Attraction of the Week: San Diego’s Mission Bay Bike Path
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On a recent vacation to San Diego (my first time visiting after years of putting it off), I took a ride on the Mission Bay bike path. In my opinion, this is a hidden gem that any nature and fitness enthusiast should take advantage of. It’s super flat, paved, and gorgeous, not to mention so much less crowded than the beach paths. This low-key path is a nice quiet escape for those who want to run/bike/walk with the absence of large groups of tourists, yet still enjoy fabulous views. I was super impressed; I got in a great workout along with tranquil views of the bay and palms.
The path starts in Mission Bay Park, so there is a lot of free parking available which is a nice change of pace from most congested beach areas. Palm trees, green grass, water, and pretty parks surround you in every direction. Being that there are no hills whatsoever, along with the general lack of crowds, it’s a great place for sightseeing and taking photos. Getting in a great workout is just another bonus. It’s so nice to get in a great workout while on vacation without feeling like you are working out. If anything, I felt more like I was sightseeing and getting in fresh air.
I have always been a big fan of palm trees so I enjoyed the tropical scenery along this course. It was a beautiful overcast day (yes, I love gloomy weather) which is quite rare in this perpetually sunny city. As Mike and I traveled here from dry Flagstaff, we appreciated the change in scenery. While hiking in Northern Arizona is awesome, there is a lack of paved bike paths. So it was fun to see some greenery and enjoy the ocean scenery.
I also loved the marina views – the scenery is so relaxing. I kept imagining how nice it would be to own one of those boats and enjoy some time on the water every week!
How long is the trail?
The full trail around the bay is about 12 miles or so, however, you can turn around whenever you feel like it if you are not up for a long ride. And if you are feeling extra pumped up, you can extend your ride even further, by connecting to other paths (Fiesta Island is very scenic and easy and the San Diego River Trail is another great option).
The options are endless really, and this city sure is a beautiful place to enjoy some long distance running or biking! If I lived in the area, this would definitely be my choice for my long running day of my half marathon training. Locals are so lucky to have regular access to such a beautiful path.
Furthermore, you can take detours to Mission and Pacific Beach (I love the boardwalk here). It will be more time on your bike, but worth it over trying to find parking again somewhere else.
A great workout for almost everyone
Biking is a great activity to incorporate into any vacation plans as it is a fun & healthy way to explore the natural surroundings of an area and check out diverse neighborhoods in a short period of time. It’s also an entertaining & simple way to get in some exercise after all that time in the car/plane.
Fortunately, we drove and conveniently brought our own bikes. Rentals are available all over town, so you shouldn’t have a problem. Of course, I recommend saving money and bringing your own, if possible.
This path is perfect for all fitness levels due to the easy terrain. It’s not a rough and tough trail, just an easy stroll or bike ride through nature, making it the perfect addition to any vacation itinerary. I like to keep it a bit easier on vacation so I don’t come home feeling like I need to take more time off.
Plus, you’ll pass a lot of fun city attractions like Seaworld and Belmont Amusement Park (depending on how far you ride). Taking a break to ride the Giant Dipper coaster at Belmont is just one way to have fun along the route.
Additional details
Mission Bay Park is located at: 2688 E Mission Bay Dr. in San Diego. Parking is free.
To plan your route, check out details on the bike path’s website.
Note: Most of the beginning of this path is free of any traffic, although there are a few road crossings the further you continue on. For a really easy, enjoyable ride with no road crossings, keep it simple and just bike around Mission Park (about 4 miles or so of easy riding).
