Biking in Del Mar - Hwy 56 Bike path questions

Others here might have much more specific information, but when I train in an unfamiliar location I usually scout the route using google maps. Using the satellite feature you can usually see exactly where and how the path travels. I'll also use strava for ideas what might make a good route.

For mileages, there is an excellent route planner on this site (Training Log -> My Routes)


The unknown is part of the fun of training someplace new. Have fun!

If you start near the western end, Ride to the western most end (No direct access to the extreme end of the path)
then ride to the eastern end and back to where you started its an 18mi loop.

There are three places where you have to stop and cross on grade level and if your from flatland you may find it hilly.

There is also a flatter 18 mil trail up in oceanside near the 76, only 1 grade level crossing (not actually a crossing, but 0.2mi in a neighborhood)

There is a lot of bike traffic on pacific coast highway from the del mar area all the way to Oceanside.

Also a nice path up in Camp Pendelton that goes along old hwy 1 and some campground, again about 10 miles out and 10 back...

I'm not familiar with anything south of the 56 (does't mean its not good, just not my backyard)

I actually just biked it today. If you go all the way east and back (east it turns into Ted Williams Parkway and technically isn't the bike path anymore) it's roughly 25 miles round trip. I guess you can consider the "bike path proper" to be up to Rancho Penasquitos. It's pretty well paved, a few cracks here and there. Somewhat hilly (although not steep) going east, and obviously mostly downhill going west. Depending on the time of day (and day of week) you will encounter other cyclists and runners.

Thanks everyone !! Really appreciate the info! Will look into the other options as well! Excited to bike in some different areas.

You will have a blast cycling in San Diego. As you've maybe heard, the weather is almost always perfect! Yes, there is a lot of traffic, but there also lots of cyclists out everyday so cars seem generally aware of sharing the road.

Here is a great list of rides from a local coaching company, Slow Step Cycling. There are some excellent options, especially if you have access to a car: http://www.slowstepcycling.com/the-rides/

My personal recommendation is to not leave town without riding the Great Western Loop. It is a true gem.

Enjoy!
Lars