Santa Ana River Trail in California: a trail for all seasons

When you're getting sick of the cold weather in your neck of the woods, it's time to head to southern California for a bike ride on the Santa Ana River Trail.

the Santa Ana River Trail

Oh sure, you may visit Disneyland, Hollywood, and the beaches. But while you're in the Los Angeles area, you've got to try out some of the great bike trails. For starters, you can bike on the beach on the Huntington Beach Trail that starts in Newport Beach, California. While you're on it, you'll see a trail junction that heads eastward. That is the junction for the Santa Ana River Trail.

The 26 (and growing) mile trail is a great way to see two professional sports stadiums, three California communities, and more flowers than you can shake a stick at. And if you're feeling adventurous, rent a fun set of wheels for a change. Don't feel bound to your usual road or mountain bike. Try a cruiser bike, or a tandem, or a 3GStepper, or ....

All of these options are available at rental shops in Newport Beach. And since the trail is smooth concrete/asphalt and fairly level, now would be a good time to experiment with your blood powered transportation.

For more information about the trail, check out the Santa Ana River Trail guide on Everytrail.com. You'll love the trail and download the guide. Preferably not in that order though.

Santa Ana River Trail in California: a trail for all seasons

Life's a beach, and then you ride.

Holy moly, that's some nice biking!!

The Huntington Beach Trail in California, may be the premier beach trail (dare I say it?) in the world.

Huntington Beach Trail in Newport Beach, California

It's got it all:

• beautiful beaches
• a wonderful bike path
• awesome people watching opportunities
• great rentals of alternative trail vehicles (Check out the 3GStepper)
• cool breezes in the summer and mild California weather in the winter
• incredible food/snack options
• easy access to the Santa Ana River Trail

And more.

I recommend that you start your ride in Newport Beach. Once you find parking (good luck) just head toward the ocean, and you'll find the trail. Once you find the trail, you should have no problem finding someone to rent you a bike or other wheeled trail vehicle.

Don't bother packing a bulky back pack with food. You'll find plenty to graze on as you go. Just bring some money and an appetite. If you don't find enough food options trailside, just head to Main Street (head up at the pier) in Huntington Beach. You'll find some funky-delicious restaurants there.

Make sure to have cool-weather and warm-weather clothing available because you can get some pretty decent weather changes from one minute to the next. The California sun and Pacific breezes team up to provide you with ever-changing conditions.

But ya gotta try this trail. It's crowded on weekends and busy on weekdays. Just chill out and enjoy your fellow trail users. Who knows what you'll see?

Life's a beach, and then you ride.