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Teen Treks - Bike Trips

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California Coast Bike Tour

Starts: San Francisco, CA

Ends: Los Angeles, CA

California Coast Bike Tour

  • 4,595
  • 18 Days
  • 30-50 Miles per Day
  • Grade 10-12
  • Moderate

Tour 1: June 24 – July 11
Tour 2: July 8 – July 25

Teen Tour: Bikepacking from San Francisco to Los Angeles

Pedal into an unforgettable 18-day journey along California’s iconic Pacific Coast Highway. From the vibrant streets of San Francisco to the sun-kissed beaches of Los Angeles, this trek offers a perfect blend of challenging rides, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural exploration. Experience the thrill of cycling through diverse terrains, from rugged cliffs to serene coastal towns, all while forging lasting friendships and memories.​
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Teen Tour: Bikepacking from San Francisco to Los Angeles

Pedal into an unforgettable 18-day journey along California’s iconic Pacific Coast Highway. From the vibrant streets of San Francisco to the sun-kissed beaches of Los Angeles, this trek offers a perfect blend of challenging rides, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural exploration. Experience the thrill of cycling through diverse terrains, from rugged cliffs to serene coastal towns, all while forging lasting friendships and memories.​

california coast bike tour map

Start Your Summer Bike Tour

Tour Highlights at a Glance

Golden Gate Bridge

Begin your adventure by cycling across this world-renowned landmark.

Big Sur

Navigate the dramatic coastline with its towering cliffs and panoramic ocean views.

Santa Barbara

Relax in this charming coastal city known for its Mediterranean-style architecture and beaches.

Santa Monica

Experience the lively atmosphere of the famous pier and beachfront.

Who Is This Teen Travel Program For

High School Students

Eager to embrace adventure and challenge.

Enthusiastic Cyclists

Comfortable with moderate daily rides and varying terrains.

Nature Enthusiasts

Interested in experiencing California’s diverse landscapes and vibrant cities.

Team Players

Ready to build lasting friendships and work collaboratively in a group setting.
california trek road
bicyclists on california beach
bike tourists under a california overpass on ocean

Daily Itinerary & Map

What You’ll Experience Each Day on This Teen Tour

Please Note: Full detailed itineraries are only available to cyclists and their parents/guardians.

bicyclists near golden gate bridge

San Francisco

Depart from San Francisco, cycling through the scenic Monterey Peninsula.

Bixby Creek Bridge in Big Sur

Big Sur

Traverse the rugged beauty of Big Sur, with its awe-inspiring coastal vistas.

morro rock in california

San Luis Obispo

Explore the charming towns of San Luis Obispo and Pismo Beach.

road on the coast of santa barbara

Santa Barbara

Ride through the picturesque landscapes leading to Santa Barbara.

teen cyclists on beach swimming

Ventura & Malibu

Continue along the coast, visiting Ventura and Malibu.

Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles

Los Angeles

Arrive in Los Angeles, celebrating the completion of your journey with group activities and exploration.

Cultural & Regional Highlights

  • San Francisco:

    Discover the city's rich history, diverse neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks.

  • Big Sur:

    Experience the unparalleled natural beauty of this rugged coastline.

  • Santa Barbara:

    Enjoy the blend of Spanish colonial heritage and modern coastal charm.

  • Los Angeles:

    Immerse yourself in the entertainment capital, with visits to renowned sites and cultural hotspots.

picking food in a farmer market
lighthouse in downtown santa barbara

Questions?

We're Here to Help You

Contact Us

The Inclusive Value of Every Teen Treks Journey

At TeenTreks, we believe in transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Your payment covers all aspects of the journey, ensuring a hassle-free summer adventure. Additionally, as a not-for-profit organization, 100% of trip profits are reinvested into supporting youth outdoor programs.

– Cliff Madell, Founder

What’s Included In the Trek?

This experience combines the structure of traditional summer camps for teens with the freedom of a cross-country bikepacking journey.

  • Equipment: High quality group camping, cooking and safety gear.
  • Accomodations: Campsite fees and select hostel stays.
  • Meals: All 54 meals and daily snacks during the trek.
  • Support: Experienced trek leaders.
  • Activities: Admissions to national parks and scheduled excursions.
collage of a bicycle, teenagers eating lunch, and a camp site
teen bicyclist taking a selfie

Safety, Supervision & Peace of Mind

  • 20+ Years

    Zero Major Safety Incidents

  • Experienced, Trained Trek Leaders

    Every leader is CPR/First Aid certified, highly trained in road safety, and selected for their maturity, energy, and care for teens.

