River Rambler

Whatever your speed, this bike ride's for every type of pedal-head, from cushy cruisers to fast tracking with buddies. The Santa Ana River Trail (SART) is SoCal's premier multi-use recreation path. When completed, this coast-to-crest trail will offer 110 miles of traffic-free riding from Big Bear Lake to Huntington Beach. For now, there's 50 miles to explore from San Bernardino to the Pacific shoreline (with the exception of a 15-mile gap in the trail between Norco and Green River Rd.). Start this point-to-point ride at the S. Waterman Avenue trailhead in San Bernardino. The SART follows its namesake waterway through a mix of environs from scenic, wooded sections to uber-urban, linking inland communities with beach areas. Access points all along the trail make it easy to go long or short. On the upper sections near the trail's current eastern terminus, the river flows and trailside wildflowers might start lighting the way early this year. The path winds through residential and industrial areas in Riverside, giving way to some hillier miles near Chino Hills and a pair of regional parks. Pass the giant "A" at Angel Stadium on the way through the city of Orange. The trail's barely-there downhill grade is a treat, but expect headwinds to steal some momentum on this stretch. Moon Park is a fun rest stop before the final cruise past Talbert Marsh, to Huntington Beach.

TIP: Grab a milkshake at Shakeaway (120 5th St., Huntington Beach) and sink your toes into the sand for the perfect post-ride vibe.

The trail's upper section starts at S. Waterman Ave., just north of the I-10 freeway. Riding closer to the beach? The lower section of the SART begins at the south end of Huntington Beach and stretches east to Wier Canyon.