The best road cycling routes in Monte Bello Open Space Preserve
4.5
(59)
1,673
riders
48
rides
Road cycling routes in Monte Bello Open Space Preserve traverse a diverse landscape of rolling grasslands, dense creekside forests, and expansive vistas. The preserve spans over 3,400 acres, encompassing the upper Stevens Creek watershed and offering significant elevation changes. Cyclists encounter varied terrain, from cool forests along Stevens Creek Canyon to open areas with views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and the San Francisco Bay. This region provides a range of road cycling experiences, from challenging climbs to exhilarating descents.
…Last updated: May 5, 2026
12
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4.5
(2)
157
riders
92.0km
05:05
1,830m
1,830m
Tackle the difficult Alpine Road Loop, a 57.2-mile road cycling route with 6013 feet of elevation gain and stunning mountain views.
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46
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
20
riders
23.9km
01:14
210m
210m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5.0
(1)
90
riders
109km
05:56
2,280m
2,280m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
The Northern part of Alpine Road is a paved and curvy descent through wooded areas and runs parallel to Coal Mine Ridge Preserve, eventually connecting with the trailhead there.
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This mostly paved bike trail alongside Alpine Road is great for bike commuting — just don't run over any slower trail users! The trail runs all the way from Portola Valley to Stanford, offering some nice shade along the way. The brief moments of unpaved trail are near the Portola Valley end.
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Great paved road that takes you through Picchetti Ranch Open Space Preserve. On clear days, there are great views of the Cupertino valley and the San Francisco Bay.
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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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Stevens Creek Reservoir spans 87 acres and is surrounded by a 1,063-acre park. Visitors can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, and limited fishing. Seasonal boating for low-power boats is available from mid-April to mid-October. The park is open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset, with vehicle entry fees collected year-round at the Chestnut Parking Lot. Visitors can explore natural beauty and historic remnants like the Villa Maria orchard.
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This winding side road is very lightly trafficked and carries you between Stanford and the Palo Alto hills with partial shade the entire way. On the east side of the road you will find Frenchman's Tower, and old brick landmark.
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Charming bridge crossing Seven's Creek Boulevard at the north end of Creekside Park. Nearby, you’ll find the historic Stocklmeir Farmhouse in Blackberry Farm Park.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available in Monte Bello Open Space Preserve?
Monte Bello Open Space Preserve offers over 40 road cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy, moderate, and challenging options to explore the diverse landscape.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Monte Bello Open Space Preserve?
The preserve features a diverse landscape, from rolling grasslands and dense creekside forests to areas with significant elevation changes. Cyclists can expect challenging climbs and exhilarating descents, with varied scenery including cool forests along Stevens Creek Canyon and open areas offering expansive views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and the San Francisco Bay.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners in Monte Bello Open Space Preserve?
Yes, there are 17 easy road cycling routes available in Monte Bello Open Space Preserve. These routes offer a gentler introduction to the preserve's beautiful scenery, allowing beginners to enjoy the ride without overly strenuous climbs.
Are there challenging road cycling routes for experienced cyclists in the preserve?
Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, there are 4 difficult road cycling routes. These often involve significant elevation gains and longer distances, such as the Alpine Road Loop, which covers over 90 km with substantial climbing.
What scenic viewpoints or landmarks can I see along the road cycling routes?
Many routes offer stunning views. Reaching the top of Black Mountain provides incredible panoramic views of the Santa Clara Valley, the Mt. Hamilton Range, and on clear days, the San Francisco Bay. The Stevens Creek Nature Trail also offers a dramatic vista point overlooking Stevens Creek Canyon.
What is the best time of year to go road cycling in Monte Bello Open Space Preserve?
The preserve is beautiful year-round, but spring is particularly vibrant when the grasslands burst with wildflowers like California poppy and lupine. Autumn offers a stunning display of foliage from bigleaf maples and deciduous oaks. Clear days provide the best panoramic views from higher elevations.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about Monte Bello Open Space Preserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 60 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from cool forests to open vistas, and the challenging climbs that lead to rewarding panoramic views, especially from spots like Black Mountain.
Are there any specific rules or regulations for road cyclists in Monte Bello Open Space Preserve?
Yes, cyclists are required to wear helmets for safety. A speed limit of 15 mph is enforced, which reduces to 5 mph when passing other trail users. It's also important to note that e-bikes are generally not allowed on most trails within the preserve. The preserve is open from a half-hour before sunrise until a half-hour after sunset.
Are there any loop options for road cycling in the preserve?
Yes, many routes offer loop options. For example, the Alpine Road – Dwight Crowder Path loop from La Honda is a popular choice, offering a moderate climb through varied terrain. Another is the Black Mountain – Montebello Road loop from Picchetti Ranch Open Space Preserve, which leads through forested areas with significant elevation gain.
Does Monte Bello Open Space Preserve connect to other cycling areas?
Yes, Monte Bello is strategically located and connects to other open space preserves such as Skyline Ridge, Los Trancos, and Rancho San Antonio. This allows for the creation of extensive and varied long-distance cycling routes, offering opportunities for longer rides and multi-day adventures beyond the preserve itself.
Are there routes that follow Stevens Creek?
Yes, the Canyon Trail is a favorite among cyclists, offering a descent through cool forests and along the Stevens Creek watershed. This route can connect to Stevens Creek Road and even Stevens Creek Reservoir, providing a scenic ride alongside the creek.
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