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January 22, 2025
Cycling
November 21, 2020
Cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Iron Horse Trail
5.0
(5)
99
riders
53.2km
03:34
760m
760m
Embark on a challenging touring bicycle adventure with the Mount Diablo and Iron Horse Trail Loop, a route that spans 33.1 miles (53.2 km) and features a significant 2481 feet (756 metres) of elevation gain. This difficult ride, typically completed in about 3 hours and 33 minutes, offers a dramatic contrast in scenery. You will start on the mostly flat, paved Iron Horse Trail, winding through urban and suburban areas shaded by trees, before transitioning to the strenuous mountain climbs of Mount Diablo. As you ascend, you'll be rewarded with increasingly expansive panoramic views, reaching up to 200 miles on a clear day from spots like Curry Point and the summit, encompassing the Sierra Nevada mountains and the entire Bay Area.
When planning your visit, be aware that this route combines the gentle, service-rich sections of the Iron Horse Trail with the more isolated, demanding ascents of Mount Diablo. While towns along the Iron Horse Trail offer convenient amenities, services become very limited once you begin climbing Mount Diablo. Therefore, it is crucial to prepare adequately for hydration, nutrition, and potential weather changes, especially when tackling the mountain portion of your ride. Consider starting early to make the most of daylight and cooler temperatures on the climbs.
This unique loop is notable for its blend of two distinct cycling environments, offering an
5
riders
66.0km
03:54
370m
370m
Embark on the Iron Horse Trail and Dougherty Valley Loop for a touring cycling experience that transitions from the smooth, wide paths of a former railway to the gentle undulations of the San Ramon Valley. This moderate 41.0-mile (66.0 km) route, with 1206 feet (368 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 3 hours and 54 minutes, offering a pleasant blend of urban and natural scenery. You'll enjoy shaded sections, open creekside views, and glimpses of Mount Diablo, making it a great option for a longer, comfortable ride.
Planning your ride is straightforward, as the Iron Horse Trail is well-maintained and connects various communities, including BART stations, making public transport an option. The route is popular, so expect company, especially near town centers. Spring and early summer are ideal for this loop, when the Dougherty Valley might surprise you with vibrant wildflowers and the weather is generally mild.
What sets this route apart is its combination of the pancake-flat Iron Horse Trail, a former railroad right-of-way, with the more varied terrain of the Dougherty Valley. Keep an eye out for the unique Golf Ball Protection Tunnel near the San Ramon Country Club. This trail is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a substantial touring cycling route that's mostly paved and accessible for a wide range of fitness levels.
4.7
(7)
62
riders
31.7km
01:55
110m
110m
The Iron Horse Trail – Museum of the San Ramon Valley loop from Walnut Creek offers a delightful touring bicycle experience, tracing a historic railroad corridor through varied landscapes. You'll pedal on a predominantly flat, paved surface, enjoying views of marshy creeks and lush greenery, with glimpses of Mount Diablo in the distance. The route culminates at the charming Museum of the San Ramon Valley in Danville, housed in a historic 1891 Southern Pacific Depot, providing a perfect mid-ride break.
This easy 19.7-mile (31.7 km) cycling route, with a gentle 351 feet (107 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes just 1 hour and 54 minutes to complete. It's an ideal choice for families or anyone seeking a relaxed ride. The trail is well-maintained and offers amenities like restrooms and water stations, particularly in downtown areas like Danville.
More than just a path, the Iron Horse Trail is a multi-use greenway connecting several cities, built on a former Southern Pacific Railroad right-of-way. Its historical significance is palpable, and its connectivity to BART stations makes it a convenient option for car-free exploration of the San Ramon Valley. Expect to share the path with walkers and joggers, especially near town centers.
Details
Informations
Distance 239 m
Downhill 10 m
Weather
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Tuesday 16 June
28°C
13°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h
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