  • Daily Safety Checks

    Bikes are inspected daily, safety briefings are held each morning and bike-safety managers are assigned daily.

  • Small Group Sizes

    We keep our groups intentionally small for personalized attention and stronger supervision.

  • Detailed Itinerary Shared Privately

    The full, day-by-day itinerary is shared only with trekkers and their parents or guardians for safety and privacy.

  • Daily Check-Ins

    Trekkers report a daily blog of the day's highlights to be shared with families, leaders report to office daily, office staff are available for updates anytime.

Teen Tour on California’s Most Iconic Coastline

This teen tour follows one of the most recognizable routes in the world, where every stretch of road reveals a new view of the Pacific. The experience is shaped by constant movement, dramatic scenery, and a growing sense of accomplishment.

  • Riders follow the Pacific Coast Highway, where cliffs, ocean views, and winding roads create a dynamic and unforgettable setting.
  • The route blends challenging rides with moments to pause, take in the scenery, and connect with the group.
  • As one of the more ambitious summer trips for teens, the journey builds steadily from start to finish.

From San Francisco to Big Sur

The early portion of the route sets the tone, combining iconic landmarks with some of the most visually striking riding in the country.

  • Teens begin by crossing the Golden Gate Bridge, immediately stepping into the rhythm of travel for teens through movement and discovery.
  • The ride south introduces coastal towns and open stretches of highway, where the ocean becomes a constant presence.
  • Big Sur marks a defining moment, with steep climbs, sweeping curves, and panoramic views that reward every mile.

California’s Central Coast

This teen travel program continues through a series of distinct regions, each offering its own pace and atmosphere.

  • The Central Coast brings a shift toward rolling terrain, agricultural landscapes, and towns like San Luis Obispo and Pismo Beach.
  • Moving into Santa Barbara, the environment becomes more relaxed, with Mediterranean-style architecture and coastal access.
  • The final stretch through Ventura and Malibu builds anticipation, leading into the energy and scale of Los Angeles.

 

Confidence and Life Skills

For many teens, this is the first time they have been away from home for several weeks and faced such a clear personal challenge. The combination of distance, responsibility, and support creates powerful opportunities for personal growth that go far beyond cycling. 

  • Teens learn to manage their own gear, clothing, and daily routines, from packing in the morning to setting up tents and helping prepare meals at night.
  • Riding in varied terrain teaches pacing, perseverance, and thoughtful decision-making. They learn when to push, when to fuel up, and when to ask for coaching or support from leaders.
  • Shared challenges - headwinds, hills, or early wake-ups - become inside jokes and stories that riders bring back to school, future applications, or gap-year planning.

Reassuring Parents and Guardians

While riders focus on the next hill or the next viewpoint, parents and guardians prioritize structure, supervision, and safety. Our Portland-to-San Francisco route is designed for high school students, with experienced leaders, clear communication systems, and thoughtful pacing that acknowledges both teen enthusiasm and real-world limits.

  • Leaders receive training in road safety, first aid, group dynamics, and youth mentorship, combining the professionalism of established travel companies with a mission-driven focus on teens.
  • Group sizes are intentionally kept small so leaders can ride with participants, coach bike-handling skills, and respond quickly to changing conditions on the road or at camp.
  • Families benefit from transparent pricing and detailed pre-trip guidance, making it easier to plan, pack appropriately, and understand what each day on the road is likely to feel like for their teen.

How challenging is the California Coast route?

This is one of the more physically demanding teen tours, best suited for teens comfortable with sustained riding and varied terrain.

What makes Big Sur such a key part of the experience?

Big Sur offers some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in the country, combining elevation, ocean views, and a true sense of adventure.

Is this considered a bikepacking-style trip?

Yes, this experience reflects core elements of bikepacking, with multi-day riding, outdoor living, and a strong sense of progression along the route.

A Journey Defined by Distance and View

Traveling California’s coastline by bike creates a connection to the landscape that’s impossible to replicate any other way. Each mile builds toward something bigger.

