Monterey Bay Coastal Trail and 17-Mile Drive Loop

This combined route is considered moderate. The Monterey Bay Coastal Trail section is largely flat and paved, suitable for all fitness levels. However, the 17 Mile Drive portion includes some steep hills and requires good fitness to complete comfortably.

The entire loop, covering approximately 91 kilometers (56.5 miles), typically takes around 4 to 5 hours to complete on a racebike, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

While vehicles typically pay a fee to enter the 17 Mile Drive, cyclists can often enter for free. However, parking outside the gates can be challenging. There are no permits required for cycling the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail.

The Monterey Bay area generally offers pleasant cycling conditions year-round. However, for the most enjoyable experience, consider cycling in late spring (April-May) or early fall (September-October) when the weather is typically mild, and the fog is less prevalent. Riding early in the morning is recommended to avoid heavier traffic on the 17 Mile Drive, especially on weekends.

For the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail, you can find parking at various points along its length, including near Cannery Row or Fisherman's Wharf. For the 17 Mile Drive, parking outside the gated entrances can be limited. Many cyclists choose to park in nearby towns like Pacific Grove or Carmel-by-the-Sea and cycle to the entrance.

You'll experience diverse scenery, from broad beaches and sand dunes along the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail to dramatic Pacific coastline, majestic forests, and famous golf courses on the 17 Mile Drive. Wildlife sightings are common and include seals, sea otters, sea lions, and various seabirds, with occasional whale sightings in the bay.

The Monterey Bay Coastal Trail is largely car-free, flat, and paved, making it very suitable for families and cyclists of all ages. The 17 Mile Drive, however, has steep hills and shares the road with traffic, making it less ideal for younger children or less experienced family cyclists.

Dogs are generally allowed on the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail, typically on a leash. On the 17 Mile Drive, dogs are permitted but must be on a leash at all times and are not allowed on the golf courses or beaches within the private community.

Yes, this route incorporates significant sections of the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail and also overlaps with portions of the Pacific Coast Bike Route (North) and Pacific Coast Bike Route (South). You'll also find smaller segments of trails like the Del Monte Forest Green Loop trail and the Asilomar Dunes Boardwalk.

Along the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail, you'll pass attractions like the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, and Fisherman's Wharf. The 17 Mile Drive features iconic landmarks such as the Lone Cypress, Bird Rock, Point Joe, Spanish Bay Beach, and the ancient Monterey Cypress trees of Crocker Grove.

Yes, especially along the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail, you'll find numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops in Monterey and Pacific Grove. The 17 Mile Drive also has facilities within its resorts and golf clubs, though these may be more upscale. It's always a good idea to carry sufficient water, especially for the hillier sections.