The best cycling routes in San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge

There are over 60 touring cycling routes available in the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy, moderate, and a few more challenging options.

Yes, the refuge offers many easy, flat, and paved routes perfect for beginners and families. For instance, the Sweetwater River – Sweetwater Bikeway loop from Palomar Street is an easy 15.7-mile trail that takes you through wetlands and alongside the Sweetwater River. Another great option is the Glorietta Bay Park – Bayshore Bikeway loop from Coronado Cays, which is also an easy ride.

The refuge is a birdwatching paradise, home to over 200 species. While cycling, you might spot migratory terns, snowy egrets, ospreys, burrowing owls, and even endangered species like the California least tern or Ridgway's rail, especially in the preserved wetlands and salt ponds. The Bayshore Bikeway – Salt Flats Section offers continuous views of diverse coastal habitats where wildlife is abundant.

Many routes in the refuge are loops, providing a convenient way to explore without retracing your path. A popular moderate circular route is the Bayshore Bikeway – Silver Strand State Beach loop from 24th Street, which offers continuous views of San Diego Bay and the Coronado Bridge. For a different scenic loop, consider the Sweetwater Bikeway – Otay Reservoir Dam loop from 24th Street.

Beyond the natural beauty, you can explore several points of interest. The Bayshore Bikeway – Salt Flats Section offers continuous views of diverse coastal habitats. You might also encounter the Pond 10 Bird Mural, a unique artistic highlight. The Bernardo Shores Spur is a relaxing connector trail alongside Pond 10A, lined with palm trees. For more information on the refuge itself, you can visit the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge highlight page.

The San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge is generally pleasant for cycling year-round due to its mild coastal climate. However, spring and fall offer particularly comfortable temperatures and are excellent for birdwatching as migratory species pass through. Summers can be warm, so early mornings or late afternoons are ideal during those months.

Parking is available at various access points around the refuge. For example, the Swiss Park Staging Area is a convenient spot to begin your ride. Many routes, like those starting from 24th Street or Palomar Street, also have nearby parking options, though availability can vary.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 100 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning panoramic views of San Diego Bay, the downtown skyline, and the Coronado Bridge, as well as the diverse coastal habitats and abundant wildlife observation opportunities. The generally flat, paved surfaces also make for enjoyable and accessible rides.

While many routes are easy to moderate, some offer longer distances. For a moderate ride with significant distance, consider the View of San Diego Bay – Silver Strand State Beach loop from 24th Street, which covers over 24 miles and offers expansive bay views. The refuge's terrain is mostly flat, so challenges typically come from distance rather than elevation.

While the refuge itself is a natural area, the cycling routes, particularly the Bayshore Bikeway, pass through or near urban areas and towns like Coronado and Imperial Beach. You'll find opportunities for cafes, restrooms, and other amenities in these adjacent communities. It's always a good idea to carry water and snacks, especially on longer stretches within the refuge.

Absolutely. The refuge is defined by its urban coastal setting, offering touring cyclists unique routes that traverse preserved wetlands, coastal salt marshes, and intertidal mudflats. The primary cycling path, the Bayshore Bikeway, nearly encircles San Diego Bay, providing continuous bay views and a distinct coastal cycling experience.

Given the coastal environment, layers are often recommended as temperatures can change. Sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses) is essential. Bring plenty of water, especially on longer rides, and snacks. A bike repair kit and a map or GPS device are also advisable. Binoculars can enhance your wildlife viewing experience.