The best road cycling routes in Kern County

Kern County offers a diverse range of terrain for road cycling. You'll find routes through river valleys, such as the scenic Kern River Parkway Trail, as well as challenging climbs into the Sierra Nevada foothills and desert plains. Routes like the Round Mountain loop feature rolling hills, while longer rides like Lake Ming to Lake Isabella transition from desert to mountain views with significant elevation gain.

Yes, Kern County offers several easy road cycling routes. The region has over 170 miles of bike trails, lanes, and paths, including sections of the Kern River Parkway Trail which are generally flat and paved. An example of an easy route is the Willow Springs loop from Rosamond, California, which has minimal elevation gain.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Kern County provides routes with significant elevation gain. The Lion's Tail loop is a difficult 44.3-mile path with over 3,900 feet of ascent. Another demanding option is the Lake Ming to Lake Isabella route, covering 77.3 miles with over 6,000 feet of climbing through varied landscapes.

Kern County is home to several long-distance road cycling routes. The Lake Ming to Lake Isabella route is a substantial 77.3 miles (124.4 km) journey. For an even longer ride, consider the Bakersfield to Tehachapi loop, which spans over 87 miles (140 km).

Many road cycling routes in Kern County offer scenic views and pass by notable natural features. The Kern River Parkway Trail follows the Kern River, providing views of mountains, hills, and riparian habitats. Routes heading towards the mountains can offer glimpses of the Sierra Nevada. You might also pass by bodies of water like Lake Ming or Lake Isabella, both popular for water sports and relaxation. The California City to Red Rock Canyon State Park loop offers desert landscapes.

Yes, many road cycling routes in Kern County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Popular loop options include the Round Mountain loop, the challenging Lion's Tail loop, and the East Tehachapi loop.

Kern County, particularly Bakersfield, enjoys a sunny climate for most of the year, making it appealing for outdoor activities. Spring and fall generally offer the most comfortable temperatures for road cycling. Summers can be very hot, especially in the lower elevations, while winters are mild but can bring cooler temperatures and occasional rain.

For family-friendly road cycling, the paved sections of the Kern River Parkway Trail are an excellent choice. This trail offers over 30 miles of path, providing a safe and scenic environment away from vehicle traffic. Parks within Bakersfield, such as The Park at River Walk, also offer cycling paths suitable for families.

The road cycling routes in Kern County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from river valleys to mountain foothills, and the extensive network of paved paths and roadways that cater to various skill levels. The scenic views along routes like the Kern River Parkway are also frequently highlighted.

Many popular road cycling areas in Kern County offer accessible parking. The Kern River Parkway Trail, for instance, has multiple parking lots along its length. For specific routes, it's advisable to check the route details on komoot, as they often include information about starting points and available parking.

Bakersfield, the largest city in Kern County, has a growing network of bike routes. Beyond the Kern River Parkway Trail, you can find cycling paths within city parks like Yokuts Park, The Park at River Walk, and Beach Park, often running alongside the Kern River. These provide accessible options for urban cycling.

While specific cafes directly on every route might vary, popular destinations like Lake Ming and Lake Isabella are known as good spots to rest and refuel. For routes closer to Bakersfield or other towns, you'll find various amenities. It's always a good idea to plan your route and check for services in nearby towns.