Southern California wildfires impact cyclists: Ride along the coast until the smoke clears

The recent wildfires scorching Southern California have now destroyed over 140,000 acres of the Angeles National Forest. Dedicated firefighters are working diligently around the clock to save structures threatened by the flames. Full containment of the various fires isn’t expected until next week. Unfortunately, this means that the smoky air and ash currently settling down over the city won’t blow out until after next week. Participating in outdoor activities, including cycling, is unsafe for those with breathing conditions and unwise of any athlete to consider. It is best to avoid exercising outside entirely, unless you can travel to an area unaffected by the smoke.

• Click here for photos of the route along Pacific Coast Highway

A perfect place to ride that is not too far from the city is Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) from the northern end of Malibu to Ventura and back. The route, mostly along the ocean, offers cool breezes and a respite from the stifling city heat we’ve been experiencing of late. I’ve provided a MapMyRide.com route, beginning at Neptune’s Net on PCH with a turnaround point in Ventura, totaling 55 miles. Both northbound and southbound lanes of PCH heading north from Neptune’s Net are quieter than the section of PCH located in the heart of Malibu. Most beach goers stay south, although you will still need to be on the lookout for sudden car doors and wayward surfboards. The bike lane is quite wide heading northbound on PCH, and the views are spectacular heading southbound.

The route is mostly flat as you head up the coast and slightly inland, riding through the farmland area of Port Heuneme and Oxnard. Hueneme Road (East to West) has been recently repaved for most of its length, providing cyclists with a blissfully smooth ride into Port Hueneme and past the Ventura Harbor Village, where you can may wish to stop for lunch at one of the many seafood eateries along the water.

Another great place to have lunch or to just grab a cold drink is Meridians on Harbor Blvd., where the turnaround point has been mapped. It is a favorite among the Ventura locals and offers several pasta dishes and pizzas – perfect fuel for a long ride. There are many gas stations, small markets and parks along this route where you can stop for breaks or to fill your water bottles.

Please ride single file on these public roads and take extra caution when in downtown Ventura as it can get busy on the weekend. For safety, it is best to ride with a partner or group and to have identification on you (I recommend both RoadID and YikesID).

Enjoy!