The best road cycling routes in Inyo County
5.0
(1)
326
riders
24
rides
Road cycling routes in Inyo County traverse a landscape of extreme elevations, from the lowest point in Death Valley National Park to the towering Sierra Nevada and White Mountains. The region features diverse terrain, including vast desert expanses, alpine peaks, and the deep Owens Valley. Paved roads wind through scenic canyons and offer significant elevation gains, providing varied challenges for cyclists. This area is characterized by dramatic contrasts and a sense of solitude across its natural features.
Best road cyclingβ¦
Last updated: April 24, 2026
5.0
(1)
26
riders
38.9km
02:54
1,440m
1,440m
Prepare for a challenging road cycling experience on the Whitney Portal route, a difficult 24.2 miles (38.9 km) climb that takes about 2 hours and 53 minutes. As you ascend,β¦
26
riders
42.1km
03:02
1,590m
1,590m
Prepare for a difficult road cycling challenge on Onion Valley Road, a route known for its relentless gradients and rewarding vistas. This demanding climb covers 26.2 miles (42.1 km) andβ¦
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25
riders
70.6km
04:56
2,070m
2,070m
Prepare for a demanding road cycling adventure on the Horseshoe Meadows route, a difficult climb spanning 43.9 miles (70.6 km). As you pedal, you will gain an impressive 6804 feetβ¦
16
riders
75.8km
05:06
2,100m
2,100m
This difficult 47.1-mile road cycling route to Schulman Grove Visitor Center offers extreme elevation gain and ancient Bristlecone Pines.
15
riders
45.0km
01:53
330m
330m
Embark on the Millpond to Paradise route for a scenic road cycling adventure, covering 27.9 miles (45.0 km) with a moderate difficulty rating. You will gain 1078 feet (328 metres)β¦
14
riders
63.1km
03:44
1,540m
1,540m
This difficult 39.2-mile road cycling route from Bishop to Lake Sabrina offers a challenging climb and stunning Eastern Sierra views.
15
riders
72.6km
04:29
1,750m
1,750m
Challenge yourself on the difficult South Lake β Bishop road cycling route, a 45.1-mile climb through the scenic Eastern Sierra Nevada.
8
riders
26.0km
01:12
80m
80m
Embark on the Warm Springs loop, an easy road cycling route spanning 16.2 miles (26.0 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 262 feet (80 metres). You can expect toβ¦
8
riders
41.0km
01:53
210m
210m
Embark on an easy road cycling journey with the Warm Springs extended loop, covering 25.4 miles (41.0 km) and gaining 681 feet (207 metres) in elevation. This route offers aβ¦
7
riders
27.9km
01:36
270m
270m
The Pleasant Valley Dam loop β Gravel offers a moderate road cycling experience near Bishop, California. You will cover 17.3 miles (27.9 km) with an elevation gain of 875 feetβ¦
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Tips from the Community
The valley offers expansive views of the mountains in every direction. This route is lightly trafficked but beautiful. As the road turns you near Elderberry Canyon to the west.
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There is a campground here at around 10,000 feet and numerous hiking trails that radiate outward to explore this absolutely breathtaking valley. If you cycled up into the valley via the switchbacks, then kick back and enjoy the views. Congratulations on making it up one of the most difficult and rewarding climbs in the U.S.!
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Lone Pine, California, is a small town nestled at the base of the Sierras. The main street is lined with locally-owned shops, cozy cafes, and restaurants, making it a great place to start or end an outdoor adventure. Lone Pine truly is a gateway to adventure; the nearby Alabama Hills, famous for their unique rock formations and movie history, offer excellent hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and photography opportunities, and Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States, attracts hikers from around the world. Owens River also provides fishing, kayaking, and bird-watching activities. The town's proximity to Death Valley National Park also makes it an ideal base for exploring the park's dramatic landscapes.
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The Eastern Sierra Scenic Byway (I-395) crosses Brockman Lane. The crossroads has green fields stretching out in every direction with dramatic mountains silhouettes in the distance. If you are crossing 395 be mindful of cars across all five lanes of the road.
