How to Bike the Los Angeles River Path in Long Beach

The Los Angeles River Path in Long Beach represents one of Southern California’s most underappreciated urban cycling treasures. Stretching from the confluence of the Los Angeles River with the San Gabriel River near the Long Beach border, this paved, car-free corridor offers cyclists a safe, scenic, and historically rich route through the heart of the region’s industrial and ecological transformation. Unlike the more crowded and commercialized coastal bike paths, the River Path provides a quiet, tree-lined escape with views of restored wetlands, public art installations, and remnants of the city’s early 20th-century infrastructure. Whether you’re a local seeking a new weekend routine or a visitor looking to experience LA beyond its beaches and freeways, biking the Los Angeles River Path in Long Beach delivers a unique blend of nature, history, and urban renewal.

This guide is designed to help you navigate, prepare for, and fully enjoy this 12-mile stretch of the river path—from its starting point near the 605 Freeway interchange to its terminus at the Long Beach waterfront. We’ll break down every practical step, share best practices for safety and comfort, recommend essential tools, highlight real-world rider experiences, and answer the most common questions. By the end of this guide, you’ll have everything you need to ride confidently, responsibly, and joyfully along one of LA’s most underrated cycling routes.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Choose Your Starting Point

The Los Angeles River Path in Long Beach officially begins near the intersection of the 605 Freeway and the river’s eastern bank, just south of the city of Bellflower. However, for most cyclists, the most accessible and popular launch point is the Long Beach River Path Trailhead located at 1100 E. 7th Street, Long Beach, CA 90805. This spot features ample parking, public restrooms, bike racks, and clear signage marking the start of the path. If you’re coming from downtown LA or the San Gabriel Valley, you can access the trail via the 605 Freeway exit at Firestone Boulevard and follow local streets to the trailhead.

Alternatively, if you’re already in Long Beach and prefer to start closer to the waterfront, you can begin at the Estero Bay Trail Connector near the intersection of 1st Street and the river. This point is ideal if you plan to extend your ride to the Long Beach Boardwalk or the RMS Queen Mary.

Step 2: Prepare Your Bicycle

While the path is mostly flat and paved, it includes stretches of older concrete, minor cracks, and occasional gravel runoff from adjacent roads. A hybrid bike, commuter bike, or gravel bike with 32mm+ tires is ideal. Road bikes with narrow tires are usable but not recommended for beginners due to the uneven surfaces. Ensure your tires are properly inflated (check manufacturer specs, typically 45–65 PSI for hybrid tires), your brakes are responsive, and your chain is lubricated.

Before you ride, perform a quick safety check:

• Test your front and rear brakes by squeezing both levers firmly.
• Spin each wheel to ensure it rotates freely without wobbling.
• Check that your saddle and handlebars are securely tightened.
• Carry a spare inner tube, tire levers, and a mini pump or CO2 inflator—repair stations are sparse along the route.

For longer rides or if you plan to continue beyond the path, consider a lightweight rack and panniers for water, snacks, and layers. The path has no dedicated bike shops, so preparation is key.

Step 3: Plan Your Route Along the Path

The Los Angeles River Path in Long Beach runs approximately 12 miles from the 605 Freeway to the intersection of 1st Street and the riverfront. The path is clearly marked with green signage and painted arrows. It generally follows the north bank of the river, staying parallel to the 605 Freeway and crossing under several bridges.

Key landmarks along the route include:

• 7th Street Trailhead – Start here for full amenities.
• Heritage Park Bridge – A scenic overpass with interpretive signs about the river’s history.
• Seal Beach Wetlands Restoration Area – A protected habitat with birdwatching platforms and native plantings.
• 110th Street Overpass – Offers panoramic views of the river channel and surrounding neighborhoods.
• Long Beach Riverwalk Park – A rest stop with picnic tables, shade, and public art.
• 1st Street Connector – Ends near the Long Beach Convention Center and the waterfront.

Use a GPS app like Komoot, RideWithGPS, or Google Maps (set to “Bicycle” mode) to track your progress. Download offline maps in case cellular service is spotty near the riverbed.

