Rivers Trail Loop, a 33.3 miles (53.6 km) route that offers a unique blend of urban and natural scenery. You will gain 211 feet (64 metres) in elevation over approximately 3 hours and 5 minutes of riding. As you pedal, you'll see the distant San Gabriel Mountains to the north and pass through areas like the Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area, which features a reservoir and nature center, before reaching the Pacific Ocean at Long Beach City Beach.
When planning your visit, be aware that much of the route offers little shade, so prepare for significant sun exposure, especially in drier sections. Onshore headwinds can also build throughout the day, requiring more effort as you ride towards the mountains. The trail is almost entirely off-street, providing uninterrupted pedaling without traffic concerns, but some women riders advise against riding alone in certain northern sections.
This loop combines sections of the Los Angeles River Greenway and the San Gabriel River Trail, creating an interesting contrast between channelized river sections and areas that retain natural riparian vegetation. You will also pass through community parks and the large El Dorado East Regional Park, showcasing the diverse environments found along these important urban waterways.
7
riders
47.9km
02:47
60m
60m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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40.7km
02:22
110m
110m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
68
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(6)
36
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around South Gate
The Rio Hondo Bike Bridge is an interesting structure that connects the bike trails that runs on either side of the Rio Hondo.
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Limited cars use the roads so it is nice to get away from traffic
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The trail is part paved concrete and part packed dirt, and takes you through a series of parks along the San Gabriel River. The trail runs for a mile and a half and is interrupted by only two road crossings.
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Wonderfully wide beach, the bike path right in the middle.
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Starting at the mouth of the San Gabriel River one mile to the west, this is one of 4 main bike paths radiating inland from the coast.
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Seal Beach is a sandy beach sandwiched between Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge and Naple Island. The pier highlights the area, while most of the city streets running north to south provide access to the beach sands. You can even jog down to the water and run on the more packed sand at the shoreline.
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Highly recommend cycling around LA. It's hard to believe, but the city is more bike-friendly than some cities in Germany. Riding in the footsteps of the Terminator along the LA River in particular is a lot of fun and there is also very little traffic :-)
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One of the largest urban parks in the valley, with lakes, meadows, sports fields, picnic areas, etc.
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There are over 25 touring cycling routes around South Gate, offering a variety of options for different skill levels. You'll find 12 easy routes, 13 moderate routes, and a few more challenging options.
The terrain for touring cycling in South Gate is predominantly flat, making it accessible for various skill levels. Routes often follow paved paths along river corridors, providing urban greenway experiences with minimal elevation changes.
Yes, South Gate offers several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners. The flat terrain and paved paths along the river corridors are very forgiving. For example, the Los Angeles River Loop is a moderate route that is generally considered accessible for those new to touring cycling, offering a smooth ride through urban river corridors.
Many of the touring cycling routes in South Gate are designed as loops. A popular option is the Los Angeles and San Gabriel Rivers Trail Loop, which combines two major river paths for an extended circular ride. Another great choice is the San Gabriel River Loop, offering continuous riding along the river.
Absolutely. For those looking for longer distances, routes like the Los Angeles and San Gabriel Rivers Trail Loop cover over 33 miles (53 km), combining extensive river paths for an extended touring experience. The Los Angeles River Bike Trail โ Los Angeles River Greenway loop from Bell Gardens is another excellent long-distance option.
Touring cycling in South Gate primarily offers urban greenway scenery, following the region's river corridors. You'll experience paved paths alongside the Los Angeles River and San Gabriel River, often with views of the urban landscape interspersed with natural riverine environments. You might also encounter features like the Rio Hondo Bike Bridge.
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in South Gate are well-suited for families. The flat, paved paths along the river greenways provide a safe and enjoyable environment for cyclists of all ages. The minimal elevation changes make for a less strenuous ride, perfect for a family outing.
The touring cycling routes in South Gate are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained river paths, the accessibility of the routes, and the opportunity for continuous riding through urban green spaces.
The best time for touring cycling in South Gate is generally during the spring and fall months when temperatures are mild and comfortable. Winter can also be pleasant, though occasional rain showers might occur. Summers can be hot, so early morning or late afternoon rides are recommended during those months.
Given the urban nature of South Gate and its river greenways, parking is typically available at various access points along the river trails or in nearby public parks. It's advisable to check specific starting points for designated parking areas.
While cycling, you'll be close to several points of interest. You can pass by the Rio Hondo Bike Bridge, which is a notable landmark along the river. Further afield, but accessible, are attractions like the Exposition Park Rose Garden and the Angels Flight Funicular Railway, offering diverse experiences beyond the trails.
While the majority of routes in South Gate are easy to moderate due to the flat terrain, there is at least one route classified as difficult. These routes might involve longer distances or slightly more varied surfaces, offering a greater challenge for experienced touring cyclists. For a longer ride, consider the Bosque del Rio Hondo โ Rio Hondo Bike Bridge loop from Lakewood Boulevard.


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