Riding the Desert: A Cyclist's Hidden Playground in Southern California

If you think Southern California cycling begins and ends with coastal headwinds and hillside switchbacks, it’s time to broaden your definition of “epic.” Just a couple of hours from San Diego lies the Anza–Borrego Desert, one of the most underrated road-cycling and adventure riding landscapes in California — and a perfect multi-day escape (or dialed one-day pin-release).

The Anza–Borrego Desert State Park is massive — over 600,000 acres of desert terrain, sculpted badlands, cactus forests and open roads that see surprisingly little traffic outside summer heat.

Terrain & Rides

From rolling valley loops to punchy climbs and century-type rides, there’s variety for every level.

The Borrego Springs Century offers overlapping loops of about 65 and 32 miles of desert road scenery — a great distance for experienced riders looking to push pace in a remote setting.

The Yaqui Pass is a popular loop that ranges from ~35 miles up to ~85+ miles depending on how far you push, with 1,300-plus meters of climbing — exposed desert roads and wide views that make every pedal stroke feel purposeful.

A more serious ascent - and our favorite one, the Montezuma Road has about 10.8 miles with nearly 3,500 feet of gain and sustained grades — one of the toughest climbs in San Diego County.

Important note, winter and spring riding here is real, with manageable cool daytime temperatures — perfect for long miles before the heat sets in.

Off the Saddle

When you’re off the saddle, Anza–Borrego rewards with its beautiful trails, badlands lookouts and washes from roadside pull-offs to short treks into subtle canyons, and also with a very unique wildflower blooming season (late winter–early spring) when after a rainy winter, the desert explodes with color.

Borrego Springs

The city of Borrego Springs may be small, but it’s built for visitors who want a few days of relaxed desert life. There are lodging options from cozy inns to desert spas. Food is great, from small coffe and breakfast stops, to hearty meals, ideal for a family stop or after a big ride. Actually, many riders make it a ritual to find the best after-ride burger or breakfast burrito.

When driving from or to Borrego Springs, you need to stop for a minute in Julian - a historic mountain town known for its apple orchards, charming shops and legendary apple pie. It’s a must-go before or after you take on the desert roads. The kind of treat that turns a good cycling weekend into a great one.

Before you Go

Riding in the desert is extraordinary — but with heat, remoteness and distance, preparation matters. That’s where 7sherpas steps in.

When riding the desert, even for a single day, you will need a support vehicle and experienced people who know every single road. With support dialed in, you can focus on the joy of riding — whether it’s a hard one-day 70-mile adventure or a long weekend exploring scenery.

“Ridiculously beautiful and so different from anywhere else in SoCal.” Guides kept us fueled and safe; we even had time for Julian apple pie after. — Chris T.

“Best training weekend ever.”The sunrise ride in Borrego is just surreal. — Laura G.

“Desert roads, big views, zero regrets.” The desert climbs were the highlight, and the guides took us into hidden canyons I would have never discovered on my own. — Derek W.

The Anza–Borrego Desert is a landscape that rewards explorers. It’s raw, expansive and endlessly scenic — a place where a dayride feels like a true adventure and a weekend trip becomes a desert story you’ll tell again.

Whether you’re chasing big mileage, challenging climbs, wildflowers or classic desert culture, we create the framework so you pedal, explore and savor every moment.