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Kern County

Fairfax

The best cycling routes around Fairfax

By Fede from komoot

·

Updated June 6, 2026

If you've ever tried to plan touring cycling around Fairfax, you know how overwhelming the options can be. With so many trails and paths, it's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort. That's where komoot comes in: our community has explored, ridden, and reviewed countless routes, and we've curated this guide to save you the guesswork and point you directly to the rides that deliver.

Fairfax County offers a fantastic mix for touring cyclists, from wide, paved paths to natural surface sections winding through dense forests and along picturesque lakes and rivers. You'll find everything from easy, flat rides to routes with steady climbs and varied terrain, connecting urban areas with tranquil countryside. The region's extensive network of trails, including the popular W&OD Trail and the Gerry Connolly Cross County Trail, makes it a standout destination for exploring on two wheels.

For a classic experience, we'd start with the The Park at River Walk – Yokuts Park loop from East Bakersfield, a moderate 32.6 miles (52.4 km) route that offers a great overview of the area's parklands and riverside paths. If you're looking for something a bit shorter and easier, the Panorama Park – Panorama Park loop from Bakersfield is a fantastic choice at 16.1 miles (25.9 km), perfect for a relaxed ride through green spaces. With more than 50 touring cyclists already using komoot to explore Fairfax, you're in good company.

If you only do 3 of these routes

  1. 1

    The Park at River Walk – Yokuts Park loop from East Bakersfield
  2. 2

    The Park at River Walk – Kern River Bikeway loop from Bakersfield
  3. 3

    The Park at River Walk – Yokuts Park loop from Burger King Parking Lot

Compare these routes at a glance

Trail

Distance

Elevation

Difficulty

The Park at River Walk – Yokuts Park loop from East Bakersfield

52.4 km

280 m

Moderate

The Park at River Walk – Kern River Bikeway loop from Bakersfield

47.4 km

40 m

Moderate

The Park at River Walk – Yokuts Park loop from Burger King Parking Lot

34.9 km

40 m

Easy

Hart Memorial Park – Lake Ming Trail loop from Bakersfield College

40.8 km

330 m

Moderate

Panorama Park – Panorama Park loop from Bakersfield

25.9 km

150 m

Easy

1.

The Park at River Walk – Yokuts Park loop from East Bakersfield

52.4km

03:05

280m

280m

Embark on a diverse touring cycling adventure through East Bakersfield with The Park at River Walk – Yokuts Park loop. This route guides you along scenic river parkways, offering views of the Kern River and its vibrant greenery, including the two picturesque lakes within The Park at River Walk. You'll traverse varied terrain, from well-maintained asphalt paths along the Kern River Parkway to some unpaved sections, passing through nature preserves where you might spot local wildlife like waterfowl and roadrunners, as well as developed areas and even oilfields contrasting with the Panorama Vista Preserve. It's a journey that blends urban connectivity with natural beauty.

This moderate 32.6-mile (52.4 km) loop, with 905 feet (276 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 5 minutes to complete. The route is well-integrated into Bakersfield's cycling infrastructure, connecting key recreational areas like The Park at River Walk and Yokuts Park. Many sections of the Kern River Parkway Trail are paved and allow for continuous riding without car crossings, making for an efficient and enjoyable experience. While specific parking information isn't detailed, both parks serve as convenient access points; consider starting early to make the most of your ride.

The loop is a testament to Bakersfield's commitment to cycling, offering a highly rated experience for those seeking a moderately challenging ride with varied scenery. It's an excellent way to explore the region's diverse habitats, from lush riverbanks to open conservation areas, and to appreciate the contrast between natural landscapes and developed areas. The route's connectivity and well-maintained paths make it a standout option for touring cyclists in the area, providing a rewarding outing for those with good fitness.

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Tips from the Community

Andrus
June 18, 2025, Panorama Park

This well maintained park is set on the cliffs above the Kern River. There are plenty of trails, benches, and open spaces. You can also find water fountains if you need to refill your bottles.

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The Kern River Parkway runs for miles through Bakersfield, crossing a number of varied habitats. The trail passes along nature preserves, city parks, and developed areas, each offering their own unique elements to the trail.

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The Park at River Walk, also known as River Walk Park, spans 32 acres and is open to the public. Visitors can enjoy two lakes, a stretch of the Kern River, the Spectrum Amphitheater, and the Kern River Bike Trail. There is plenty of parking and great views.