Step 4: Navigate Intersections and Crossings

Although the path is mostly separated from vehicle traffic, you’ll encounter several crossings where the path intersects with local streets. These include:

• Firestone Boulevard
• Long Beach Boulevard
• 110th Street
• 1st Street

At each crossing, slow down, make eye contact with drivers, and yield to vehicles unless you have the right-of-way. Many intersections have pedestrian crosswalks with flashing beacons—wait for the signal before proceeding. Always dismount and walk your bike across busy intersections if you’re uncertain about traffic flow.

Be especially cautious near the 605 Freeway underpass, where drainage grates and uneven pavement can catch narrow tires. Ride slowly and maintain a straight line.

Step 5: Take Breaks and Enjoy the Scenery

Don’t rush this ride. The Los Angeles River Path is as much about observation as it is about cycling. Plan to stop at least twice during your journey:

• At Heritage Park Bridge, pause to read the historical plaques detailing the river’s transformation from a concrete flood control channel to a revitalized ecological corridor.
• At Long Beach Riverwalk Park, sit under the shade trees and watch for great blue herons, egrets, and the occasional red-tailed hawk soaring overhead.

There are no food vendors directly on the path, so bring your own snacks and water. A refill station is available near the 110th Street rest area, but it’s not always reliable—assume you’ll need to carry all your hydration.

Step 6: End Your Ride at the Waterfront

The official endpoint of the Los Angeles River Path in Long Beach is at the intersection of 1st Street and the riverbank, just south of the Long Beach Convention Center. From here, you can:

• Turn right and follow the Long Beach Waterfront Bike Path to the RMS Queen Mary, the Aquarium of the Pacific, and the Pike Outlets.
• Turn left and ride along the beachfront promenade toward Shoreline Village.
• Use the public transit stop at 1st and Ocean to catch the Long Beach Transit Line 109 or 110 to return to your starting point.

If you’re riding a shared bike or e-bike, check if your rental service has a drop-off station nearby. Most dockless e-bikes allow end-of-trip parking within designated zones, but avoid blocking sidewalks or entrances.

Step 7: Return or Extend Your Ride

Many cyclists choose to make this a loop ride. After reaching the waterfront, you can return via the Long Beach Bike Path along Ocean Boulevard, which parallels the coast and offers stunning ocean views. This adds another 8–10 miles to your ride, making it a full 20–22 mile outing.

If you prefer a shorter ride, turn around at the Long Beach Riverwalk Park (about 6 miles from the start) and return the way you came. This is ideal for families or riders with limited time.

Best Practices

1. Ride During Off-Peak Hours

The Los Angeles River Path is busiest on weekend afternoons, especially between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. To avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful ride, aim to start between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m. on weekends or during weekday mornings. Early rides also offer cooler temperatures and better lighting for photography.

2. Wear Visible Clothing and Use Lights

Even during daylight, the path is shaded in many areas under bridges and tree canopies. Wear bright or reflective clothing, and attach a front white light and rear red light to your bike—even in the daytime. Many cyclists have reported near-misses with joggers or dogs that suddenly appear from side paths. Lights increase your visibility and signal your presence.

3. Respect Other Trail Users

The path is shared by pedestrians, joggers, dog walkers, and occasional skateboarders. Always announce your presence when passing—use a polite “On your left!” or a bell. Slow down when approaching groups, and never assume someone will move out of your way. Keep your speed under 12 mph in congested zones.

4. Carry Water and Snacks

There are no convenience stores or vending machines along the route. Bring at least 20 oz. of water per person, plus electrolyte tablets if riding in summer heat. Pack energy bars, fruit, or trail mix. The path is exposed in sections, and temperatures can exceed 90°F even in spring.

5. Protect Against Sun and Insects

Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen before you start. The riverbed reflects sunlight, increasing UV exposure. Wear sunglasses and a breathable hat. Mosquitoes are rare but can appear near wetland areas after rain—consider a light DEET spray or permethrin-treated clothing if you’re sensitive to bites.

6. Avoid Riding After Rain

Heavy rainfall can cause temporary flooding along low-lying sections of the path, especially near the 110th Street area. The concrete surface becomes slick, and runoff can carry debris, oil, and trash onto the trail. Wait at least 24–48 hours after rain to ride safely. Check the Los Angeles County Public Works website for trail advisories.

