Cycling in San Diego

San Diego’s cycling scene is as diverse as the places you can ride. If you’ve got a bike, chances are you’ve already passed someone cruising along the Pacific Coast on Ocean Beach’s Sunset Cliffs trail or tackling the hills around Balboa Park. You don’t need to be an expert to enjoy cycling here,the flat, scenic Coronado Peninsula offers a breezy ride with stunning views of the skyline and bay. Just watch out for weekend foot traffic near the ferry dock.

When you want something more challenging, try the trails in Mission Trails Regional Park. The climbs there are decent, and the payoff is the quiet, dusty paths filled with native chaparral. Springtime is especially nice since the wildflowers pop up, making the climb a bit more worth it. Pro tip: pack lots of water and start early to beat the heat. If you’re into urban rides, the San Diego River Trail is a hidden gem that locals use to get from neighborhoods like Linda Vista to the beach without worrying much about cars.

Bike shops like The Pedaler on El Cajon Boulevard are great spots to get expert advice or a last-minute fix. Honestly, one of my favorite ways to explore San Diego is by hopping on two wheels,there’s no better way to connect with the city’s varied neighborhoods and its ocean breeze.