Teens experience the full transition from Northern California’s rugged coast to Southern California’s beaches and cities.

The length and variety of the route create a layered experience, where no two days feel the same.

By the time they reach Los Angeles, teens carry a lasting sense of accomplishment and a deeper confidence in what they can achieve.

Book a Teen Treks Bike Trip in California

Contact our friendly team today to learn more and reserve a place for your teen.

Book Your Teen's Trip Today

Pricing, Dates & Availability

Cost: $4,495 / person

For 18 Days

Other bike tours charge the same price for just 6 days. Teen Treks gives you 18 days of adventure, learning, and lifelong memories – over 3x the value!

  • Early booking is recommended to secure your place.
  • 18 Days
  • 700+ miles
  • 54 Meals
  • 6 hostel/hotel overnights
  • 1:5 leader to trekker ratio
  • 10+ swimming opportunities
  • Countless ice cream stops
  • Tour Dates:
  • June 24 - July 11
  • July 8 - July 25
Alex
Trekker

"Cycling down the California coast was the highlight of my summer. The views were breathtaking, and I made friends I'll never forget."

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Your Leader

Get To Know Our Leaders

At Teen Treks, our bike trip leaders are passionate, experienced individuals who are committed to providing a safe and enriching experience for every teen. With backgrounds in outdoor education, cycling, and youth mentorship, they’re more than just guides—they’re mentors who foster teamwork, resilience, and personal growth. Through careful training in safety, first aid, and group dynamics, our leaders ensure every trip is both fun and supportive. They inspire teens to challenge themselves, build new friendships, and develop a lifelong love for adventure, making each bike tour a unique and unforgettable journey.

Learn More
teen bike tour photo on a giant chair
California Coast Trek

Dates & Pricing for California Coast Trek

Book now before we sell out. Start by clicking on your preferred date for more info and to reserve your trip.

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Tour Specific FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About This Tour

What Makes the California Coast Bike Tour So Unique for Teens?

This teen tour follows the legendary Pacific Coast Highway, giving teens a front-row seat to one of the most iconic routes in the world. From crossing the Golden Gate Bridge to riding through Big Sur’s dramatic cliffs, every day feels visually unforgettable. The journey combines true bikepacking progression with major cultural milestones, ending in Los Angeles.

How Physically Demanding Is This Bike Trip?

This is one of the more challenging teen tours, with sustained riding and varied terrain throughout the 18 days. Teens encounter climbs, long coastal stretches, and changing conditions that require endurance and focus. The pacing builds over time, helping riders adapt and grow stronger as the journey unfolds.

What Types of Landscapes Do Teens Ride Through?

Riders move through a wide range of environments, from San Francisco’s urban streets to Big Sur’s rugged cliffs and the Central Coast’s rolling farmland. The route continues through beach towns, coastal valleys, and scenic highways with constant ocean views. By the final days, the landscape shifts into Southern California’s iconic beaches and cityscapes.

How Do Teens Handle Being Away From Home for So Long?

The structure of this teen travel program helps teens quickly find a rhythm through daily riding, shared responsibilities, and group support. Small groups and experienced leaders create a strong sense of connection, making the experience feel both social and supportive. As the miles add up, teens build confidence through independence and accomplishment.

What Happens on Rest Days or in Major Cities?

Time off the bike is built into key stops like San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles. Teens explore coastal towns, relax at the beach, and enjoy group activities that break up the ride. These moments provide recovery while keeping the experience engaging and memorable.

Is This Trip Safe for Teens Over Such a Long Distance?

Safety is a top priority, with daily bike inspections, structured riding protocols, and trained leaders riding alongside the group. Small group sizes allow for close supervision and real-time support on changing terrain. Families also receive consistent updates, providing reassurance throughout the trip.

Who Is the Ideal Fit for the California Coast Bike Tour?

This trip is best for high school students who are excited by challenge and ready for a more ambitious bikepacking experience. It suits teens who enjoy long rides, changing terrain, and the reward of reaching a major destination. Riders who want both physical challenge and iconic scenery will thrive on this route.

How Should Teens Prepare Physically for a Longer Trip?

