Biking through Bernal Heights is one of the best ways to enjoy San Francisco’s sunny slopes, sweeping skyline views, and laid-back neighborhood vibe. Known for its calm residential streets and scenic hilltop routes, Bernal Heights is a favorite destination for cyclists in 2025. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a weekend explorer, or a casual rider, the area’s bike-friendly routes make every ride both beautiful and rewarding.
At the center of the neighborhood, Bernal Heights Park offers one of the most iconic cycling routes in San Francisco. Riders can circle Bernal Heights Boulevard, following both paved and dirt trails that deliver panoramic views of downtown and the Bay. With gentle inclines and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s a great loop for fitness rides or leisurely spins. Early mornings and sunsets are especially rewarding times to ride.
RELATED: Everything You Need to Know About Bernal Heights Park
Over near Precita Avenue and Alabama Street, this relaxed route is ideal for families and beginners. The flat, quiet streets around Precita Park are easy to navigate, making it a great place to start your cycling journey. Along the way, you can stop by one of the nearby coffee shops or bakeries that line the park for a quick break before heading out again.
Running along the northern edge of Bernal Heights, the Cesar Chavez Street bike lanes offer a safe and direct connection to the Mission District and Potrero Hill. Cyclists appreciate the dedicated lanes that separate them from car traffic, creating one of the smoothest east-west routes in the city. As a result, it’s a favorite for commuters looking for a fast, stress-free ride.
Cortland Avenue serves as both Bernal Heights’ main commercial hub and a relaxed biking route. As you ride between Bocana and Bonview Streets, you’ll pass local shops, markets, and cafés with plenty of bike racks for quick stops. This route captures the friendly, small-town charm that makes biking in Bernal Heights so enjoyable. Plus, it’s an easy way to explore the neighborhood’s heart while staying active.
RELATED: Fit Neighborhoods in San Francisco: The Bernal Heights Hike
Cyclists heading south through Bernal Heights often choose Folsom Street for its gentle downhill grade and wide lanes. Stretching from Precita Avenue toward Bayshore Boulevard, this route connects smoothly with other major San Francisco bike paths. Because of its layout and flow, it’s popular among both commuters and recreational riders.
Just off Highland Avenue, Holly Park offers a short and scenic loop that’s perfect for beginners and families. The gentle perimeter route around the park is ideal for warm-ups or easy rides. With tree-shaded views and open green spaces, it’s one of the most accessible and charming biking spots in Bernal Heights.
RELATED: Holly Park: Where Bernal Neighbors Gather
North of Bernal Heights, the Mission District provides an easy extension for longer rides. Cyclists can take Valencia Street, which features protected bike lanes and flat terrain, along with plenty of cafés for rest stops. This route makes it simple to explore beyond Bernal Heights while staying on safe, well-marked paths.
For riders craving a bit of nature, Glen Canyon Park is just a short ride west via Chenery Street or Diamond Heights Boulevard. The mild slopes, shaded paths, and scenic greenery offer a peaceful escape from city streets. It’s an ideal spot for cyclists who want a refreshing, nature-filled experience close to home.
To the south, McLaren Park invites riders looking for more space and adventure. With paved and dirt paths accessible via Mansell Street and John F. Shelley Drive, this expansive park is great for longer weekend rides. Here, cyclists can combine endurance and exploration while enjoying open landscapes and panoramic views.
Connecting Bernal Heights, Noe Valley, and the Castro, the Guerrero Street Bike Corridor is one of San Francisco’s best north-south cycling routes. Starting near Cesar Chavez Street, the wide, well-marked lanes make it a convenient and enjoyable choice for daily riders. It’s also perfect for anyone exploring multiple neighborhoods by bike.
With its sunny microclimate, bike-friendly streets, and strong community spirit, Bernal Heights remains one of San Francisco’s best neighborhoods for cycling. From peaceful park loops to challenging climbs and scenic connectors, it offers the right mix of accessibility and adventure. Whether you’re pedaling up Bernal Heights Park, cruising along Cortland Avenue, or linking to nearby neighborhoods, biking in Bernal Heights is more than a way to get around—it’s a way to experience the best of San Francisco.
Ready to explore Bernal Heights? Visit our blog for more neighborhood guides and real estate tips, check out the Bernal Heights neighborhood page for current listings, or connect with our team to start your search. As top Bernal Heights buyer and seller agents since 2002, we’d love to help you find your perfect home here.
