The best cycling routes around Oakhurst
4.0
(1)
42
riders
10
rides
Touring cycling routes around Oakhurst, California, are set within the Sierra Nevada foothills, offering diverse landscapes for cyclists. The region features winding roads through towering pines and mountain views, with terrain ranging from paved paths to packed dirt. Oakhurst serves as a gateway to Yosemite National Park, providing access to iconic granite cliffs and giant sequoias, while also bordering the vast Sierra National Forest and the serene Bass Lake. This varied topography supports both challenging climbs and scenic, less strenuous rides.
Best touring cycling routes around Oakhurst
- The most popular touring cycling route is Oakhurst, California to Bass Lake loop, a 32.6 miles (52.5 km) trail that takes about 3 hours 41 minutes to complete. This route offers views of Bass Lake and the surrounding Sierra National Forest.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Oakhurst, California to Corlieu Falls & Mariposa Grove, a difficult 33.3 miles (53.5 km) path. This route leads towards the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias and includes views of Corlieu Falls.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Oakhurst, California to Wassama Round House State Historic Park, an 11.9 miles (19.2 km) trail leading through varied terrain, often completed in about 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Oakhurst is defined by Sierra Nevada foothills, pine forests, and lake views. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate paths to difficult climbs.
- The routes in Oakhurst are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.0 stars from 1 review. More than 40 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Oakhurst's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
2
riders
9.73km
00:47
250m
250m
The Washburn Trail offers a moderate touring cycling experience that leads you directly into the majestic Mariposa Grove, a truly special place. You'll cycle through a beautiful forested landscape, with the anticipation building as you approach the towering giant sequoias, including the famous Grizzly Giant. It's a journey that combines a pleasant ride with the awe-inspiring presence of ancient trees, making it a memorable outing for any nature lover.
This 6.0-mile (9.7 km) touring cycling route involves 816 feet (249 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 46 minutes. Given its popularity and location, arriving early is often the best strategy for parking and a more serene experience. Always carry sufficient water, especially on warmer days, and be aware of any park-specific regulations or seasonal access changes.
Located in Mariposa County, this trail provides a fantastic opportunity to experience the unique ecosystem of a giant sequoia grove. These ancient trees are a testament to nature's grandeur and offer a profound sense of scale and history. The area is a significant natural landmark, making the Washburn Trail a popular choice for those seeking both a good ride and an unforgettable natural encounter.
4.0
(1)
4
riders
52.5km
03:41
980m
980m
This difficult 32.6-mile touring cycling loop from Oakhurst to Bass Lake offers challenging climbs and beautiful Sierra National Forest scen
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4
riders
53.5km
03:57
1,210m
1,210m
Embark on a challenging touring bicycle ride from Oakhurst, California, covering 33.3 miles (53.5 km) with a significant 3983 feet (1214 metres) of elevation gain. This difficult route, estimated to take 3 hours and 57 minutes, winds through scenic foothills, offering views of towering pines and natural rivers. You will experience the thrill of cycling towards the majestic Corlieu Falls, where water plunges 80 feet through a dense forest. The journey continues to Mariposa Grove, home to ancient giant sequoia trees, including the impressive 1,800-year-old Grizzly Giant.
Plan your touring bicycle adventure during the best seasons, which are from March through June and again from September through November, for pleasant weather. Starting your ride early in the morning is highly recommended to avoid midday heat and enjoy the soft morning light. Be prepared for some unpaved sections along the way where you might need to dismount and push your bike. Remember that exploring the giant sequoias in Mariposa Grove typically involves walking on established hiking trails.
This route offers a unique connection between Oakhurst and two of Yosemite National Park's most iconic natural attractions. You will cycle past the beautiful Lewis Creek National Recreation Trail, which provides access to Corlieu Falls. Further into your journey, you will encounter the Mariposa Grove, a protected area dedicated to preserving the magnificent giant sequoia trees. This challenging ride is a rewarding test of endurance, blending natural beauty with a significant physical effort.
