Bellflower Bike Trail

Bellflower Bike Trail

The Bellflower Pedestrian and Bicycle Trail (signed: Bellflower Bike Trail) is a new 2.3 mile blacktop multipurpose rail trail, which was dedicated in November 2009. It follows the Right of Way of the old Pacific Electric Railway (the Red Cars) across Bellflower. At its zenith in 1925, the PER had over a thousand miles of interurban track in Southern California. The old rails are still there along the trail in many places.

The trail begins at the Ruth R. Caruthers Park and Bellflower Skate Park on the banks of the San Gabriel River. It ends on Lakewood Blvd. at Paseo St. at the border of the City of Paramount. The Right of Way continues across Paramount to be lost at the 105 Freeway on the far side of the L. A. River. The other end continues 16 miles beyond Caruthers Park to end in Santa Ana. Across the river and accessible via a bridge at the park is the 38 mile long San Gabriel River Trail.

The trail has two five foot striped bike lanes and a four foot pedestrian lane. These are separated by a small strip of decomposed granite. The street crossings are on-grade cross at the light crossings. Streets in the area are busy so make sure to cross at the controlled intersections. The trail is well signed and well lighted with attractive street lights the length of the trail. The Depot on Bellflower Blvd. is a must see period piece with restrooms in the baggage shed. There is free parking in the adjacent city lot (2 hour limit).

Top 3 Adventure Hacks for Bellflower Bike Trail

To have the best possible time on the Bellflower Bike Trail in California, consider these top three tips:

Plan Ahead

Before hitting the trail, take some time to plan your trip. Research the trail’s length, difficulty level, and amenities available along the route. Familiarize yourself with the starting and ending points, as well as any access points or rest areas. Ensure your bike is in good condition, and bring essential supplies like water, snacks, a map or GPS device, sunscreen, and a first aid kit. Planning ahead will help you have a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Respect Trail Etiquette

When biking on the Bellflower Bike Trail, it’s essential to follow trail etiquette to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all users. Keep to the right side of the trail and pass on the left, using audible signals like a bell or calling out “on your left” to alert others. Be aware of and yield to pedestrians, and reduce your speed when passing them. Respect posted speed limits and be cautious around blind corners. Additionally, avoid littering and leave no trace, so the trail remains beautiful and clean for everyone.

Enjoy the Surroundings

The Bellflower Bike Trail offers a chance to experience the natural beauty of California. Take the time to enjoy the surroundings and soak in the scenery along the way. There might be parks, gardens, or points of interest nearby, so consider making a stop to explore and appreciate the local attractions. Don’t forget to capture some memorable moments with your camera but remember to be safe while taking photos and never obstruct the trail.

By following these tips, you can have a fantastic and safe experience on the Bellflower Bike Trail, making the most of your time while enjoying the scenic beauty California has to offer.