Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Ohlone Greenway
Road cycling
4.8
(19)
The Ohlone Greenway is a prominent 4.5 to 5.3-mile multi-use path in the East Bay region of the San Francisco Bay Area, California. This vital green corridor serves as a dedicated pedestrian and bicycle path, connecting the cities of Berkeley, Albany, El Cerrito, and Richmond. It notably runs alongside the elevated tracks of the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) Richmond line, offering a unique urban trail experience.
Visitors consistently praise the Ohlone Greenway for its smooth, paved surface and its separation from vehicle traffic, making it an ideal route for safe cycling and walking. Its role as a car-free artery between East Bay cities is highly valued by both commuters and recreational users. The trail's accessibility, combined with its green spaces and community gardens, creates a pleasant environment for connecting with nature amidst an urban setting.
Before heading out, it's helpful to know that the Ohlone Greenway offers a generally flat and paved terrain, making it suitable for a wide range of users, including those with mobility needs. The trail is ADA-accessible, ensuring a smooth experience for everyone. Parking is available at various access points, such as Ohlone Park in Berkeley or Baxter Creek Gateway Park in Richmond, and its proximity to BART stations provides excellent public transport options for reaching the trail.
The Ohlone Greenway is enjoyable year-round, with its tree-lined paths providing some shade during warmer months. It's an excellent destination for family friendly cycling, leisurely walks, jogging, and even commuting. The trail connects to several parks and playgrounds, making it a perfect outing for families. Many sections feature outdoor gym equipment and public art installations, adding to the recreational and cultural appeal.
The trail begins in Berkeley at Ohlone Park, near Martin Luther King Jr. Way and Hearst Avenue, and extends northwest through Albany and El Cerrito. It concludes at San Pablo Avenue in Richmond, where it links with the Richmond Greenway, offering further exploration opportunities. This continuous greenway trail provides a straightforward and scenic route through the heart of the East Bay.
Along the route, users can discover charming community gardens like the Karl Linn and Peralta gardens in Berkeley, or enjoy the mini-park with play equipment and wetland restoration areas in El Cerrito. The presence of murals and other public art installations adds a cultural dimension, depicting the region's rich history. Cyclists and walkers often appreciate the convenience of accessing local cafes and shops directly from the trail.
Whether you're looking for a leisurely ride, a brisk walk, or an efficient way to commute, the Ohlone Greenway offers diverse options. You can explore various routes and plan your visit using komoot, which provides detailed maps and insights for greenway cycling and other activities along this popular trail. The trail's connectivity to other regional paths, such as the Richmond Greenway, allows for extended adventures across the East Bay.
Tips
June 22, 2019
Road cycling
December 4, 2023
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Ohlone Greenway
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Embark on a scenic road cycling journey along the San Francisco Bay Trail, a moderate route spanning 33.7 miles (54.3 km) with an elevation gain of 677 feet (206 metres). This ride offers expansive views of the bay, guiding you past diverse waterfronts and green spaces. You can expect to complete this tour in about 2 hours and 31 minutes, enjoying the unique perspective of iconic Bay Area bridges as you pedal along the shoreline.
When planning your visit, be aware that while much of the trail is paved, some sections may present dirt or gravel surfaces. These unpaved stretches can be challenging for racebikes, potentially requiring you to dismount and walk short distances. High winds are also a factor, especially when crossing bridges, so checking current weather and trail conditions before you head out is always a good idea.
This trail is a significant part of a larger vision to create a continuous recreational corridor around the entire San Francisco Bay. It connects numerous communities and natural habitats, offering a unique blend of urban and natural landscapes. As you ride, you'll experience the dynamic ecosystem of the bay, observing its diverse birdlife and marine environments from a close vantage point.
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Embark on the Martinez Loop, a difficult racebike route that challenges you with 53.2 miles (85.6 km) and a significant 4251 feet (1296 metres) of elevation gain. This ride typically takes around 4 hours and 23 minutes to complete. You will experience a varied landscape, from the tranquil waters of the Carquinez Strait, where you might see the Benicia-Martinez Bridge, to the peaceful country roads lined with horse stables. The route also takes you through charming towns like Crockett and Port Costa, offering glimpses of local life. On clear days, keep an eye out for distant views of Mount Diablo and the Sacramento River Delta.
When planning your ride, be aware that this is a popular route, often used by Bay Area cycling clubs. While sections like the George Miller Regional Trail offer smooth surfaces, other parts, such as the Carquinez Scenic Drive, can be rougher. Exercise caution on segments between Crockett and Port Costa, as these roads are narrow and lack dedicated bike lanes or shoulders. You can generally find parking in the towns along the route, including Martinez, to begin your adventure.
