Lake Casitas

The Lake Casitas loop offers road cyclists a journey through varied California landscapes, from coastal stretches to the rolling hills of the Ojai Valley. You'll pass the historic Lake Casitas, which hosted Olympic events, and enjoy expansive views of the Pacific Ocean. The route is predominantly paved, but be aware of sections with chip seal, particularly on the challenging Casitas Pass climb.

This moderate route covers 48.1 miles (77.3 km) with a significant 2773 feet (845 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 33 minutes. The Casitas Pass climb features grades of 5-8% and some parts without a road shoulder, so it demands focus and experience. Plan your ride for cooler parts of the day and ensure you carry enough water, especially during summer.

Regarded as a classic ride in the Santa Barbara area, the Lake Casitas loop has even seen sections included in the Amgen Tour of California. Beyond the cycling challenge, you might spot dolphins along the coast or deer in the inland areas. It's a rewarding experience for those looking for a substantial road cycling adventure with diverse scenery and a touch of Olympic history.

Cycle the moderate 64.3-mile Lake Casitas Loop, gaining 2728 feet with scenic views of the lake, groves, and Pacific Ocean.

The Ventura - Santa Paula - Ojai Loop delivers a diverse road cycling experience, winding through historic fruit orchards and offering expansive mountain vistas. You will navigate rolling hills from Ventura to Santa Paula before facing a challenging 8-mile climb to the Upper Ojai Valley, with rewarding views of Lake Casitas from the summit. The return trip on the Ojai Valley Trail provides a pleasant, mostly downhill cruise back to Ventura.

This difficult 66.2-mile (106.6 km) route involves a substantial 3881 feet (1183 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring about 4 hours and 55 minutes to complete. Consider riding counterclockwise from Ventura to potentially mitigate prevailing winds on the main ascent. While the Ojai Valley Trail is suitable for all, the overall loop demands good to very good fitness, especially on the Ojai Road climb.

This route is a favorite among local cyclists and has even been featured in past stages of the Amgen Tour of California, highlighting its quality and challenge. The charming towns of Santa Paula and Ojai offer cultural interest and opportunities for a break, with Ojai known for its quaint downtown and oak-studded Libbey Park. The dedicated Ojai Valley Trail, built on a former railway line, provides a unique and relaxed finish to this epic ride.