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March 5, 2021
Cycling
September 4, 2024
Cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Lamorinda Trail
4.7
(11)
42
riders
28.0km
01:45
270m
270m
Embark on the Lamorinda Trail Loop for a moderate touring bicycle ride spanning 17.4 miles (28.0 km). You'll experience a diverse landscape, primarily on paved surfaces and dedicated bikeways, with an elevation gain of 889 feet (271 metres). The route follows a historic railroad line, offering glimpses into the region's past as you pedal. Expect to complete this journey in about 1 hour and 44 minutes, enjoying the scenic Horseshoe Bend on the Lafayette-Moraga Bike Trail as a notable highlight. This loop provides a pleasant and accessible cycling experience through the East Bay area.
Planning your ride on the Lamorinda Trail Loop is straightforward, as it conveniently connects the communities of Lafayette, Moraga, and Orinda. You'll find ample parking options available within these towns, making it easy to choose your starting point. The trail's predominantly paved surface means it's suitable for various bicycle types and skill levels. Consider an early morning start to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer people on the path. This accessibility ensures a smooth beginning and end to your touring bicycle adventure.
This route stands out for its unique historical context, tracing the path of a former railroad line. As you cycle, you'll encounter a blend of natural beauty and urban convenience, making it a distinctive option in the East Bay. The trail's design caters to a wide range of cyclists, from casual riders to those looking for a steady workout. Its connection between three vibrant communities also offers opportunities to explore local amenities before or after your ride.
4.6
(13)
39
riders
31.1km
01:56
300m
290m
Embark on the Lamorinda Trail Loop, a moderate touring bicycle route that guides you through the scenic East Bay cities of Lafayette, Moraga, and Orinda. This 19.3-mile (31.1 km) journey, with a total elevation gain of 969 feet (295 metres), offers a pleasant ride that you can complete in about 1 hour and 56 minutes. You'll experience a predominantly paved path, largely separated from road traffic, providing a smooth and enjoyable cycling experience. As you pedal, look for the unique Horseshoe Bend on the Lafayette-Moraga Bike Trail, a distinctive feature along Las Trampas Creek, and take in the views of green hills and diverse natural beauty.
Accessing the Lamorinda Trail Loop is straightforward, as it connects the cities of Lafayette, Orinda, and Moraga, allowing you to start your ride from any of these locations. Maps for the loop are readily available from each city, often displayed at local BART stations and community centers. These resources can help you plan your starting point and navigate the route with ease. Consider starting early to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, especially on weekends.
The central section of the route, between Lafayette and Moraga, is particularly noteworthy as it follows a historic railroad route through the picturesque Moraga Valley. This segment offers a glimpse into the region's past while providing a tranquil cycling environment. The trail's continuous nature and connection between three distinct communities make it a unique option for exploring the East Bay by bike. It stands out for its well-maintained surface and varied urban and natural landscapes.
16
riders
32.3km
02:03
340m
340m
Embark on a moderate touring bicycle ride through the scenic Moraga Valley on the Lamorinda Trail Loop. This route spans 20.1 miles (32.3 km) and involves a total elevation gain of 1122 feet (342 metres), typically taking about 2 hours and 3 minutes to complete. You will primarily follow paved paths, many of which were once old railroad lines, offering smooth cycling. Enjoy expansive views of the East Bay hills as you pedal, with much of the journey, including sections like the Lafayette-Moraga Regional Trail, safely separated from vehicle traffic. Keep an eye out for the distinctive Horseshoe Bend on the Lafayette-Moraga Bike Trail, a notable feature along your journey.
When planning your ride, you will find convenient parking options available within the communities of Lafayette, Moraga, and Orinda, making access straightforward. While most of the route is paved, be prepared for some segments that might be unpaved and could present a greater challenge. Additionally, certain road sections, such as Moraga Way, can experience significant car traffic; remain alert and aware of your surroundings on these portions. Starting your ride earlier in the day can help you avoid peak traffic times on shared road segments.
The Lamorinda Trail Loop connects the communities of Lafayette, Moraga, and Orinda through a well-established network of trails. This connected system, officially opened in 2006, provides a dedicated and safer touring cycling experience away from main roads for much of its length. The route offers a unique perspective on the region's landscape, blending urban edges with natural scenery. It is an excellent way to explore the area's history of repurposed railway corridors.
Details
Informations
Distance 3.37 km
Uphill 50 m
Downhill 30 m
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Sunday 21 June
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Max wind speed: 20.0 km/h
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