Lamorinda Trail & Carquinez Scenic Drive loop

The route features mostly well-paved surfaces, ideal for road bikes. The Lafayette–Moraga Regional Trail sections are fully paved and often dedicated bikeways. While the Carquinez Scenic Drive is also mostly paved, some sections open to cars can be rougher. However, the George Miller Regional Trail, part of the Carquinez Scenic Drive, is known for its smooth surface and is closed to vehicle traffic for a significant portion.

You'll experience diverse and picturesque scenery. The Lafayette–Moraga Regional Trail offers shaded, wooded settings with views of homes, picnic grounds, and open grasslands. The Carquinez Scenic Drive provides expansive marine views of the Carquinez Strait, its bridges, and boats, winding through charming towns like Martinez and Crockett, and showcasing rolling coastal hills.

The rolling, low, coastal hills along the Carquinez Scenic Drive are particularly vibrant and green in late winter and early spring, making these seasons excellent for scenic rides. The Lafayette–Moraga Regional Trail is also celebrated for its stunning wildflowers during spring.

Yes, the loop offers several points of interest. You'll pass by the San Pablo Reservoir and can enjoy views from the Little Bull Valley Carquinez Overlook. The Carquinez Scenic Drive itself provides 'swell views of the Strait from every angle'.

Riding the Carquinez Scenic Drive clockwise is generally considered the easier option in terms of climbs. If you ride it counter-clockwise, be prepared for a climb toward Crockett that extends for over two miles, with grades occasionally reaching around 8%.

While specific parking lots aren't detailed, the loop passes through Lafayette, which is a common access point for the Lamorinda Trail. Look for public parking options within Lafayette or near designated trailheads for the Lafayette–Moraga Regional Trail.

The Lafayette–Moraga Regional Trail, which is part of this loop, is generally dog-friendly, but dogs must be kept on a leash. Always check specific regulations for each section of the trail, especially within regional parks or preserves like Sobrante Ridge Regional Preserve.

Generally, there are no specific permits required for cycling the Lamorinda Trail or Carquinez Scenic Drive. However, if your route takes you through Briones Regional Park, be aware that while there are no entrance fees, certain regulations apply, such as keeping dogs on leash and staying on marked trails. Always check the East Bay Regional Park District website for the latest rules and any potential closures.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other trails. Notably, it uses parts of the Lamorinda Trail Loop, San Francisco Bay Trail, Bay Area Ridge Trail - 02 - East Bay, Mokelumne Coast to Crest Trail, and the George Miller Regional Trail.

The entire loop is classified as 'difficult' with significant elevation gain (over 1,000 meters) and a distance of 80.1 kilometers, making it best suited for experienced road cyclists with very good fitness. While sections like the Lafayette–Moraga Regional Trail are paved and traffic-separated, the overall challenge of the loop means it is not typically considered family-friendly for younger or less experienced riders.

The loop passes through several towns, including Lafayette, Martinez, Crockett, and Port Costa. These towns offer opportunities for cafes, restaurants, and restrooms. It's advisable to plan your stops, especially for longer stretches between towns.