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Santa Cruz County

San Lorenzo Valley Water District

The best road cycling routes in San Lorenzo Valley Water District

4.8

(5)

384

riders

12

rides

Road cycling in San Lorenzo Valley Water District offers diverse terrain within the Santa Cruz Mountains, characterized by redwood forests and scenic river valleys. The region features winding roads that traverse lush landscapes and follow the San Lorenzo River. Cyclists encounter varied elevation changes, from shaded riverside paths to challenging mountain climbs, providing options for different skill levels.

Best road cycling routes in San Lorenzo Valley Water District

  • The most popular road cycling route is Roadbike loop from Forest Springs…

Last updated: September 28, 2026

5.0

(1)

48

riders

#1.

Big Basin Redwood State Park – Summit of Sanborn County Park loop from Boulder Creek

72.1km

03:57

1,460m

1,460m

Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

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Hard

6

riders

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Moderate
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Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Hard

Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Hard

Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Hard
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Popular around San Lorenzo Valley Water District

Hiking in San Lorenzo Valley Water District

Cycling in San Lorenzo Valley Water District

Running Trails in San Lorenzo Valley Water District

MTB Trails in San Lorenzo Valley Water District

Gravel biking in San Lorenzo Valley Water District

Tips from the Community

David B. Davis
August 30, 2025, Wilder Ranch Bike Path

What's special about this path is that it takes you from Santa Cruz to the Wilder Ranch Park without using Route 1. Once there, you have multiple dirt path choices to ride around up into the park.

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Northern entrance to the coastal park from Delaware Ave. The trailhead is pedestrian and biker only, The former road goes straight to the beach, while smaller trails turn east into the Monarch Butterfly Natural Preserve, and West into the upper portions of the State Beach Park.

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Redwood trees are some of the tallest and oldest living organisms on Earth. Towering up to 350 feet, these majestic trees can live for over 2,000 years. Found primarily along the coast of Northern California, redwoods thrive in the cool, foggy climate. Their thick, reddish bark provides protection from fire and insects, making them incredibly resilient. Walking among these giants is a humbling experience, with their sheer size and age creating an awe-inspiring atmosphere.

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Big Basin Redwoods State Park has reopened for limited day use following the 2020 CZU Lightning Complex Fire. Visitors can explore trails like Redwood Loop and Meteor Trail, where resilient redwoods stand alongside new growth. Parking is $6 per vehicle with a $2 reservation fee or $10 without reservations. Rancho del Oso, the park’s coastal area, requires no reservations or fees. Dogs, horses, and mountain bikes are welcome in designated areas, while drones are prohibited. Road biking is allowed on all roads.

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From this trailhead, you can access almost 20 miles of trails winding through second-growth redwood and Douglas fir forests. The trails are open for daytime use only, with parking available along Felton Empire Road, just off Highway 9.

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The Peak is a 3,005-foot mountain in Santa Clara County. The high point is marked by a large mossy rock, a short distance away from the end of the trail. This is a great, challenging summit for any mountain biker.

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Felton Covered Bridge Park is a small city park and home to the Felton Covered Bridge, which is the tallest covered bridge in the United States. The bridge is a California Historical Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Additionally, the park offers a playground, sand volleyball court, picnic area, and access to the San Lorenzo River.

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AaronLavanchy
February 13, 2024, Boulder Creek

Boulder Creek sits just below the Santa Cruz Mountains and is the gateway to Big Basin Redwoods State Park. The downtown area offers bars and restaurants that occupy buildings dating back to the early 1900s.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many road cycling routes are available in the San Lorenzo Valley Water District?

There are over 15 road cycling routes available in the San Lorenzo Valley Water District on komoot. These routes offer a diverse range of experiences, from moderate loops to challenging mountain climbs.

What is the difficulty range of road cycling routes in the San Lorenzo Valley Water District?

The San Lorenzo Valley Water District offers a variety of road cycling routes catering to different skill levels. You'll find 1 easy route, 9 moderate routes, and 8 difficult routes, ensuring options for both casual riders and experienced cyclists seeking a challenge.

Are there routes suitable for beginners or less experienced cyclists?

Yes, while many routes feature varied terrain, there is at least one easy route available. Additionally, some sections of routes like the Henry Cowell Pipeline Road Trail offer initial flat sections along the San Lorenzo River that are suitable for beginners. For a very accessible experience, the San Lorenzo Riverwalk in nearby Santa Cruz provides a flat, paved path.

What kind of scenery can I expect on road cycling routes in the San Lorenzo Valley?

Road cycling in the San Lorenzo Valley Water District offers stunning scenery, primarily characterized by towering redwood forests, lush river valleys, and the winding San Lorenzo River. Routes often traverse through these natural landscapes, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop for your ride.

Are there any notable landmarks or attractions to see along the routes?

While cycling, you can expect to pass through areas rich in natural beauty. The region is home to redwood forests, and you might encounter historical sites like the Felton Covered Bridge. Some routes may also offer views towards the coast or pass near attractions like Roaring Camp Railroads, providing scenic stops during your ride.

Can I find routes that pass through redwood forests?

Absolutely. The towering redwood forests are a defining feature of the San Lorenzo Valley. Many routes, such as the Big Basin Redwood State Park loop from Big Basin Way & Hilton Drive, wind through these majestic groves, offering shaded and scenic rides, especially pleasant during warmer months.

What is the best time of year for road cycling in the San Lorenzo Valley?

The San Lorenzo Valley offers pleasant cycling conditions for much of the year. The redwood forests provide natural shade, which can be particularly appealing during warmer months. Spring and fall generally offer mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, though the region's lushness makes it attractive year-round.

Are there loop road cycling routes available?

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in the San Lorenzo Valley Water District are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Roadbike loop from Forest Springs and the Felton – Boulder Creek loop from Boulder Creek, providing convenient options for your ride.

Where can I park when going road cycling in the San Lorenzo Valley?

Parking availability varies by starting point. Many routes begin near towns like Felton, Ben Lomond, or Boulder Creek, where public parking may be available. For routes accessing state parks or specific trailheads, designated parking lots are typically provided. It's advisable to check specific route details for parking recommendations.

Are there any cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the routes?

Yes, the towns within the San Lorenzo Valley, such as Felton, Ben Lomond, and Boulder Creek, offer various cafes and eateries where you can stop for refreshments. Routes that pass through or near these communities provide convenient opportunities to refuel during your ride.

What do other road cyclists enjoy the most about road cycling in the San Lorenzo Valley Water District?

The San Lorenzo Valley Water District is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from 6 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, the stunning redwood forests, and the scenic river valleys that make for a memorable riding experience. The variety of routes, from moderate to difficult, is also frequently appreciated.

Are there challenging routes for experienced road cyclists?

Definitely. The Santa Cruz Mountains terrain provides ample challenge for experienced road cyclists. Routes like the Shark Fin Cove Beach – Santa Cruz Boardwalk loop from Felton Roaring Camp and the Felton – Boulder Creek loop from Boulder Creek feature significant elevation gains and longer distances, perfect for those seeking a demanding ride.

Most popular routes in San Lorenzo Valley Water District

Hiking in San Lorenzo Valley Water District

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