The Martinez Loop stands out for its unique blend of marine vistas and rural charm, making it a classic Bay Area cycling experience. It offers a chance to see working ships and sailboats on the water, contrasting with the quiet grazing lands further inland. This route provides a comprehensive tour of the region's diverse scenery, from bustling waterfronts to serene countryside, all within a single challenging ride.
4
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160m
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Embark on an easy road cycling adventure along the Ohlone Greenway and Bay Trail Loop, a 20.0 miles (32.2 km) route that offers varied scenery and a gentle 509 feet (155 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this ride in about 1 hour and 22 minutes. As you cycle, you'll transition from tree-lined urban greenways to expansive waterfront views, with highlights like the San Francisco Bay and the Berkeley Marina, especially around Point Isabel Regional Shoreline Park.
This route is generally easy to ride, making it accessible for many road cyclists. The surfaces are mostly paved, ensuring a smooth journey. Be aware that the Ohlone Greenway section has frequent street crossings, which might interrupt your continuous cycling flow. The Bay Trail portion, however, focuses on well-paved sections specifically chosen to suit road bikes.
This loop uniquely combines two significant regional trails, offering a diverse experience in the East Bay. The Ohlone Greenway provides a path through residential areas and community gardens, complete with interpretive kiosks that share local insights. Connecting to the Bay Trail then opens up broad vistas towards the Golden Gate, showcasing the region's natural beauty and urban landscape.
Details
Informations
Distance 3.20 km
Uphill 10 m
Downhill 20 m
Weather
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Thursday 7 May
22°C
11°C
0 %
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Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total length of the Ohlone Greenway, and does it connect to other trails?
The Ohlone Greenway spans approximately 4.5 to 5.3 miles (7.2 to 8.5 km) from Berkeley to Richmond. It notably connects in the north with the Richmond Greenway, which can lead towards the San Rafael Bridge, and also offers connections to the Emeryville Greenway (partially on roads) towards Oakland and the SF Bay Bridge.
Is the Ohlone Greenway suitable for beginner cyclists or those with limited mobility?
Yes, the Ohlone Greenway is an excellent choice for beginners and individuals with limited mobility. It features a generally flat, paved surface and is designated as an ADA-accessible trail, ensuring a smooth and easy experience for all users, including those in wheelchairs or with strollers.
Are dogs permitted on the Ohlone Greenway?
Yes, dogs are generally permitted on the Ohlone Greenway. Many sections, particularly in parks like Ohlone Park in Berkeley, feature off-leash dog parks. However, it's always best practice to keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them, especially in shared multi-use areas.
What are the best public transportation options for accessing the Ohlone Greenway?
The Ohlone Greenway runs parallel to the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) Richmond line for most of its length, providing excellent public transport access. Several BART stations are directly accessible from the trail, including North Berkeley, El Cerrito Plaza, and El Cerrito del Norte, making it easy to start or end your journey at various points.
Are there any specific landmarks or unique features to look out for along the Greenway?
Absolutely! The Greenway is rich with features. You'll find several community gardens like the Karl Linn, Peralta, and Northside gardens in Berkeley. In El Cerrito, there's a mini-park with play equipment and even a special frog habitat and wetland restoration area. Additionally, keep an eye out for various public art installations and murals that depict the region's history and culture.
How crowded does the Ohlone Greenway get, especially on weekends?
As a popular urban trail, the Ohlone Greenway can experience moderate to high traffic, particularly on weekends and during peak commuting hours. Cyclists and pedestrians share the path, so it's advisable to be mindful of others and maintain a safe speed. For a quieter experience, consider visiting during weekday mornings or late afternoons.
What kind of amenities, like cafes or restrooms, are available along the route?
The Ohlone Greenway passes through several urban areas, providing convenient access to various amenities. You'll find opportunities to access local cafes, shops, and restaurants directly from the trail in cities like Berkeley, Albany, and El Cerrito. While dedicated restrooms directly on the trail might be limited, facilities are often available in adjacent parks or businesses.
Can I find outdoor exercise equipment along the Ohlone Greenway?
Yes, some sections of the Ohlone Greenway are equipped with outdoor exercise courses and gym equipment. These installations offer a great opportunity to incorporate a strength or stretching workout into your walk or ride, enhancing the recreational value of the trail.
What is the historical significance of the Ohlone Greenway?
The Ohlone Greenway follows the route of a former railway line, with its origins tracing back to the 1880s when it served various railroads, including the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway. The land was later donated to the cities in 1979, and the 'linear park' was developed in conjunction with BART construction. Its name honors the Indigenous Ohlone people who historically inhabited the Central California coastal areas.
Are there any loop routes or extended cycling options connected to the Ohlone Greenway?
While the Ohlone Greenway itself is a linear path, its connections to other trails like the Richmond Greenway allow for extended cycling adventures. You can also explore various city streets and local parks adjacent to the Greenway to create your own loop routes or longer journeys through the East Bay.