The best traffic-free bike rides around Riverside

There are 28 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Riverside featured in this guide. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy rides to more challenging excursions.

The no-traffic routes around Riverside offer a diverse range of terrain. You can find flat, paved paths like the historic Victoria Avenue, which winds through orange groves, or sections of the extensive Santa Ana River Trail System. Other routes might take you through rolling hills, especially in areas like Temecula Wine Country, or offer more rugged sections towards Box Springs Mountain Reserve for those seeking a challenge.

Yes, there are 9 easy routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. A great option is the Greenwich Point Beach – East Coast Greenway loop from Riverside, which is relatively flat and covers 19.9 km. The historic Victoria Avenue is also known for its easy, shaded, and family-friendly characteristics.

Many routes offer beautiful scenery. You can enjoy views along the Santa Ana River Trail, panoramic cityscapes from Mount Rubidoux, or peaceful rides through citrus groves on Victoria Avenue. Other routes might take you through the picturesque vineyards of Temecula Wine Country or offer glimpses of desert landscapes. You might also pass by natural highlights such as Playland Lake or the Smith Cove.

While this guide focuses on no-traffic routes, some moderate options do include notable elevation gains. For example, the Mianus River Reservoir – Taconic Road loop from Riverside features over 649 meters of ascent over its 64.1 km distance. Cyclists looking for more challenging ascents might also find sections leading towards Box Springs Mountain Reserve rewarding, though these may involve varied terrain.

The no-traffic road cycling routes in Riverside are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 35 reviews. Cyclists often praise the peacefulness of these car-free paths, the diverse scenery, and the opportunity to explore the region's natural beauty and historic areas without vehicle interference.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Taconic Road – View of Rockwood Lake loop from Riverside, which is a moderate 52.4 km ride, and the shorter, easy Greenwich Point Beach – East Coast Greenway loop from Riverside.

Beyond natural beauty, you might encounter several points of interest. The historic Victoria Avenue itself is a landmark, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Other highlights in the vicinity include the Stamford Museum & Nature Center, the St. Catherine of Siena Church, and the Ring's End Bridge. The East Coast Greenway also offers a significant cycling pathway.

Riverside generally offers good cycling weather for much of the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures, ideal for longer rides. Summers can be hot, especially in desert-adjacent areas, so early morning or late afternoon rides are recommended. Winters are typically mild, making it a good escape from colder climates, though occasional rain showers can occur.

Yes, several no-traffic routes are very family-friendly. The historic Victoria Avenue, with its flat terrain and shaded sections through orange groves, is particularly well-suited for families. Easy routes like the Greenwich Point Beach – East Coast Greenway loop from Riverside also offer a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages.

Parking availability varies by route. Many popular trailheads, especially along the Santa Ana River Trail System or near parks like Mount Rubidoux, offer designated parking areas. For routes like Victoria Avenue, street parking in adjacent neighborhoods might be an option. It's always advisable to check specific route details or local park information for the most accurate parking guidance.