Recommended Scenic Cycling Routes in Los Angeles That Offer Breathtaking Views and a Great Workout

Los Angeles isn’t just about Hollywood and traffic—it’s also home to some of the most stunning cycling routes in the country. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hill climb, a breezy coastal ride, or a peaceful escape into nature, LA offers a variety of scenic routes that combine breathtaking views with a great workout.

In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best cycling routes in Los Angeles, highlighting their unique landscapes, difficulty levels, and why they’re perfect for cyclists who want to enjoy the ride while staying fit.

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1. Griffith Park Loop – A Classic LA Ride

Distance: 11 miles
Elevation Gain: ~1,200 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Griffith Observatory, Downtown LA skyline, Hollywood Sign

Griffith Park is one of LA’s top cycling destinations, offering stunning city views, rolling hills, and plenty of shaded roads. The Griffith Park Loop takes you through the heart of the park, passing iconic landmarks like the Griffith Observatory and giving you a perfect view of the Hollywood Sign.

Why You’ll Love It:

• A great mix of climbing and fast descents
• Multiple route options for different fitness levels
• Plenty of scenic spots to stop for photos

🚴 Pro Tip: Ride in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid traffic and catch the best lighting for skyline views.

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2. Marvin Braude Bike Trail – The Iconic Beach Ride

Distance: 22 miles (one way)
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Highlights: Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach, Malibu coastline

Also known as The Strand, the Marvin Braude Bike Trail is one of the most picturesque coastal rides in Southern California. This mostly flat, paved path runs along the Pacific Ocean, taking you from Torrance Beach all the way to Will Rogers State Beach in Pacific Palisades.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Endless ocean views and a cool sea breeze
• Great for all fitness levels, with optional detours into beachside towns
• Easy access to cafés, bike rentals, and beachfront restaurants

🚴 Pro Tip: Start your ride early to avoid crowds, especially near Venice and Santa Monica.

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3. Angeles Crest Highway – The Ultimate Climbing Challenge

Distance: Varies (up to 66 miles round trip)
Elevation Gain: 5,000+ feet
Difficulty: Advanced
Highlights: Mountain landscapes, sweeping canyon views, challenging climbs

For experienced cyclists looking for a serious workout and epic mountain scenery, Angeles Crest Highway is a must-ride. Starting from La Cañada Flintridge, this route winds through the San Gabriel Mountains, offering panoramic views, twisting descents, and challenging elevation gains.

Why You’ll Love It:

• One of LA’s most legendary climbs
• Stunning views of rugged mountain peaks and deep canyons
• Less traffic than city roads, making it a peaceful ride

🚴 Pro Tip: Bring plenty of water and snacks—services are limited, and the climbs can be grueling!

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4. Mulholland Drive & Topanga Canyon – A Hollywood Hills Adventure

Distance: ~20 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,000+ feet
Difficulty: Moderate to Advanced
Highlights: Hollywood Hills, Santa Monica Mountains, Pacific Ocean views

For a true LA experience, ride Mulholland Drive, one of the most famous roads in Los Angeles. This route takes you through the Hollywood Hills, offering incredible city views on one side and rugged mountain landscapes on the other. Extend your ride into Topanga Canyon for a thrilling descent and a peaceful escape into nature.

Why You’ll Love It:

• A mix of cityscape and natural beauty
• Challenging climbs with rewarding descents
• A chance to spot celebrity homes along the way

🚴 Pro Tip: Watch for cars—Mulholland can be busy, but early mornings offer the best conditions.

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5. Elysian Park – A Hidden Gem Near Downtown

Distance: 3-5 miles (loop)
Elevation Gain: ~500 feet
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Highlights: Dodger Stadium, views of Downtown LA, peaceful roads

If you’re looking for a quick, scenic ride near downtown Los Angeles, Elysian Park is a hidden gem. This low-traffic route offers rolling hills, great views of the LA skyline, and a peaceful escape from the city buzz.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Short but rewarding climbs for a solid workout
• Beautiful, quiet roads with very few cars
• Great for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride

🚴 Pro Tip: Try a sunset ride—Elysian Park offers some of the best golden-hour views of downtown.

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Key Takeaways

• Los Angeles offers a variety of scenic cycling routes, from beachside paths to challenging mountain climbs.
• For coastal rides, the Marvin Braude Bike Trail is a top choice.
• For city views, Griffith Park and Mulholland Drive offer iconic LA scenery.
• For serious climbs, Angeles Crest Highway is an epic challenge.
• For peaceful, hidden gems, Elysian Park provides a quick and scenic workout.

Whether you’re training for a race, looking for a fun ride with friends, or just want to explore LA’s natural beauty, these cycling routes will give you an unforgettable workout with incredible views.

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FAQ

1. What’s the best scenic cycling route in Los Angeles for beginners?

The Marvin Braude Bike Trail is a great option for beginners—it’s mostly flat and follows the coast for a relaxing ride.

2. Which LA cycling routes are best for hill training?

Griffith Park, Mulholland Drive, and Angeles Crest Highway offer challenging climbs for cyclists looking to build strength.

3. Are there any car-free cycling routes in Los Angeles?

Yes! Griffith Park and Elysian Park have low-traffic roads that are great for cyclists. The Marvin Braude Bike Trail is also a car-free path along the beach.

4. When is the best time to cycle in Los Angeles?

Early mornings or late afternoons offer cooler temperatures and less traffic, making for a more enjoyable ride.

5. What should I bring for a long cycling ride in LA?

Pack water, snacks, a repair kit, sunscreen, and lights if riding in the evening. For mountain routes, extra layers are recommended.