19.2km
01:15
270m
270m
This moderate 11.9-mile touring bicycle route from Oakhurst to Wassama Round House State Historic Park offers cultural insights.
9
riders
40.2km
02:39
600m
610m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Angel Falls is one of two waterfalls in this area. The Willow Creek cascades over some slick rock, carving a little gorge into the rock. Another waterfall is Devil's Slide further north of here. Ultimately, Willow Creek flows into Bass Lake.
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A shuttle bus takes you here every 15 to 20 minutes from the main parking lot. It is particularly important to note that you now need to register for Yosemite NP because the park is designed to protect against crowds. This must be done online in advance. The entrance reservation can be made here: https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/reservations.htm#:~:text=A%20reservation%20is%20required%20to,August%2017%20through%20October%2027.
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Pure fascination. It's great to see the ancient and gigantic trees.
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Wishon Cove is an inlet on Bass Lake whose shore has a campground with over 40 sites that is managed by the National Forest Service.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of touring cycling routes can I find around Oakhurst?
Oakhurst offers a diverse range of touring cycling routes, from moderate paths to challenging climbs. You'll find routes winding through the Sierra Nevada foothills, past towering pines, and offering mountain views. The terrain varies, including paved paths and packed dirt, catering to different cycling preferences and fitness levels.
When is the best time of year for touring cycling in Oakhurst?
The optimal seasons for touring cycling near Oakhurst are typically from March through June and September through November. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and you'll encounter fewer crowds, making for a more enjoyable riding experience.
Are there any touring cycling routes that feature waterfalls?
Yes, the region boasts routes where you can experience beautiful waterfalls. For instance, the Oakhurst, California to Corlieu Falls & Mariposa Grove route leads towards the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias and includes views of Corlieu Falls. The nearby Lewis Creek Trail also features Red Rock Falls.
Can I find any circular touring cycling routes in the Oakhurst area?
Yes, there are excellent circular routes available. A popular option is the Oakhurst, California to Bass Lake loop, which is a difficult 32.6-mile (52.5 km) trail offering views of Bass Lake and the surrounding Sierra National Forest.
What are some notable natural landmarks I can explore on a touring bike near Oakhurst?
Oakhurst is known as the 'Gateway to Yosemite,' providing access to iconic natural features. You can cycle towards the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, where you'll find magnificent trees like the Grizzly Giant and the California Tunnel Tree. The Sierra Nevada foothills themselves offer stunning mountain views.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in Oakhurst?
While many routes involve significant elevation, there are options suitable for a more relaxed pace. The Oakhurst, California to Wassama Round House State Historic Park route is a moderate 11.9-mile (19.2 km) trail that offers a relatively easy ride through varied terrain, making it a good choice for families looking for a less strenuous outing.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Oakhurst?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from winding roads through pine forests to the serene beauty of Bass Lake, and the rewarding challenge of routes with significant elevation gains.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes around Oakhurst?
The terrain around Oakhurst is quite varied, reflecting its location in the Sierra Nevada foothills. You'll encounter a mix of paved roads, packed dirt paths, and occasionally rocky sections. Routes can range from relatively smooth surfaces to more rugged paths, offering different experiences for road and touring cyclists.
Are there any historical sites accessible by touring bike from Oakhurst?
Yes, you can cycle to the Wassama Round House State Historic Park. This site holds cultural significance for California's Native American population and is accessible via a moderate 11.9-mile (19.2 km) route from Oakhurst.
How many touring cycling routes are available in the Oakhurst region?
There are 8 touring cycling routes documented around Oakhurst, offering a range of experiences for cyclists. These include 4 moderate and 4 difficult routes, ensuring options for various skill and fitness levels.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. Oakhurst offers several challenging routes with significant elevation gain. For instance, the Bass Lake – Bass Lake loop from Bass Lake is a difficult 40.2 km route with over 600 meters of climbing, providing a rewarding experience for experienced touring cyclists.
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