Ready to swap four wheels for two and see El Dorado Hills from a fresh angle? Whether you’re a local looking for a new weekend routine or a visitor who wants to skip the usual tourist shuffle, this town’s biking trails are calling. Grab your helmet, fill your water bottle, and let’s roll through the best biking spots and tips for making the most of every ride.
Trail Choices for Every Rider
El Dorado Hills isn’t just a place with a few bike paths. It’s a hub for every kind of cyclist, from those who want a gentle cruise to folks who treat every hill as a personal challenge. Here’s a quick look at what’s waiting for you.
El Dorado Trail: The Main Artery
The El Dorado Trail stretches across the county, with segments already paved and ready for action. The Class I paths are fully separated from traffic, making them perfect for families, beginners, and anyone who prefers their rides without car horns. You’ll find restrooms, water fountains, and even a bike repair station at the Old Depot Bike Park, so no need to worry if your chain decides to rebel mid-ride.
Looking for a longer adventure? The natural trail sections are unpaved and ideal for mountain bikers and those who like a bit of dust on their tires. The trail passes through Historical Railroad Park, under Highway 50, and continues all the way to Camino. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can keep following the route as it extends toward the Tahoe Basin.
Local Loops and Family Favorites
Not every ride needs to be a marathon. The New York Creek Nature Trail is a 1.5-mile unpaved path that winds through 28 acres of native plants and wildlife. It connects Jackson Elementary School and Oak Ridge High School, making it a favorite for families and anyone who likes a bit of shade with their scenery.
The Saratoga Recreation Trail is another crowd-pleaser. This path mixes decomposed granite and concrete, stretching from the Crescent Ridge neighborhood through Saratoga Estates. It connects to the larger Promontory Trail system, so you can keep going if you’re feeling energetic. Picnic tables, benches, and a bike fix-it station at the Saratoga Trailhead mean you can take a break, snack, and patch up any flat tires without breaking a sweat.
Mountain Biking Hotspots
If your idea of fun involves more bumps and jumps, El Dorado Hills delivers. There are over 55 mountain biking trails in the area, covering about 41 miles. Popular routes include:
-
Acorn Creek Chaparral Ridge Loop (6 miles): Great for those who want a bit of a challenge without spending all day in the saddle.
-
Brown’s Ravine Love Trail (4 miles): Short, sweet, and scenic.
-
Skunky Salmon Loop (19 miles): For those who like their rides long and their legs tired.
Recent trail reports show most routes are in ideal condition, so you can expect smooth riding and plenty of company. With more than 11,000 rides logged, you’ll find both seasoned locals and new faces on the trails.
Events and Group Rides
Planning to visit after May 25? Keep an eye out for group rides and volunteer trail workdays, especially on weekends. These events are a great way to meet other cyclists, learn new routes, and maybe even pick up a few local secrets. The El Dorado Trail often hosts community ride days, and local bike shops sometimes organize social rides for all skill levels.
Trail Tips and Amenities
-
Trail Maps: Pick up a free pocket-sized trail map at the El Dorado Hills Community Services District office. It highlights paved and unpaved trails, bikeways, and connections between routes.
-
Rest Stops: Many trails offer benches, picnic tables, and shaded areas. Pack a snack or grab a sandwich from a local deli and make a day of it.
-
Bike Repair: Don’t let a flat tire ruin your ride. The Saratoga Trailhead and Old Depot Bike Park both have bike fix-it stations.
-
Parking: Trailheads like Saratoga Way and Historical Railroad Park offer parking, so you can start your ride without circling for a spot.
Tips for a Smooth Ride
-
Check Trail Conditions: Most trails are in great shape, but after rain, some mountain bike routes can get muddy. Look up recent trail reports before heading out.
-
Bring Water: California sun doesn’t mess around. Hydrate before, during, and after your ride.
-
Share the Path: Many trails are multi-use, so be ready to wave at walkers, runners, and even the occasional horse.
Explore More
El Dorado Hills is a goldmine for anyone who loves to bike. From gentle family paths to rugged mountain routes, there’s a trail for every mood and skill level. Don’t forget to snap a few photos, wave at fellow riders, and enjoy the ride, because in El Dorado Hills, every trail leads to a new story.
Sources: google.com, trekbikes.com, visit-eldorado.com
Header Image Source: Heather Wilde on Unsplash