Teens should prepare with regular rides that build endurance, especially on back-to-back days with some elevation. Practicing longer distances helps them feel comfortable with the sustained effort required on this route. Arriving with a solid base allows them to fully enjoy the progression from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

General Tour FAQs

More About Our Teen Travel Program

Where do we sleep?

Teen Treks groups stay in hostels, hotels, and campgrounds. Wherever you go, you’ll get to know the place. In a major city, you’ll likely get to stay in a hostel right in the downtown area, steps from major tourist attractions and plenty of great restaurants. In the North American or European countryside, you’ll often camp out in beautiful settings, or stay in a hostel that’s part of a historic landmark. Our Lake Ontario Trek, for example, stays at the 1800s-era Tibbets Point Lighthouse hostel.

What are the trip leaders like?

Each group gets two leaders, who will be fun, resourceful adults who love hanging out with kids and who know bikes. Many took cross-country bike trips as teenagers like the ones they’re now leading, and they all complete a comprehensive leader training program and get CPR and First Aid certification. They’re teachers, human service professionals, travel and hospitality professionals, graduate students and college seniors. Some are avid cyclists and travel enthusiasts, while others have served in organizations like Americorps. Their average age is 25 years old.

What makes Teen Treks different?

Teen Treks gives teenagers the chance to discover the excitement and fun of bike touring with a bunch of like-minded people, seeing beautiful natural landscapes and world-class cities while gaining independence and travel skills. You’ll have great experiences out on the road and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Teens who take our trips get a lot of say in what the group does each day, from planning the details of the route to picking out what’s for dinner. If everyone wants to bike hard and get to the beach faster, you can do that. If you want to spend a little more time taking pictures at a breathtaking waterfall or a picturesque waterfront, you can do that. We give our trip leaders lists of activities and interesting sites along the route, but the group has the freedom to follow their preferences – every summer, our trekkers find things to do we didn’t know about, and we add them to our lists for next year.

Teen Treks offers by far the best value in truly extraordinary bike trips for teenagers. Over our history, we’ve run outstanding trips up and down the New England Shore from New York to Montreal, in the Pacific Northwest, and along the California Coast all the way Across America, and through the best sites in Europe. Check out our testimonials and compare our prices to other organizations’. Our trips, our experience, and our rates can’t be beat.

What do we eat?

Your leaders will make sure there’s plenty of food for everyone, and that it’s tasty as well as good for you. Breakfast will be quick but satisfying – hot oatmeal or cereal, for example – and lunch will keep you going with a variety of fruits, vegetables, and sandwiches. For dinner, you may go to a local restaurant or make something hot together, like pasta, flatbread pizzas, or fajitas.

Our trips readily accommodate those with special dietary requirements, and we’re very conscious of food allergies – just let us know what you need.

What kind of bike should I bring?

We recommend using a touring bike, a road bike, or a hybrid with at least 15 speeds; 15-27 is ideal. If you need to buy a bike, you should be able to get one that will work great for touring for $400-$1000. Teen Treks does not allow participants to use high-performance racing bikes, dirt bikes, fixed-gear bikes, or Dutch-style roadsters.

Your bike should have a set of new tires at the time your trip starts.

Please call or email us if you’d like to talk bike choices.

Who goes on a typical Teen Trek?

Our groups include up to 10 teens, led by 2 outstanding leaders. We try to keep the gender balance even, half boys and half girls, and we group teens by age to create a positive, cohesive social environment.

Some of our trips, like the European Phantom and Pacific Northwest Treks, are designed for older teens, where others, like the Niagara-Toronto trek, cater to a younger age group. When a route will work well for kids across a range of ages, we run several trips, one for each age group. Check out our Trips Table to see what trips we have for your age.

Teens who travel with us have come from all 50 states, Canada, Europe and Asia.

How will I keep in touch with home?

You’ll be able to call home for short chats using the leader’s cell phones every 6-7 days. We provide parents with a trip itinerary and we post regular updates on our blog to show off the adventures our trekkers are having. In addition, leaders touch base with the Teen Treks office daily, so parents can contact us for information as the trip progresses.

What happens on rainy days?

If it’s only raining lightly, the trip will carry on as planned. Heavy rains or thunderstorms are usually short-lived, so your group will sit out the storm in a coffee shop, at a store, or in some other sheltered location, and continue on your way once it passes.

California Coast Bike Tour is now open for booking.
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