Cycling in Redding

On the one wheel, you have the trails capital of California, on the other: the sunniest city in the state. Put them together, and you have a cyclist’s paradise!

Redding’s Sacramento River National Recreation Trail is a two-trail arrangement that crosses the internationally-acclaimed Sundial Bridge and travels north to Shasta Dam alongside an historic abandoned railway. Sundial Bridge stands in the heart of town and is considered the hub of Redding’s impressive trail system: paved pedestrian trails fan out from either end of the bridge and wind their way up hills, through botanical gardens, along the water, and across town. In the rolling foothills just east of town, the Shasta Wheelmen put on their annual Super Century and Jamboree rides, covering various distances through the gorgeous October back roads.

The areas surrounding Shasta Lake and Whiskeytown National Recreation Area offer abundant unpaved trails that are popular with single track bicyclists, and the nearby mountains present endless opportunities for great trail experiences. The Lemurian Shasta Classic, one of the oldest and most famous mountain bike races, is a jewel in Redding’s muddy, well-worn bike helmet and draws riders from all over the West to its epic loop every April.

With most hotels just a short ride from the trail system, and several bike shops offering maps, advice, and gear, more and more Redding visitors are coming to town with bikes in tow. Pump up those tires and #RideRedding! See a map of Redding cycling trails or pick up a free trail map at the Redding Visitor Center at Turtle Bay Coffee Bar and Store.