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Lone Pine, California, is a small town nestled at the base of the Sierras. The main street is lined with locally-owned shops, cozy cafes, and restaurants, making it a great place to start or end an outdoor adventure. Lone Pine truly is a gateway to adventure; the nearby Alabama Hills, famous for their unique rock formations and movie history, offer excellent hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and photography opportunities, and Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States, attracts hikers from around the world. Owens River also provides fishing, kayaking, and bird-watching activities. The town's proximity to Death Valley National Park also makes it an ideal base for exploring the park's dramatic landscapes.
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Whitney Portal is located at an elevation of 8,374 feet (2,552 meters) at the end of the Whitney Portal road It is the gateway to Mount Whitney, the highest mountain in the contiguous United States. Here, you will find the trailhead for the Mount Whitney Trail as well as campgrounds, parking lots, a store and a restaurant.
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Onion Valley Road is known as one of the toughest climbs in California. In fact, Bicycle Magazine ranked it #3 in "The 30 Hardest Hill Climbs in the World". It's incredibly beautiful and has light traffic. The road has an elevation gain of 5,323 feet in just over 13 miles. The climb ends at the Kearsarge Pass trailhead, where you will find running water and vault toilets.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available in Inyo County?
Inyo County offers a diverse network of over 20 road cycling routes on komoot, with hundreds of miles of paved roads, highways, and trails. These routes traverse varied landscapes, from the lowest points in Death Valley to the towering Sierra Nevada and White Mountains.
What kind of terrain can I expect when road cycling in Inyo County?
You'll encounter a remarkable range of terrain, from vast desert expanses in Death Valley to alpine peaks in the Sierra Nevada and White Mountains. Routes often feature significant elevation changes, winding through scenic canyons and the deep Owens Valley. Expect everything from gentle, scenic rides to grueling, steep climbs.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners or those seeking an easier ride?
Yes, Inyo County offers options for various ability levels. While many routes are challenging, there are 2 easy and 6 moderate road cycling routes available on komoot. For example, the Warm Springs loop is an easy option, and the Millpond to Paradise route offers a moderate experience.
What are some of the most challenging road cycling routes in Inyo County?
Inyo County is renowned for its challenging climbs. Some of the most formidable routes include Horseshoe Meadows, a 43.9-mile trail with over 6,800 feet of elevation gain, and Schulman Grove Visitor Center via White Mountain Road, which also features significant climbing. These routes are ideal for experienced cyclists seeking a demanding ride.
What is the best time of year to go road cycling in Inyo County?
The best time largely depends on the specific area you plan to ride. Death Valley routes are popular in cooler months (fall to spring), while high-elevation mountain routes are best enjoyed from late spring through early fall, avoiding winter snows. The region's dramatic elevation changes mean you can often find suitable conditions somewhere in the county year-round.
Are there any loop road cycling routes in Inyo County?
Yes, Inyo County features several loop routes for road cyclists. The Warm Springs loop and the Warm Springs extended loop are excellent options for circular rides, offering scenic views and varying distances.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the road cycling routes?
Inyo County is rich in natural wonders. Depending on your route, you could pass by the dramatic landscapes of Badwater Basin Salt Flats, the towering Mount Whitney, or the unique rock formations of the Alabama Hills. Other highlights include Zabriskie Point and the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes in Death Valley.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Inyo County?
The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Inyo County, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists frequently praise the region's dramatic elevation changes, diverse landscapes ranging from desert to alpine, and the sense of solitude found on its hundreds of miles of paved roads. Over 300 road cyclists have used komoot to explore this unique area.
Where can I find more information about visiting Inyo County?
For additional visitor information about Inyo County, including details on other outdoor activities and local services, you can visit the official tourism website at inyocountyvisitor.com. They also have a dedicated cycling section at inyocountyvisitor.com/cycling/.
Are there any specific routes that offer views of the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest?
Yes, the Schulman Grove Visitor Center via White Mountain Road route takes you high into the White Mountains, providing access to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, home to some of the oldest living trees on Earth. This route offers both a challenging ride and a unique natural attraction.
Are there routes that explore the Owens Valley?
Many routes in Inyo County traverse the Owens Valley, known as the deepest valley in the American continents. US Highway 395, a major artery popular for road cycling, runs through this valley, offering paved roads and scenic views along the Owens River. Routes like Millpond to Paradise offer a taste of the valley's beauty.
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