The ultimate guide to the LA River Bike paths

LA River Bike Path: The Ultimate Guide to Riding, Sights, and Stops

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The Los Angeles River Bike Path offers a unique way to explore the city's hidden natural beauty and vibrant, diverse neighborhoods. According to the Los Angeles River Revitalization Corporation, the path currently spans 32 miles of the river's 51-mile length, but plans are underway to close the gaps and create a continuous greenway from the San Fernando Valley to Long Beach.

Discover the hidden gem of Los Angeles - the LA River Bike Path.

This scenic Class I bicycle and pedestrian path winds along the banks of the Los Angeles River, offering a unique way to explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, vibrant culture, and natural beauty.

LA River bike path map.

Stretching from the lush greenery of Griffith Park in the north to the coastal community of Long Beach in the south, the LA River Path takes riders on a journey through the heart of the Greater Los Angeles area. The path's main route runs parallel to the river, with key sections including the 7.4-mile Elysian Valley Bicycle & Pedestrian Path and the LARIO segment from Vernon to Long Beach.

Originally constructed with concrete banks for flood control after the devastating Los Angeles Flood of 1938, the river has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. Thanks to the efforts of organizations like Friends of the Los Angeles River and local U.S. Representative Brad Sherman, the once-neglected waterway is now a thriving recreational corridor, with ongoing projects aimed at restoring the river's natural habitats and extending the bike path as part of the Greenway 2020 campaign.

With its smooth asphalt surface and mostly flat grade, the LA River Bike Path is accessible to cyclists of all skill levels and pedestrians, joggers, and skaters. Along the way, you'll encounter a variety of attractions, from pocket parks and public art installations to local cafes and breweries that cater to the vibrant cycling community.

So grab your bike and get ready to experience Los Angeles like never before on the LA River Bike Path - a hidden oasis of adventure, culture, and natural beauty in the heart of the city.

Elysian Valley Path 

The Elysian Valley section of the LA River Bike Path, also known as the Glendale Narrows Elysian Valley Bicycle & Pedestrian Path, is a popular 7.4-mile stretch running through the heart of Los Angeles. Some key features and highlights of this segment include:

  • The path runs along both river banks, crossing several pedestrian bridges, and is lined with parks, coffee shops, and restaurants.
  • Access points with parking are located at Griffith Park/LA Zoo on the north end and Elysian Park on the south end.
  • Popular stops include Spoke Bicycle Cafe, Frogtown Park, and the colorful animal sculptures at Lewis MacAdams Riverfront Park.
  • The path is popular with commuters, recreational riders, and pedestrians and can get crowded on weekends.
  • Riders can extend their trip on the path south to Downtown LA and Vernon or north into the San Fernando Valley, though some gaps still exist.
  • The Glendale Narrows section has a more natural, soft-bottom character than the fully concretized channel along other parts of the river.
  • Ongoing revitalization efforts led by the City of LA and local organizations aim to enhance the path with more parks, amenities, and connections to surrounding neighborhoods.

Taylor Yard Bridge:

One notable addition to the Elysian Valley Path is the Taylor Yard Bridge, a 400-foot pedestrian and bicycle bridge that opened in March 2021. The bridge connects the Elysian Valley and Cypress Park neighborhoods, providing a crucial link in the LA River Bike Path network. Key points about the Taylor Yard Bridge include:The bridge spans the LA River at the site of the former Taylor Yard rail facility, which is being transformed into a 42-acre park called the Taylor Yard G2 River Park.
Designed by SPF: architects, the bridge features a unique, spiral-shaped freestanding steel arch and a deck made of lightweight concrete.
The bridge provides stunning views of the LA River, Elysian Valley, and surrounding mountains.

 

bridge taylor yardTaylor Yard Bridge

The Elysian Valley segment showcases the LA River Bike Path's potential as a community asset and alternative transportation corridor. With its growing popularity, the path is poised to become an iconic recreational feature connecting Angelenos to the river and each other.

