Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
The best gravel rides in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
5.0
(2)
31
riders
4
rides
Gravel biking in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area) offers routes through diverse landscapes, including redwood groves, Douglas fir forests, and oak woodlands. The preserve features perennial creeks and varied terrain with significant elevation changes. Higher points provide views of the Santa Cruz Mountains' Sierra Azul Range. This area provides a mix of challenging climbs and scenic trails suitable for gravel biking.
Best gravel bike trails in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
- The most popular…
Last updated: October 14, 2026
12
riders
51.5km
03:41
890m
890m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
6
riders
25.9km
02:01
740m
740m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
2
riders
53.1km
04:30
1,280m
1,280m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
5.0
(2)
9
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
2
riders
25.6km
02:08
800m
800m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
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Tips from the Community
Approaching Hicks road from Camden Ave. Avoid this area on Sundays between 8 AM to noon. It gets busy with impatient church people. The first 6 miles are meandering narrow roads with gentle climbs. The famous Hicks Climb starts with a sharp left bend on an old bridge. You face immediately a 14% gradient which is unnerving if it is your first time. The roads gains 800 feet in 1.2 miles. The average gradient of 8% hides the fact that there are some sections with 3-4% gradient in this 1.2 miles. Be patient on the climb. Your speed may drop under 3 MPH at times. Come mentally prepared and have some mantras to boost your spirits during the climb. Slow down on descent. The road surface is cold- sealed asphalt so you get good traction but slow down. The road is steep and there are some potholes and wide cracks here and there. Check your brake pads!! Temperature can have a significant impact. Ride it when it is under 75 degrees and road is not wet. Some riders connect this ride with Mount Umunhum climb totaling to 3100 feet of elevation gain in less than 7 miles of which 1.1 miles are either flat of downhill! Be safe …
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This is not a very exciting trail to hike. It’s pretty much a trail surrounded by thick walls of vegetation, with almost no opportunity to view your surroundings. The trail is 70% rocks/gravel, and 30% hard packed clay, so avoid wearing snickers
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Great bar. Friendly helpful staff/owner simple ordering system. Great place to watch the world go by with a beer 🍻
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This non-profit organization was founded in 1968 in an effort to preserve the history of the steam locomotive and commemorate the life of Billy Jones.
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The trail is gravel but well paved. The view is partially blocked by trees but still pretty.
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Shannon Road starts with a gentle climb from Los Gatos Creek to Blossom Hill Park, then transitions into a steeper ascent as it leads into a rural area. The summit below Blossom Hill offers a rewarding challenge and connects to other routes in the area.
1
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Three of the most popular area trails come together here; depending on how ambitious you are, you might return to this juncture several times as you crank through the forested hills.
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From the top of the dam you get splendid views out across Lexington Reservoir. To the north you overlook the winding end of the Los Gatos Creek Trail, which connects to the Jones Trail across from the restroom just up the road. The dam itself was constructed in 1952 and stands at nearly 200 feet tall.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)?
There are 5 dedicated gravel biking routes within Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area) that you can explore.
What are the general difficulty levels for gravel biking in the preserve?
The preserve primarily offers challenging routes, with 4 out of 5 routes rated as difficult. There is also one moderate route available, providing options for different fitness levels. Some routes may require pushing your bike due to significant elevation gains.
Are there any beginner-friendly gravel biking options in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve?
While most routes in the preserve are challenging, there is one moderate route available. For those seeking easier options, the preserve also features the 0.2-mile Upper Lake Loop Trail, which is an easy-access pathway, though it's primarily for walking and showcases habitat restoration.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while gravel biking in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve?
You'll experience diverse landscapes, including lush redwood groves, extensive second-growth redwood and Douglas fir forests, and varied oak woodlands. Perennial creeks crisscross the preserve, and higher elevations offer sweeping views of the Santa Cruz Mountains' Sierra Azul Range.
Are there any loop gravel biking trails in the preserve?
Yes, several routes are loops. For example, you can try the challenging Blossom Hill - Shannon Road – Mine Hill Trailhead loop from Oak Meadow, or the Lake Ranch Reservoir – Lexington Reservoir loop from Oak Meadow which offers views of the reservoirs.
What are some of the longer gravel biking routes in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve?
One of the longer and more challenging routes is the Blossom Hill - Shannon Road – Mine Hill Trailhead loop from Oak Meadow, which spans 33.0 miles (53.1 km) and typically takes over 5 hours to complete with substantial elevation gain.
Are there any historical or cultural points of interest along the gravel biking trails?
Yes, near the main parking lot, you can explore the Alma Cultural Landscape. This area features interpretive signage and historical artifacts, including Ohlone mortars, offering a glimpse into California's past.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on the trails?
The preserve is home to a rich ecosystem, providing habitat for a variety of wildlife. You might spot mountain lions, bobcats, Western pond turtles, and various bird species while on your ride.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the routes here?
The routes in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area) are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Riders often praise the challenging climbs, the peaceful redwood groves, and the expansive mountain views from higher elevations.
Is there parking available for gravel bikers at Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve?
Yes, there is a main parking lot available for visitors to the preserve. The Alma Cultural Landscape, with its historical elements, is also located near this main parking area.
Are there any specific rules or policies for biking in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve?
The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District manages the preserve, and it's important to be aware of their trail use rules. While many trails are suitable for gravel biking, always check for current regulations regarding multi-use trails and bicycle access to ensure a compliant and enjoyable ride.
What is a good route for experiencing redwood and Douglas fir forests?
The Lexington Reservoir – Los Gatos Creek Trail loop from Oak Meadow is a great option. This 15.8-mile (25.4 km) trail leads directly through beautiful redwood and Douglas fir forests.
Are there any routes that offer views of the reservoirs?
Yes, the Lake Ranch Reservoir – Lexington Reservoir loop from Oak Meadow is a popular choice that provides scenic views of both reservoirs and the surrounding woodlands.
Most popular routes in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
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