Lake Chabot to Redwood Regional Park South loop — San Leandro

This road cycling loop is estimated to take around 2 hours and 35 minutes to complete. This duration is for the full 47.9 km (29.8 miles) route, assuming a steady pace for a moderate difficulty ride.

This route is classified as a moderate road ride. It features a significant elevation gain of about 700 meters (2,296 feet), requiring good fitness due to the considerable climbing involved. While not considered advanced, it's definitely not a beginner-friendly ride.

The loop originates from San Leandro, suggesting starting points around Lake Chabot Regional Park. Parking is generally available at the Lake Chabot Marina area, which serves as a common access point for the park. Always check for specific parking regulations and fees upon arrival.

You'll encounter a mix of surfaces on this loop. Much of the route features mostly well-paved surfaces suitable for road cycling. However, be aware that some segments may be unpaved and difficult for thin road tires. While the East Shore Trail — Lake Chabot Regional Park is largely paved, sections within Redwood Regional Park might include fire roads that can be rocky and uneven, though often manageable on a gravel bike.

The route offers diverse and attractive scenery. You'll enjoy views of Lake Chabot, including the Lake Chabot Dam overlook, and its surrounding wooded hills. As you venture into Redwood Regional Park, you'll pass through dense eucalyptus groves, quiet wooded interiors, oak groves, and open meadows, with the park itself known for its second-growth redwoods. Other notable points include Skyline Blvd and the Redwood Regional Park South Entrance.

The East Bay climate generally allows for cycling year-round. However, for the most pleasant experience, consider riding during the spring or fall when temperatures are mild and the landscape is vibrant. Summers can be warm, and winters might bring rain, making some unpaved sections muddy. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.

Yes, traffic can be a significant consideration. Sections of roads like Grass Valley/Golf Links and Seven Hills Road have been noted to have mostly no shoulders and potentially unforgiving car traffic. Lake Chabot Road is a four-lane corridor with high traffic volumes, and while efforts are made to improve cycling infrastructure, some sections lack marked bike lanes. Exercise caution and be highly aware of your surroundings, especially on these more heavily trafficked segments.

This route is primarily a road cycling loop, and while dogs are generally allowed in Lake Chabot Regional Park and Redwood Regional Park, they must be kept on a leash. However, due to the significant road sections and potential traffic, it's generally not recommended for cycling with dogs, especially on a racebike. If you plan to bring a dog, consider shorter, dedicated multi-use trails within the parks.

Generally, you do not need a specific permit to cycle this loop through Lake Chabot Regional Park and Redwood Regional Park. However, there may be parking fees at certain access points, particularly at the Lake Chabot Marina or other park entrances. It's always a good idea to check the East Bay Regional Park District website for the latest fee information before your visit.

While the route itself is primarily natural and residential, you can find amenities near the start/end points in San Leandro or along the edges of the parks. The Lake Chabot Marina often has a small snack bar or store. For more substantial options, you'll need to venture slightly off the main loop into nearby communities.

Yes, this loop intersects with several other official trails, offering opportunities for exploration. Notable trails you'll encounter include sections of the Bay Area Ridge Trail - 02 - East Bay, the East Bay Skyline National Recreation Trail, the East Shore Trail, and the West Shore Trail. Within Redwood Regional Park, you'll also cross paths with trails like the Golden Spike Trail and Willow View Trail.