Long Beach to Vernon Path

The Long Beach to Vernon section is the longest continuous stretch of the LA River Bike Path, running for approximately 20 miles from the river's mouth in Long Beach to Atlantic Boulevard in Vernon. Some key features of this segment include:

  • The path starts at the Shoreline Pedestrian Bikepath in Long Beach and passes through several riverfront parks as it heads north, including Wrigley Greenbelt, Hollydale Park, and Ralph C. Dills Park.
  • The path runs along the river's east bank in Long Beach. After crossing the river on the Imperial Highway Bridge, it continues north along the west bank to Vernon.
  • At its northern end in Vernon, the path connects to the Rio Hondo River Trail, which heads northeast towards the Whittier Narrows Recreation Area.
  • This section of the path passes through a mix of natural river landscapes and industrial areas as it traverses the cities of Long Beach, Paramount, South Gate, Lynwood, Compton, and Vernon.
  • Access points with parking can be found at several parks along the route, including DeForest Park in Long Beach and Hollydale Park in South Gate.
  • Mile markers and signage help path users track their progress and location. Some segments also have lighting for evening use.
  • This path portion is popular with commuters, recreational riders looking for a longer ride, joggers, and pedestrians.
  • Plans call for connecting this southern stretch with the northern segments to create a continuous 51-mile bikeway along the entire length of the LA River.

The Long Beach to Vernon section demonstrates the potential of the LA River Bike Path as a regional active transportation corridor and recreational amenity. As the longest completed portion of the path, it provides an essential link in the growing LA River Greenway network. Topic: Safety and Etiquette
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Access and Amenities

The LA River Bike Path offers numerous access points, trailheads, and amenities for cyclists and pedestrians. Some key features include:

  • There are over 100 access points to the LA River Bike Path, ranging from well-signed trailheads to informal entrances through holes in the fence along the river.
  • Griffith Park, Elysian Valley Gateway Park, Maywood Riverfront Park, Hollydale Regional Park in South Gate, Ralph C. Dills Park in Paramount, and DeForest Park in Long Beach have major trailheads with parking.
  • Many access points connect to the opposite river bank via pedestrian bridges. 45% of the path's access points have a bridge crossing.
  • Various parks along the route, such as Marsh Park, Elysian Valley Gateway Park, Maywood Riverfront Park, and Hollydale Regional Park, offer amenities such as restrooms, water fountains, bike repair stations, and seating areas.
  • The path is dotted with pocket parks, public art, and river-adjacent businesses, such as Spoke Bicycle Cafe and Frogtown Brewery in Elysian Valley, that cater to trail users.
  • Mile markers, signage, and trail maps help users navigate the path and track their progress. Some segments also have lighting for evening use.
  • Bike rental and tour companies like LA River Kayaks and Bikes offer hourly and daily rentals for riding the path and guided tours.
  • The path is accessible by public transit, with Metro stations and bus stops located near various access points along the route. Bike racks and lockers are available at some stations.

As the LA River Bike Path continues to grow and connect, revitalization projects led by local cities and organizations are adding more trailheads, river parks, and amenities. These investments aim to enhance the path's accessibility, convenience, and user experience for the diverse communities it serves.

Must-See Spots

The LA River Bike Path offers numerous must-see spots and attractions for cyclists and pedestrians to enjoy along the route. Some highlights include:

  • Spoke Bicycle Cafe in Elysian Valley - A popular cyclist pitstop with coffee, snacks, and an outdoor patio overlooking the river.
  • Lewis MacAdams Riverfront Park - Named after a local activist, this park features colorful animal sculptures and a playground.
  • Marsh Park—Located in Elysian Valley, this park has a bike repair station, restrooms, and river access for bird watching.
  • Maywood Riverfront Park - Situated along the path in Maywood, this park offers a natural respite with native plants and trees.
  • Wrigley Greenbelt - A linear park in Long Beach running parallel to the bike path with grass, trees, and benches.
  • Hollydale Regional Park - The path passes through this large park in South Gate, which has sports fields, a skate park, and picnic areas.
  • Dominguez Gap Wetlands - A restored wetland area adjacent to the path in North Long Beach with walking trails and bird-watching opportunities.
  • Long Beach Shoreline Marina - The path ends here at the mouth of the LA River, where cyclists can enjoy waterfront dining and coastal views.

