Top 3 Scenic Bike Rides Everyone Should Enjoy

Ribbons of peaceful pavement winding through glacially sculpted valleys and high desert landscapes. Every turn reveals unobstructed vistas of the majestic Sierra Nevada and White Mountains, with peaks towering over 12,000 feet. Bishop’s Big Backyard is arguably one of the best destinations in the country for road biking, whether your first ride or testing your skills. To help you get started, here are our top 3 scenic bike rides everyone should enjoy when visiting Bishop.

Each of the routes listed below are highlighted in detail in Bishop’s Biking guide.

Round Valley Loop

Intro to real Road Cycling

Distance: 19.3 miles

Starting at Millpond Recreation Area, this route offers a great introduction to Bishop’s world-class road cycling and gravel grinding. While there are huge climbs reminiscent of the Tour de France, Round Valley instead contains short uphills and downhills, with some sharp corners and sweeping bends. A perfect mix for the first-time visitor. Along the journey, Bishop’s smooth pavement and minimal traffic rewards you with expansive views of the Sierra Nevada on one side and the towering White Mountains on the other. Afterward, you can even combine this ride with a motor-touring adventure of the surrounding region.

Lower Rock Creek

Premier Singletrack or a Scenic Road Ride

Distance: Up to 18.6 miles with Old Sherwin Grade

This area offers a unique opportunity to choose your own two-wheeled adventure. For a focus on scenic views, take a road ride by following Old Sherwin Grade, which parallels US-395, to Lower Rock Creek Road. On Lower Rock Creek Road, you’ll start with a quick descent that quickly transitions to a steady climb for nearly three miles. Or for those that enjoy pedaling of the dirt kind, running alongside the road is one of the region’s premier singletrack trails. This route provides several options, from an out-and-back ride to a even a shuttle.

Pine Creek Canyon

Challenge Yourself

Distance: 18 miles

Are you ready to tackle a more challenging route? Pine Creek Road is the perfect next step. Don’t be deceived by the first mile, which barely climbs—the next eight miles steadily increase in pitch until you reach the head of the canyon. As you wind and twist your way through the deep glacial canyon, you’ll encounter grades ranging from 4% to 11%. Fortunately, the steeper sections are not sustained for too long.