Biking the Best of Livermore Valley

A perfect day is just a bike ride away in Livermore Valley. From wine pours and beer tastings to BMX courses to sandy beaches, it all goes down smooth on two wheels with this 13-mile hidden gem of a loop through Livermore and Pleasanton.

From the parking lot at The Shops At Livermore, head west on Stoneridge Drive, then turn left on Guzman Parkway to visit Amaral Park. This kid-friendly stop has a playground, gardens, and picnic areas. Continue south through the park to hop on the Martin Avenue bike trail, which passes by a series of sapphire-blue ponds, home to herons and egrets.

Turn right onto Mohr Avenue, a beautiful neighborhood teeming with flower gardens and native plants. At the intersection with the Iron Horse Trail, turn left to ride the paved bike trail to Valley Avenue, then turn left onto Stanley Avenue.

After 0.3 mile, turn right into Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area to visit the BMX park. Daredevils can test their skills on the dirt course before continuing down the Levee Trail until it reaches the main picnic area. Enjoy a lakeside lunch, take a dip in the cool water, or make use of the barbecue pits. (This is also a great spot to use the restrooms and fill up water bottles.)

Afterwards, follow South Arroyo Trail south to Park Access Road and turn left onto Vineyard Avenue. Soak up the sights of mighty Mount Diablo to the north, and feel free to stop at Rubino Estates Winery or Ruby Hill Winery for a sip of local vino.

At the intersection with Isabel Avenue, cross the street to turn north onto the paved bike path. After 3 miles, turn left onto West Jack London Boulevard, where the bike path continues past the airport. Keep an eye out for old-fashioned biplanes looping through the skies. Follow the trail until it leads back to The Shops At Livermore.

BEER BONUS: Thirsty after a long ride? Head to the northeast corner of the plaza to visit Dust Bowl Brewing Co. This beer garden features over 30 local brews, many with summery fruit infusions. (Heather recommends the Peach, Love, and Haze on a toasty day.) Enjoy a round of corn hole, grab a bite from the Hazy Barbecue food truck, or sip a pint around the fire pit.

The Shops At Livermore is located at 3020 W. Jack London Blvd. in Livermore. From I-580, exit onto El Charro Rd., then turn left onto W. Jack London Blvd. Turn right into the parking lot. This route includes bike lanes, paved bike paths, and dirt/gravel bike trails. A mountain, gravel, or hybrid bicycle is recommended.

Story and photos by Heather Werner, @heath.er.wer.ner