These points of interest showcase the diverse landscapes and experiences along the LA River Bike Path, from urban parks and natural habitats to cultural landmarks and recreational hubs.

Riverside Dining and Drinks

The LA River Bike Path has several interesting local businesses, restaurants, and bars catering to cyclists, pedestrians, and neighborhood residents. Some popular spots include:

  • Spoke Bicycle Cafe in Elysian Valley - Located right on the bike path, this unique cafe offers coffee, beer, sandwiches, and bike repairs. It's a popular gathering spot for cyclists, with a large outdoor patio overlooking the river.
  • Frogtown Brewery in Elysian Valley - This craft brewery is located just off the path on Gilroy Street and features a variety of locally-made beers, food trucks, and outdoor seating.
  • La Colombe Coffee in Frogtown - This trendy coffee shop is a short ride from the path on Ripple Street and offers specialty coffee drinks, pastries, and light fare.
  • Salazar in Frogtown - Known for its Sonoran-style BBQ and cocktails, this popular restaurant has a spacious patio and is a quick detour from the path on Fletcher Drive.
  • Wax Paper Co. in Frogtown - This small sandwich shop on Ripple Street is a hidden gem among cyclists, serving creative sandwiches named after NPR personalities.
  • Golden Road Brewing in Atwater Village—While not directly on the path, this large brewery and pub is a favorite destination for riders. It offers a wide selection of craft beers, pub fare, and a dog-friendly patio.
  • Hollydale Cafe in South Gate - Located a block from the path on Garfield Avenue, this old-school diner is a popular breakfast and lunch spot for cyclists riding the southern stretch.

These bike-friendly businesses along the LA River Path offer a taste of the local flavor and provide welcoming rest stops for hungry and thirsty riders. As the path continues to grow and connect, more restaurants, cafes, and community hubs are likely to spring up along its banks, enhancing the vibrant culture and character of the river corridor.

Connecting Trails and Extended Rides

The LA River Bike Path is the backbone for an extensive network of connecting trails and bikeways that allow cyclists to extend their rides across the Los Angeles region. Some notable connecting trails include:

  • The Rio Hondo River Trail - This 17.1-mile path starts at the confluence of the LA River and Rio Hondo in South Gate and heads northeast through the Whittier Narrows Recreation Area, connecting to the San Gabriel River Trail.
  • The Arroyo Seco Bike Path Runs for 2 miles from Montecito Heights to South Pasadena and connects to the LA River near the 110 Freeway.
  • The Compton Creek Bike Path—This 5.2-mile path runs along Compton Creek, a tributary of the LA River, from Del Amo Blvd to the river confluence in Long Beach.
  • The Ballona Creek Bike Path - While not directly connected, this 7-mile path from Culver City to Playa del Rey can be accessed via the Expo Line Metro from the LA River.
  • The San Gabriel River Trail - Stretching 28 miles from Seal Beach to Azusa, this path can be reached via the Rio Hondo River Trail or a bike ride through Whittier Narrows.
  • The Santa Ana River Trail - Though further afield, ambitious riders can reach this 30-mile path from Huntington Beach to the Orange/Riverside County line via the San Gabriel River Trail.

In addition to these connecting trails, cyclists on the LA River Path can use the city's growing Metro system to extend their range. Some notable transit connections and destinations include:

  • Union Station in Downtown LA offers access to the Red, Purple, Gold Lines, Metrolink, and Amtrak trains.
  • The Expo Line from Downtown LA to Santa Monica allows riders to travel from the river to the beach.
  • The Gold Line from East LA to Azusa passes by the LA River near DTLA and provides access to destinations like Old Town Pasadena and the San Gabriel Mountains.
  • The Blue Line from DTLA to Long Beach runs parallel to the southern stretch of the LA River Bike Path.

