Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Login or Signup

Routes
Cycling routes
United States
California
San Diego County

La Mesa

The best cycling routes around La Mesa

4.5

(60)

508

riders

73

rides

Touring cycling around La Mesa offers access to diverse landscapes, from tranquil lake paths to challenging mountain ascents and coastal rides. The city's location within San Diego County provides a variety of terrains, including extensive urban parks and river trails. This region features well-maintained paths and scenic vistas, catering to various cycling preferences.

Best touring cycling routes around La Mesa

  • The most popular touring cycling route is Lake Murray Reservoir loop from Lake Murray Reservoir, a 4.9 miles (7.9 km) trail that takes 29 minutes to complete. This easy route offers scenic views of the water and surrounding hills.
  • Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is San Diego River Bikeway – Mission Bay Park loop from Grossmont, a difficult 39.6 miles (63.8 km) path. This route is primarily on paved surfaces, connecting to Mission Bay Park.
  • Local touring cyclists also love the Mission Trails Regional Park – Old Mission Dam loop from Grossmont, a 16.4 miles (26.4 km) trail leading through Mission Trails Regional Park, often completed in about 1 hour 47 minutes.
  • Touring cycling around La Mesa is defined by diverse landscapes, lake paths, urban parks, and river trails. The network offers options for different ability levels, from leisurely rides to challenging ascents.
  • The routes in La Mesa are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 67 reviews. More than 689 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore La Mesa's varied terrain.

Last updated: May 31, 2026

4.5

(4)

30

riders

#1.

Lake Murray Reservoir loop from Lake Murray Reservoir

7.89km

00:29

40m

40m

Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Navigate with device

Send to Phone

Save

Easy

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
guide_signup
Let us show you the way with the komoot mobile app
With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

Sign up for free

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard
Sign up for free to see 69 more rides around La Mesa.

Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around La Mesa

Hiking around La Mesa

MTB Trails around La Mesa

Running Trails around La Mesa

Road Cycling Routes around La Mesa

Gravel biking around La Mesa

Tips from the Community

mtm05005
June 5, 2025, Lake Murray Reservoir

The Lake Murray Reservoir is a 171.1 acre body of water. It is a popular spot for boaters and there is a path that runs alongside the perimeter of the water.

1

0

Sue
January 19, 2025, Leisure Lagoon

Leisure Lagoon is a fantastic place for a picnic or relaxing along the shoreline. A grassy area surrounds the cove, with plenty of benches and restrooms nearby. There is a lifeguard station on-site, and the calm water makes for a delightful, quiet spot to swim without waves.

0

0

Beautiful view over La Jolla!

Translated by Google

1

0

Mission Bay is a beautiful aquatic park with 4,235 acres of water surrounded by parks, recreational facilities, and scenic views. This man-made bay offers a variety of water activities such as sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, as well as beach volleyball.

0

0

EuroCyclingTrips
February 18, 2024, Rose Inlet

Great views as you cross the Mike Gotch Memorial Bridge with views of boats and the marina. This bridge is part of the Mission Bay Bike Route which you can follow around much all around the bay to form a loop.

0

0

This trail guides you alongside Mission Bay, providing picturesque views throughout. During this stretch, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy the views of Fiesta Island and SeaWorld.

0

0

This trail loops you around the entire Fiesta Island, where you'll have plenty of waterfront views and a striking view of SeaWorld. This area is both dog and horse friendly, and this highly popular trail is paved and utilized by vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians, so remain vigilant.

0

0

AaronLavanchy
February 18, 2024, Mount Soledad

Mount Soledad offers panoramic views of San Diego and the Pacific Ocean from its 822-foot summit. Additionally, it hosts a tribute to American veterans at the summit.

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many touring cycling routes are available around La Mesa?

There are over 70 touring cycling routes around La Mesa, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars.

Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or leisurely rides?

Yes, La Mesa offers several easy routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. A popular choice is the Lake Murray Reservoir loop from Lake Murray Reservoir, an easy 7.9 km (4.9 miles) trail that provides scenic views of the water and surrounding hills on a paved path.

What are some challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, La Mesa provides several difficult routes with significant distances and elevation changes. Consider the San Diego River Bikeway – Mission Bay Park loop from Grossmont, a difficult 63.8 km (39.6 miles) ride primarily on paved surfaces, or the Mission Bay Bike Path – Mission Bay San Diego loop from La Mesa Boulevard, which covers 74.3 km (46.2 miles) with notable climbs and descents.

