Ride Your Bike In Beautiful California

It's been said that all of the elements compete to see who is the most beautiful. The desert, the mountains, the ocean all fight for the top honor and the finals are held in California. It is truly one of the most beautiful and naturally diverse states in America. Here is a list of some of the best bike trails in California.

For all of you beginners out there, go to Morgan Hill California. The Henry Coe State Park is a 15 mile loop with terrific rolling terrain, but has very few steep ascents. Especially if you are a beginner, be sure to bring plenty of water and a map. If you are looking for a bit more challenge, there are a few trails that deviate from the main trail.

The Hurkey Creek Trail, home the 24-hour Adrenaline Series, is meant for the more experienced cyclist. This 8 mile loop is located in Idyllwild, CA and comes complete with challenges to keep the biggest adrenaline junkies happy. There are areas that beginners will enjoy, but it is definitely more technical and challenging than your typical beginner trail.

Just like the city that this trail calls home, the Mission Trails Northern Loop in San Diego offers great diversity and has something for everyone. It offers a 12 mile loop with trails for every skill level. These trails offer a lot of fun with fast down hills along the way. Keep in mind that the further you pursue, the more difficult it will become.

The China Camp State Park near San Rafael, California has a 13-mile loop of mostly singletrack. The trails are well-marked, but it might not hurt to have a map handy. The best time to ride is mid-week. On the weekend the trails can become pretty crowded. Watch out for wildlife and pedestrians. You will find some spectacular scenery and some interesting trails to reward you for your efforts.

The French Gulch Run near Redding, CA, is nothing short of amazing! These secluded paths are a favorite among avid mountain bikers. With forests, snake trails and terrific climbs, these trails are perfect for the adventure rider. Bikers are sure to stay amused as there are approximately 100 miles of track. This is definitely one of those trails where you'll want to bring your map, your water and a friend.

If you're looking for a ride that will give you a real kick in the seat, then Mr. Toads is the trail for you. This trail has even been published in many biking magazines because of it's challenging aspects. It is a 20-mile loop near Lake Tahoe. You start out with a 5-mile climb, which can be brutal, but the downhill stretch is awesome! There are lots of rocks, roots, banked turns, technical steep sections, and switchbacks to keep you on your toes. You will be hard pressed to find a more exciting bike trail anywhere else!

California is one of the few states that can offer such a wide variety of terrains. With mountains, lakes, rivers, valleys, oceanviews and forests it is no wonder that nature and cycling enthusiasts alike flock to this great state. If you are looking to expand your cycling horizons, California will not disappoint.