7. Leave No Trace

Respect the natural and cultural environment. Pack out all trash, including food wrappers and water bottles. Do not litter, even if bins are full. The river path is a symbol of urban restoration—help preserve it for future riders.

8. Know Emergency Contacts

While there is no dedicated trail patrol, the Long Beach Police Department can be reached at (562) 570-7233 for non-emergencies. For medical emergencies, dial 911. Save the number for the Los Angeles River Revitalization Corporation (310-715-0288) for trail maintenance inquiries.

Tools and Resources

1. Mapping Apps

Use these apps to navigate the path with precision:

• RideWithGPS – Offers a pre-loaded route called “Los Angeles River Path – Long Beach Segment.” Download the GPX file for offline use.
• Komoot – Highlights elevation changes, surface types, and points of interest along the route.
• Google Maps – Use “Bicycle” mode to see bike lanes and path connections. Enable “Traffic” to avoid road closures.

2. Trail Condition Updates

Check these official sources before you ride:

• Los Angeles County Public Works – River Path Status – www.publicworks.lacounty.gov
• City of Long Beach Parks and Recreation – www.longbeach.gov/parks
• Los Angeles River Revitalization Corporation – www.lariver.org

These sites post alerts for closures due to maintenance, flooding, or events like the annual Los Angeles River Clean-Up Day.

3. Bike Rentals and Repair

If you don’t own a bike, here are your best options in Long Beach:

• Long Beach Bike Share – 15 stations citywide, including one near 1st Street and Ocean. Offers hybrid and e-bikes. App-based rental: www.longbeachbike.com
• Long Beach Bicycle Center – Located at 4445 E. 7th Street. Offers rentals, repairs, and trail advice. Open 10 a.m.–6 p.m. daily.
• REI Long Beach – 12500 E. Artesia Blvd. Sells and rents bikes. Staff can recommend routes and gear.

4. Essential Gear Checklist

Before heading out, ensure you have:

• Helmet (required by California law for riders under 18, strongly recommended for all)
• Front and rear bike lights
• Water bottle and cage (2–3 bottles recommended)
• Snacks (energy bars, bananas, nuts)
• Phone with offline map and fully charged
• Mini pump or CO2 inflator + spare tube
• Multi-tool with tire levers
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat
• Light rain jacket (even if forecast is clear)
• Small first-aid kit (bandages, antiseptic wipes)

5. Community Resources

Join local cycling groups for guided rides and updates:

• LA River Bike Club – Hosts monthly group rides along the river. Meet at 7th Street Trailhead every second Saturday at 8 a.m.
• Long Beach Bicycle Coalition – Advocates for safe infrastructure and hosts educational workshops. Visit www.lbbike.org
• Instagram:

  LARiverPath – Real-time photos and tips from fellow riders.

Real Examples

Example 1: Maria, 34 – Commuter Turned Weekend Cyclist

Maria works in downtown Long Beach and used to drive 25 minutes each way. After discovering the River Path on a weekend ride with a friend, she began biking to work twice a week. “I used to hate traffic,” she says. “Now I look forward to my ride. I see egrets, hear the wind through the reeds, and feel like I’m in a different world. It’s my meditation.”

Maria rides a steel-framed hybrid with fenders and a rack. She carries a change of clothes in a waterproof bag and showers at her office. She rides the path in both directions—eastbound in the morning, westbound in the evening. “The sunrise over the river is unreal,” she adds. “I’ve taken photos of it every week for a year.”

Example 2: The Garcia Family – First-Time Family Ride

The Garcias brought their two children, ages 7 and 10, on a Sunday morning ride. They rented bikes from Long Beach Bicycle Center and used a tag-along bike attachment for their youngest. “We thought it would be boring,” says dad Carlos. “But the art installations along the path kept the kids engaged. They loved the giant mural of the river otter near 110th Street.”

The family stopped at Riverwalk Park for a picnic. They brought sandwiches, juice boxes, and a small blanket. “We didn’t go the full 12 miles—we turned around at the park. But the kids said it was the best ride ever.”

Example 3: James, 68 – Retiree Exploring His New City

James moved to Long Beach from Ohio and wanted to explore beyond the beach. He joined the LA River Bike Club and now rides the path every Wednesday. “I didn’t know LA had a river,” he laughs. “I thought it was all palm trees and freeways.”

