Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Camino Alto Road
Road cycling
4.8
(30)
This Highlight goes through a protected area
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Tips
January 30, 2019
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Camino Alto Road
4.8
(29)
1,312
riders
85.1km
04:32
1,230m
1,230m
This difficult 52.9-mile road cycling loop from San Francisco offers challenging climbs, stunning views of Alpine Lake, and the Golden Gate
4.6
(14)
681
riders
65.4km
03:41
1,330m
1,330m
The Alpine Dam & Mount Tamalpais East Peak loop from Downtown San Rafael is a challenging road cycling route that delivers some of the best scenery in Marin County. You'll pedal through dense redwood and oak forests, past the serene Alpine Lake and Alpine Dam, before tackling the famous "Seven Sisters" rollers. The reward for your effort is a breathtaking panoramic view from Mount Tamalpais East Peak, stretching from San Francisco to the Pacific Ocean.
This difficult 40.6-mile (65.4 km) ride, with its 4348 feet (1325 metres) of elevation gain, is a serious undertaking, typically taking around 3 hours and 40 minutes. The route is primarily on paved roads, though some sections can be steep and twisty, particularly on Fairfax-Bolinas Road. It's a demanding ride best suited for experienced cyclists with excellent fitness levels.
Widely considered a "crown jewel" among Marin County road cycling routes, this loop is often cited as one of the most scenic ways to experience Mount Tamalpais. The journey itself, with its varied microclimates and iconic landmarks like the Seven Sisters, is as much a highlight as the destination. It's a true bucket-list ride for those seeking an advanced road cycling experience near Downtown San Rafael.
90
riders
67.1km
03:12
700m
700m
Embark on the Sir Francis Drake and Cross Marin Trail Loop, a moderate road cycling adventure spanning 41.7 miles (67.1 km) with a total elevation gain of 2311 feet (704 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 3 hours and 11 minutes. The journey begins with the serene Cross Marin Trail, winding through cool redwood groves and streamside woodlands alongside Lagunitas Creek, offering a peaceful start before transitioning to the more open vistas of Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, where you might catch glimpses of Tomales Bay.
This loop is situated within Samuel P. Taylor State Park, making it easy to find restrooms along the Cross Marin Trail section. While the Cross Marin Trail offers smooth riding, be aware that parts of Sir Francis Drake Boulevard can have varying road conditions and traffic, so plan your ride carefully for comfort and safety. Connections between the two main sections are clearly marked, such as at Platform Bridge Road, ensuring a straightforward transition.
This route stands out for its unique blend of environments, from the shaded, tranquil paths of the Cross Marin Trail to the more expansive views along Sir Francis Drake Boulevard. In the fall and winter, you might even spot migrating salmon in Lagunitas Creek, adding a seasonal highlight to your ride. The varied terrain and scenery make this loop a notable option for road cyclists looking to explore the diverse landscapes of Marin County.
Details
Informations
Distance 1.41 km
Uphill 20 m
Downhill 60 m
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