Local Bikepacking‑Inspired Rides
Bakersfield is one of the best places to learn the rhythm of bikepacking—long dirt stretches, quiet connectors, foothill edges, and the kind of mixed terrain that teaches you how to move through a landscape instead of just riding on top of it. These routes are built for exploration, confidence, and curiosity. They’re not “training rides.” They’re invitations.
Why These Rides Matter
Bikepacking isn’t about speed or categories. It’s about learning how to read terrain, manage effort, carry momentum, and enjoy the in‑between places. Bakersfield’s canals, orchards, and foothill corridors are perfect for that.
These rides help you build the skills that make bikepacking feel possible:
- riding mixed surfaces comfortably
- pacing yourself on long dirt stretches
- handling small climbs and chunky bits
- learning what your bike feels like loaded or unloaded
- finding joy in slow, steady exploration
They’re approachable, repeatable, and designed to grow with you.
Our Favorite Local(ish) Bikepacking Routes
Each route is chosen because it teaches something useful for bikepacking while still being fun for everyday riding.
The Southern Sierra Fat Tire Tour (SSFTT) begins in Bakersfield, California at Grizzly Cycles. While heading out of town riders will parallel the Kern River before crossing over it signifying the start of their tour. Beginning their ascent up into the Sequoia National Forest riders should take their time to notice the subtle changes in the smells and scenery of the surrounding forest.
With steep climbs, limited resupply options, and remote singletrack the SSFTT is recommended for intermediate and higher skill levels. Riders will want at least a 2.1in tire with some tread to help them navigate the included IMBA epic Cannell Trail. Plan for around 4-5 days out on the route as there is a good amount of singletrack included. Don’t forget those spare brake pads for the plunge, a 4,000 foot descent into the town of Kernville where you can enjoy a nice local brew and food from Kern River Brewing Company
The Badger Cow is a 90‑mile, 8,700‑foot mixed‑terrain bikepacking loop that starts right at Grizzly Cycles and heads straight into the Southern Sierra foothills. The route climbs steadily up Rancheria Road, trading Bakersfield’s heat and dust for cooler air, pine hints, and long views as you work your way toward the high country. From the top, the ride drops into Badger Gap—a rugged, remote corridor of dirt and rock that feels a world away from town.
At the bottom of the gap, the route meets the Kern River Trail, a classic stretch of singletrack that winds above the water with punchy climbs, narrow benches, and big Sierra character. After crossing the river, riders climb toward Cow Flat, a quiet, exposed section of dirt that rewards patience and steady pacing. From there, the loop bends back toward Bakersfield, descending through rolling foothills and open ranchland before reconnecting with the valley floor.
The Badger Cow is demanding but deeply rewarding: long climbs, remote stretches, limited resupply, and terrain that keeps you honest. It’s ideal for riders looking to build bikepacking skills close to home or for experienced riders wanting a big day (or overnight) in the Southern Sierra. Bring plenty of water, a good attitude, and legs ready for real vert—this loop earns every mile.
Terms of Use: As with each route guide published on grizzlycycles661.com, should you choose to cycle these or any routes, do so at your own risk. Prior to setting out check current local weather, conditions, and land/road closures. While riding, obey all public and private land use restrictions and rules, carry proper safety and navigational equipment, and of course, follow the #leavenotrace guidelines. The information found herein is simply a planning resource to be used as a point of inspiration in conjunction with your own due-diligence. In spite of the fact that this route, associated GPS track (GPX and maps), and all route guidelines were prepared under diligent research by the specified contributor and/or contributors, the accuracy of such and judgement of the author is not guaranteed. Grizzly Cycles, LLC, its partners, associates, and contributors are in no way liable for personal injury, damage to personal property, or any other such situation that might happen to individual riders cycling or following these route.