By combining the LA River Bike Path with these connecting trails and transit options, cyclists can embark on extended rides and multi-modal adventures across the diverse landscapes and communities of the Los Angeles Basin. These connections enhance the path's utility as a recreational amenity and a practical transportation corridor.

Connecting to Griffith Park

The LA River Bike Path provides a convenient connection to Griffith Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States. Cyclists can access Griffith Park from the river path via the Griffith Park Drive/Riverside Drive bridge near the LA Zoo and the I-5 freeway. Once in the park, riders can explore an extensive network of trails and attractions, including:

  • The Griffith Park Bike Loop - A popular 8.5-mile route that circles the park's perimeter, passing by the LA Zoo, Travel Town Museum, and the Autry Museum of the American West.
  • The Los Angeles River Greenway Trail - This 2.5-mile path runs along the river's east bank from Riverside Drive to Los Feliz Boulevard, offering a more natural riding experience.
  • The Griffith Observatory - Cyclists can ride up to this iconic landmark via the West Observatory Trail or East Observatory Trail for panoramic city views.
  • The Hollywood Sign - Riders can glimpse the famous sign from various points in the park, including the Griffith Observatory and the Mt. Hollywood Trail.

In addition to these cycling routes, Griffith Park offers numerous other attractions and amenities, such as the Greek Theatre, the Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round, the Los Angeles Live Steamers Railroad Museum, and over 50 miles of hiking trails. To reach the park from the LA River Path, cyclists can exit at the Riverside Drive bridge and follow the signs for Griffith Park Drive. The park's southeastern entrance at the Los Feliz Boulevard and Riverside Drive intersection also provides access to the river path via a short connector trail. By linking the LA River Bike Path to Griffith Park, cyclists can combine a riverside ride with an adventure in one of the city's most iconic green spaces, enjoying diverse recreational opportunities and cultural attractions.

Extended Ride to Santa Monica

Cyclists on the LA River Bike Path can extend their ride to Santa Monica by connecting to the Metro Expo Line. The Expo Line runs from Downtown Los Angeles to downtown Santa Monica, offering cyclists a convenient way to travel from the river to the beach in under an hour. To access the Expo Line from the LA River Path, riders can exit the path near Downtown LA and go to the 7th Street/Metro Center station, which serves as a hub for the Expo, Red, Purple, and Blue Lines. From there, cyclists can board the Expo Line to the Downtown Santa Monica station just a few blocks from the Santa Monica Pier and beach. Some notable destinations and attractions near the Downtown Santa Monica station include:

  • Santa Monica Place - An upscale outdoor shopping mall with dining and entertainment options.
  • Third Street Promenade - A pedestrian-friendly street known for its shops, restaurants, and street performers.
  • Santa Monica Pier - The historic pier features an amusement park, aquarium, restaurants, and iconic views of the Pacific Ocean.
  • Tongva Park is a 6-acre park with walking paths, public art, and ocean views just south of the pier.
  • The Marvin Braude Bike Trail - Also known as The Strand, this 22-mile beachfront path runs from Santa Monica south to Torrance.

Cyclists can bring their bikes on the Expo Line (with some restrictions during peak hours) or rent bikes from the Metro Bike Share stations near the Downtown Santa Monica station. For a more scenic and leisurely route, riders can also follow the Marvin Braude Bike Trail south from Santa Monica to Venice Beach, Marina del Rey, and beyond, enjoying ocean views and beach town vibes. By connecting the LA River Bike Path to the Expo Line and the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, cyclists can create a memorable "river to the sea" ride that showcases the diverse landscapes and experiences of the Los Angeles region, from urban parks and cultural landmarks to coastal communities and the Pacific Ocean.