Must-Ride Scenic Biking Trails For Every Rider

Southern California isn’t just beaches and freeways—it’s also home to some of the most breathtaking and diverse biking trails in the region. Whether you're into smooth gravel rides or rugged mountain terrain, these five handpicked routes in and around Temecula, La Cresta, De Luz, and Pala offer something for every level of cyclist.

1. La Cresta Loop – Murrieta, CA

• Distance: 52 miles

• Difficulty: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Challenging)

• Mode: Road & Gravel

• Ideal Bike: Gravel or endurance road bike

• Terrain: Rolling hills, paved and some gravel

• Highlights: This scenic route offers long stretches of low-traffic roads, beautiful views of the Santa Rosa Plateau, and challenging climbs that make it a favorite among serious road and gravel cyclists.

2. De Luz to Sandia Creek – Temecula/Fallbrook, CA

• Distance: ~26 miles

• Difficulty: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Moderate)

• Mode: Gravel biking

• Ideal Bike: Gravel or cyclocross bike

• Terrain: Rural roads, light gravel, occasional creek crossings

• Highlights: A peaceful and picturesque ride through canyons and avocado groves, this trail offers light gravel roads, shade, and occasional wildlife sightings—ideal for weekend warriors seeking a tranquil escape.

3. Granite Falls Trail – Pala, CA

• Distance: ~1.5 miles (out & back)

• Difficulty: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Advanced)

• Mode: Mountain biking

• Ideal Bike: Full-suspension MTB

• Terrain: Steep, rocky singletrack

• Highlights: Short but intense, this hidden gem features a rugged technical climb and descent with the reward of a beautiful seasonal waterfall at the end, perfect for experienced riders craving adventure.

4. Temecula Creek Trail – Temecula, CA

• Distance: ~6 miles round-trip

• Difficulty: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Easy to Moderate)

• Mode: Gravel or leisure biking

• Ideal Bike: Gravel or hybrid

• Terrain: Flat, wide gravel path

• Highlights: Following the calm waters of Temecula Creek, this flat gravel path is perfect for beginners and families, with opportunities for birdwatching and easy access from nearby neighborhoods.

5. Vail Lake Resort Trails – Temecula, CA

• Distance: 10–25 miles (various loops)

• Difficulty: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Intermediate to Advanced)

• Mode: Mountain biking

• Ideal Bike: MTB (Full-suspension recommended)

• Terrain: Rocky, flowy singletrack with lake views

• Highlights: With a range of loops and terrain, Vail Lake’s trail system offers scenic lake views, technical climbs, and flowy singletrack sections, making it a prime destination for XC and enduro riders alike.