Lamorinda Trail Loop

The Lamorinda Trail Loop is approximately 31 km (19.3 miles) long. For touring cyclists, it typically takes around 1 hour and 56 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and stops.

The route is predominantly paved, making it ideal for touring bicycles and road bikes. You'll find extensive sections of asphalt and dedicated bikeways, including the Lafayette-Moraga Regional Trail. While mostly traffic-separated, some segments may involve sharing the road with cars on marked cycling lanes. A few moderate hills are present, contributing to its 'moderate' difficulty rating.

You'll enjoy diverse scenery, especially the picturesque Moraga Valley between Lafayette and Moraga. The trail follows a historic railroad route, offering glimpses of green hills, wildflowers in spring, and colorful trees in the fall. Keep an eye out for the unique Horseshoe Bend on Lafayette-Moraga Bike Trail and potential wildlife near areas like the Briones Reservoir Loop.

The Lamorinda Trail Loop is generally considered a moderate bike ride. While much of it is paved and accessible, there are three medium-sized hills and an elevation gain of around 295 meters (968 ft) that require a good level of fitness. Beginners with some cycling experience and a willingness to tackle moderate climbs should be able to complete it.

Parking is available in the cities of Lafayette, Moraga, and Orinda, which the loop connects. You can often find parking near community parks like Lafayette Community Park or Moraga Commons Park. Maps are also displayed at local BART stations and community centers, which can help you locate convenient access points.

The trail is enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer the most pleasant conditions. In spring, you'll see wildflowers, and in fall, the trees display vibrant colors. Summers can be warm, so an early morning ride is recommended. Winters are generally mild, but check the weather for rain.

Yes, the Lamorinda Trail Loop, including sections like the Lafayette-Moraga Regional Trail, is a multi-use pathway. Dogs are generally permitted but must be kept on a leash and under control at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access and cycle the Lamorinda Trail Loop. It is a public trail developed through a collaborative effort of the three cities and the East Bay Regional Park District.

Yes, the route integrates with and connects to several other local trails. Significant portions of the loop utilize the Lafayette-Moraga Regional Trail and the Lamorinda Trail. It also passes through sections of the Downtown Bypass, Central Commons Tr., Orinda Oaks Park Trail, and Heritage Tr., offering opportunities to explore further.

Yes, as the loop passes through Lafayette, Moraga, and Orinda, you'll find various facilities. Lafayette Community Park and Moraga Commons Park are directly on the route and offer amenities. You can also find cafes and other services in the nearby city centers.

While much of the trail is traffic-separated, some sections involve sharing the road or are multi-use. It's advised to not exceed 15 mph on straightaways and to reduce your speed to 5 mph around corners and hills, especially when sharing the path with pedestrians or equestrians. Always wear a helmet and be aware of your surroundings.