James rides a step-through e-bike with pedal assist. He uses the assist to climb the slight grade near the 605 underpass. “It’s not about speed,” he says. “It’s about connection. I’ve met people here I wouldn’t have met anywhere else. We talk about the birds, the art, the history.”

Example 4: The Photography Crew – Capturing the River’s Transformation

A group of four local photographers met monthly to document the river’s evolution. They rode the path at golden hour, capturing the interplay of light, water, and concrete. “The river was once considered a wasteland,” says lead photographer Lena. “Now it’s a canvas. The murals, the restored wetlands, the people riding bikes—it tells a story of resilience.”

Their exhibit, “Concrete to Canopy,” opened at the Long Beach Museum of Art in 2023. One of their most popular images shows a cyclist silhouetted against a sunset behind the Heritage Park Bridge, with a heron in flight overhead.

FAQs

Is the Los Angeles River Path in Long Beach safe for solo riders?

Yes, the path is generally safe for solo riders, especially during daylight hours. It is well-traveled and monitored by nearby residential areas. Avoid riding alone after dark, as lighting is limited in some sections. Always inform someone of your route and expected return time.

Can I bring my dog on the path?

Yes, dogs are permitted on the Los Angeles River Path as long as they are on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Owners must clean up after their pets. Some sections near the wetlands have signs requesting dogs to be kept on the path to avoid disturbing wildlife.

Are there restrooms along the path?

Public restrooms are available at the 7th Street Trailhead and Long Beach Riverwalk Park. Portable toilets may be placed seasonally near the 110th Street area. Plan ahead—there are no facilities between these points.

How long does it take to bike the entire path?

Most riders complete the 12-mile route in 60 to 90 minutes at a moderate pace. With stops for photos, rest, and exploration, allow 2 to 3 hours. Beginners or families may take longer.

Is the path suitable for children?

Absolutely. The path is flat, paved, and car-free, making it ideal for children on training wheels, balance bikes, or tag-alongs. The scenic stops and public art keep kids engaged. Consider bringing snacks and extra water.

Can I ride an e-bike on the path?

Yes, Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes (pedal-assist up to 20 mph) are permitted. Class 3 e-bikes (speed-assist up to 28 mph) are discouraged due to speed conflicts with pedestrians. Always yield and use caution.

Is there a fee to use the path?

No, the Los Angeles River Path is a public right-of-way and free to use. No permits or fees are required.

What’s the best time of year to ride?

Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer the most pleasant temperatures and low humidity. Summer can be hot (90°F+), and winter brings occasional rain. Avoid July and August midday rides if you’re not acclimated to heat.

Can I connect to other bike paths from here?

Yes. From the 1st Street endpoint, you can link to the Long Beach Waterfront Bike Path, which extends 5 miles to Shoreline Village. From the 605 end, you can connect to the San Gabriel River Trail via the Los Angeles River Bike Path northbound.

What should I do if I see litter or damage on the path?

Report it to the City of Long Beach Parks and Recreation via their online portal: www.longbeach.gov/parks/report-a-problem. You can also contact the Los Angeles River Revitalization Corporation. Community reports help prioritize maintenance.

Conclusion

Biking the Los Angeles River Path in Long Beach is more than a physical journey—it’s a passage through the evolving story of Southern California’s relationship with water, infrastructure, and nature. What was once a neglected concrete ditch has become a ribbon of green, art, and community that connects neighborhoods, cultures, and generations. This path doesn’t demand speed or endurance; it invites curiosity, stillness, and observation.

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist, a curious newcomer, or a parent seeking a safe outing for your family, this route offers something profound: the quiet joy of moving through a city not as a passenger in a car, but as an active participant in its landscape. You’ll see herons glide over restored marshes, children point at murals of river otters, and elders pause to read plaques about the river’s past. You’ll realize that the Los Angeles River isn’t just a channel for water—it’s a channel for renewal.

So lace up your shoes, check your tires, and head out. Bring your water, your camera, your sense of wonder. Ride slowly. Look up. Listen. The river is speaking—and it’s been waiting for you.