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Sue
June 19, 2024, Panorama Park

This urban park is well-maintained, with several walking trails, benches, drinking fountains, and plenty of green space. It's a great place to picnic, hike, or trek down the hill to enjoy the Kern River. There are spectacular views of the city, mountains, and oilfields, especially on a clear day.

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Sue
June 19, 2024, The Bluffs

This is a fantastic extension of the park with a wide flat path along the steep cliffside. With oil rigs and ranches as its backdrop, there are plenty of benches to sit, relax, and take in the scenery. Here, you can enjoy the views of the oilfields contrasting with the lush Panorama Vista Preserve next to them, which is used as a wildlife rehabilitation area.

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This 32-acre park is home to an amphitheater, two ponds, trails, fountains, picnic areas, BBQs, and more. It's a great spot to bring the family whether you stay for the day or are just passing through.

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The Kern River Parkway runs for miles through Bakersfield, crossing a number of varied habitats. The trail passes along nature preserves, city parks, and developed areas, each offering their own unique elements to the trail.

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Bakersfield's Fox Theater has been in operation since 1930. Originally built to screen films it is now a multi-use venue that plays hosts to all kinds of events and concerts. If you're spending a night or two in town check the calendar on their webpage and go to a show.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many touring cycling routes are available in Fairfax?

Fairfax offers a selection of 6 touring cycling routes, primarily centered around urban parks and riverine landscapes. These routes provide accessible cycling opportunities for various skill levels.

Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Fairfax?

Yes, Fairfax has routes suitable for beginners. For instance, the The Park at River Walk – Yokuts Park loop from Burger King Parking Lot is an easy 21.2-mile (34.1 km) trail that leads through park areas and along the river, often completed in under two hours.

What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Fairfax?

The terrain in Fairfax is characterized by well-maintained park trails, riverside paths, and urban green corridors. While significant elevation changes are not prominent, some routes include gentle inclines, contributing to varied cycling experiences. You'll find mostly paved paths with views of local water features.

Are there any long-distance touring cycling options in Fairfax?

For those looking for longer rides, the The Park at River Walk – Yokuts Park loop from East Bakersfield is a substantial 31.6-mile (50.8 km) route. Another excellent option is the The Park at River Walk – Yokuts Park loop from Bakersfield, which covers 28.6 miles (46.0 km) through urban green spaces and along the river.

What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Fairfax?

The touring cycling routes in Fairfax are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained park trails and the scenic views along the river, providing a pleasant and accessible outdoor experience.

Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Fairfax?

Many of the routes in Fairfax are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. Examples include the Hart Memorial Park – Hart Park Lake loop from East Bakersfield and the Panorama Park – The Bluffs loop from Bakersfield, both providing diverse scenery without needing to retrace your path.

When is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Fairfax?

Given the region's characteristics of urban parks and riverine landscapes, spring and fall generally offer the most comfortable temperatures for touring cycling in Fairfax. These seasons provide pleasant weather for enjoying the green spaces and water features without extreme heat or cold.

Are there any challenging touring cycling routes in Fairfax?

While Fairfax routes are generally not known for extreme elevation, some offer moderate challenges. The The Park at River Walk – Yokuts Park loop from East Bakersfield, for example, features a moderate elevation gain of approximately 265 meters over its 31.6-mile distance, providing a good workout.

Are the touring cycling routes in Fairfax suitable for families?

Yes, many routes are suitable for families, especially those looking for easy to moderate rides on paved paths. The focus on park trails and riverside areas makes them generally safe and enjoyable for cyclists of varying ages and abilities. The The Park at River Walk – Yokuts Park loop from Burger King Parking Lot is a particularly good option for a family-friendly outing.

What kind of scenic views can I expect along the touring cycling routes?

The touring cycling routes in Fairfax offer scenic views primarily of local water features and urban green spaces. You'll cycle alongside rivers and through established parklands, providing a refreshing natural backdrop within the urban environment.

Are there specific parking areas for accessing the touring cycling trails?

While specific parking details for all routes are not provided, many routes, such as the The Park at River Walk – Yokuts Park loop from Burger King Parking Lot, indicate starting points from accessible locations, suggesting convenient parking options are available near popular trailheads and parks.

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