Are there any touring cycling routes that are loops or circular?

Many of the touring cycling routes around La Mesa are designed as loops, providing a convenient circular journey. Examples include the Lake Murray Reservoir loop from Lake Murray Reservoir, the Mission Trails Regional Park – Old Mission Dam loop from Grossmont, and the San Diego River Crossing – Old Mission Dam loop from San Carlos.

What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in La Mesa?

The touring cycling routes around La Mesa offer diverse terrain. You'll find well-maintained paved paths, especially around Lake Murray and connecting to urban areas, as well as routes that traverse through natural landscapes like Mission Trails Regional Park, which may include varied surfaces. The region's location within San Diego County provides access to everything from tranquil lake paths to challenging mountain ascents.

What are some scenic stops or landmarks I can see along the touring cycling routes?

La Mesa's touring cycling routes offer access to several scenic spots and landmarks. You can enjoy views of Lake Murray Reservoir, explore the expansive Mission Trails Regional Park, or visit the historic Old Mission Dam. For panoramic views, consider routes that offer glimpses of Cowles Mountain or Mother Miguel Mountain.

Are there any routes that connect to larger parks or natural areas?

Absolutely. Many routes in La Mesa connect to significant natural areas. For instance, the Mission Trails Regional Park – Old Mission Dam loop from Grossmont takes you directly through Mission Trails Regional Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States. Other routes extend towards the San Diego River and Mission Bay Park.

What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in La Mesa?

La Mesa generally offers pleasant cycling conditions year-round due to its mild climate. However, spring and fall often provide the most comfortable temperatures for touring cycling, avoiding the warmer summer months and cooler winter mornings. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in La Mesa?

The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in La Mesa, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 67 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil lake paths to challenging mountain ascents, and the well-maintained paths that cater to various skill levels. The scenic vistas and access to extensive urban parks are also frequently highlighted.

Are there any moderate touring cycling routes for those looking for a bit more challenge than easy routes?

Yes, there are several moderate touring cycling routes that offer a good balance of challenge and enjoyment. The Mission Trails Regional Park – Old Mission Dam loop from Grossmont is a moderate 26.4 km (16.4 miles) trail, and the San Diego River Crossing – Old Mission Dam loop from San Carlos is another moderate option covering 18 km (11.2 miles).

Can I find routes that offer views of lakes or rivers?

Many routes in the La Mesa area feature beautiful views of local waterways. The Lake Murray Reservoir loop from Lake Murray Reservoir offers continuous scenic views of Lake Murray Reservoir. Additionally, routes like the San Diego River Crossing – Old Mission Dam loop from San Carlos follow parts of the San Diego River, providing views of the San Diego River Wetlands.

Most popular routes around La Mesa

Hiking around La Mesa

Most popular attractions around La Mesa

Places to see

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.

San DiegoCarlsbadLaguna MountainsOceansideAnza-Borrego Desert State ParkMission Trails Regional ParkEncinitasNational CityRancho Santa FeDel MarEscondidoImperial BeachCoronadoCabrillo National MonumentSolana BeachCuyamaca Rancho State ParkSan Diego Bay National Wildlife RefugeChula VistaBlack Mountain Open Space ParkLa PresaLemon GroveTijuana Slough National Wildlife RefugeCuyamaca Mountain State WildernessCleveland National ForestValley CenterOtay Mountain WildernessSpring ValleySan Diego National Wildlife RefugeCamp Pendleton SouthAgua Tibia WildernessCamp Pendleton MainsideCasa De Oro-Mount HelixRancho San DiegoJamulEl CajonBostoniaEucalyptus HillsFallbrookBonsallAnza-Borrego Desert State WildernessDel DiosLakesideBorder Field State ParkWinter GardensElfin ForestPowayHellhole Canyon Open Space PreserveSanteeVistaSawtooth Mountains A Wilderness Study AreaBonitaGranite HillsPine ValleyHidden MeadowsRainbowHarmony GroveLake San MarcosSan MarcosCrestFairbanks RanchSawtooth Mountains WildernessMount LagunaRamonaDescansoPalaHarbison CanyonAlpinePine Creek WildernessJulian

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Lemon Grove

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy