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Mountain Biking San Diego, CA

By Brenda Stokes
May 22, 2006

Summer is right around the corner and there's nothing that complements the hot weather like a nice bike ride. But avid bikers must be careful as the thermostat climbs. It takes less exertion to reach fatigue when the sun is blazing, so be sure to pack plenty of water, take breaks and know your limits. If the terrain looks too dangerous, don't risk it--hoof it. It's better to be safe than sorry.

Here's a few more tips for beginning and even experienced riders who need a refresher course in mountain biking this summer:

Know your gears: You will have to shift gears when riding on some of the more difficult trails. Be sure you know how yours work and that they are functioning properly.
Be courteous: Slow down when passing hikers, other bikers and equestrians. Mowing other nature lovers down is not the way to go.
Don't be a daredevil: Never (ever) venture off the course. The trails are maintained for hiking and biking purposes, but venturing off on your own is just dangerous. Not to mention, you could very well ruin a wild animal's habitat.

Now than you have your helmet firmly secured, a backpack of water bottles and plenty of sunscreen (because you'll need it!) you're ready to hit the trails. The following six are legal areas for riding your bike in the San Diego area. As always, check for land conditions before you head out--it could save you unnecessary grief.

Marian Bear Memorial Park

This park is located in San Clemente Canyon with three miles of flat trails for biking and hiking use. Located near the coast, this biking area is great for summertime biking without the blazing heat--if you should catch a nice sea breeze, that is.

Tecolote Canyon Natural Park

With over six miles of trails, this is the perfect place to go mountain biking. Translating as "owl" in Spanish, Tecolote Canyon Natural Park offers many opportunities for sight seeing and education as well, with their recently constructed Nature Center offering exhibits on all sorts of plant and animal life.

Balboa Park

The park itself is the cultural hub of San Diego, but it also offers fantastic mountain biking trails. You'll get to ride along rocky terrain and view beautiful plant life. And you can't forget the museums and activities right nearby!

Piedras Pintadas Trail

Located in the Lake Hodges area, Piedras Pintadas Trail is nearly 4 miles roundtrip and offers great views of wildlife and Native American rock art. This is a great trail for intermediate riders.

Big Laguna Trail

This is a great single track with nothing too intimidating for the beginning rider. Offers great mountain views and moderate weather. Just be careful of the brush and don't forget to purchase an Adventure Pass at the information center--you'll get a $100 ticket if you don't!

North Shore Lake Hodges

Take a nice long ride on this trail. There are great views of Lake Hodges and wild birds and it's perfect for beginning to intermediate riders. With a roundtrip clocking in at 15 miles, be sure to bring plenty of water!

Brenda Stokes is a freelance writer from southern California. She can be reached at brenda@ph-x.com