Biking & Walking-Friendly Areas in Bakersfield, California, United States
1. Kern River Parkway Path
A scenic bike path that follows the Kern River, offering a peaceful and enjoyable ride or walk.
- Length: Extends for more than 20 miles, providing ample space for bikers and pedestrians.
- Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by lush greenery, beautiful river views, and various wildlife.
- Accessibility: Connects to numerous parks, trailheads, and downtown Bakersfield.
2. Bakersfield Creek Trail
A paved trail running along the east fork of Kern River, perfect for casual bike rides and walks.
- Length: Spans approximately 2 miles, great for short trips or connecting with other trails.
- Amenities: Features restrooms, benches, and picnic areas along the trail.
- Nature Watching: Offers opportunities to spot local birds, ducks, and other wildlife.
3. Buena Vista Park
A beautiful park offering bike trails, a skatepark, and a dog park all in one.
- Activities: Provides various activities such as biking, skating, and playing with dogs.
- Facilities: Includes restrooms, picnic areas, and a playground for kids.
- Scenic Views: Offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
4. California Avenue Bikeway
A safe and well-maintained bike route that runs parallel to California Ave., connecting many neighborhoods.
- Connectivity: Links various parts of Bakersfield, making it easy to explore the city by bike.
- Safety: Separated from vehicle traffic by a dedicated lane or median, ensuring safety.
- Urban Experience: Allows cyclists to experience the local culture and businesses along California Ave.
5. Rabbit Ridge Park Trails
A network of challenging mountain bike trails with stunning hilltop views.
- Difficulty Levels: Offers a variety of trails for different skill levels, from beginner to advanced.
- Scenic Beauty: Features beautiful hilltop views of the city and surrounding mountains.
- Seasonal Considerations: Best visited during cooler months due to the rugged terrain.
6. Crowley Lake Recreation Area
A popular spot for hiking, biking, and camping, located just outside Bakersfield.
- Activities: Offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and camping.
- Natural Beauty: Surrounded by beautiful mountains, lakes, and forests.
- Distance from Bakersfield: Located about an hour's drive from downtown Bakersfield.
7. Hart Park Bike Trails
A large city park with paved bike trails and various recreational facilities.
- Size: Covers over 100 acres, providing plenty of space for biking and other activities.
- Facilities: Includes restrooms, picnic areas, a skatepark, and basketball courts.
- Scenic Beauty: Features beautiful landscaping, large trees, and ponds.
8. Buena Vista Lake
A popular spot for water sports, fishing, and camping, offering bike trails as well.
- Activities: Provides various activities such as boating, fishing, and camping.
- Natural Beauty: Surrounded by beautiful hills, forests, and the lake itself.
- Distance from Bakersfield: Located about 20 miles south of downtown Bakersfield.
9. Froberg Park Bike Trails
A picturesque park with bike trails, a dog park, and plenty of green spaces.
- Activities: Offers activities such as biking, walking, playing with dogs, and picnicking.
- Scenic Beauty: Features beautiful landscaping, large trees, and ponds.
- Size: Covers over 30 acres, providing ample space for exploration.
10. Greenline Bikeway
A scenic bike route that runs along the Kern River and connects several parks.
- Connectivity: Links various neighborhood parks and recreational areas.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers beautiful river views and lush greenery.
- Safety: Separated from vehicle traffic by a dedicated lane or median, ensuring safety.
11. Lake Ming Recreation Area
A large recreational area offering various activities, including biking and walking trails.
- Activities: Offers a variety of outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, camping, and hiking.
- Natural Beauty: Surrounded by beautiful hills, forests, and the lake itself.
- Distance from Bakersfield: Located about 15 miles northwest of downtown Bakersfield.
12. Almond Park Bike Trails
A small but scenic city park with bike trails and a playground.
- Size: Covers a relatively small area, perfect for short rides or walks.
- Scenic Beauty: Features beautiful landscaping, large trees, and a pond.
- Facilities: Includes restrooms, picnic areas, and a playground for kids.
13. Rocky Peak Park Bike Trails
A challenging mountain bike trail with stunning views of the surrounding area.
- Difficulty Levels: Offers a variety of trails for different skill levels, from beginner to advanced.
- Scenic Beauty: Features beautiful hilltop views of the city and surrounding mountains.
- Seasonal Considerations: Best visited during cooler months due to the rugged terrain.
14. Caswell Park Bike Trails
A spacious city park with bike trails and various recreational facilities.
- Size: Covers over 10 acres, providing plenty of space for biking and other activities.
- Facilities: Includes restrooms, picnic areas, a playground for kids, and basketball courts.
- Scenic Beauty: Features beautiful landscaping, large trees, and ponds.
15. Fruitvale Lake Recreation Area
A popular recreational area offering fishing, boating, camping, and biking.
- Activities: Provides various activities such as boating, fishing, camping, and hiking.
- Natural Beauty: Surrounded by beautiful hills, forests, and the lake itself.
- Distance from Bakersfield: Located about 25 miles east of downtown Bakersfield.