Moore Creek Upland Open Space Preserve
Moore Creek Upland Open Space Preserve
The best traffic-free bike rides in Moore Creek Upland Open Space Preserve
4.4
(48)
3,070
riders
6
rides
Road cycling in Moore Creek Upland Open Space Preserve's surrounding area offers diverse terrain for cyclists. While cycling is prohibited within the preserve itself, the adjacent Santa Cruz region provides a variety of no traffic road cycling routes. The area features coastal paths with ocean views, quiet local roads, and routes that ascend into the Santa Cruz Mountains. These routes navigate through varied landscapes, including coastal prairies, oak woodlands, and areas with views of Monterey Bay.
Best no traffic road cycling routes in Moore Creek Upland Open Space Preserve
- The most popular no traffic road cycling route is West Cliff Cycleway β Surfer Statue loop from Swift Halt, an 8.0 miles (12.8 km) trail that takes 33 minutes to complete. This easy route offers coastal views along the West Cliff Drive.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Companion Bakeshop β Branciforte Drive loop from Swift Halt, an easy 16.6 miles (26.7 km) path. This route includes a moderate climb with an elevation gain of 684 feet (208 m) through local roads.
- Local road cyclists also love the Mountain Charlie Rd β Isbel Grove loop from Santa Cruz Boardwalk, a 47.7 miles (76.8 km) trail leading through the Santa Cruz Mountains, often completed in about 4 hours 6 minutes. This difficult route features significant elevation changes.
- Road cycling in the area surrounding Moore Creek Upland Open Space Preserve is defined by coastal paths, quiet local roads, and ascents into the Santa Cruz Mountains. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy coastal rides to challenging mountain loops.
- The routes in Moore Creek Upland Open Space Preserve are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 50 reviews. More than 3,000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Moore Creek Upland Open Space Preserve's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
16
riders
12.8km
00:33
50m
50m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
35
riders
19.5km
00:59
280m
280m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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9
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
12
riders
76.8km
04:07
1,330m
1,330m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
19
riders
35.8km
01:56
660m
660m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Popular around Moore Creek Upland Open Space Preserve
Tips from the Community
Nice little lookout point well off the beaten parh.
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Granite Creek Road is a quiet local road between Scotts Valley and Soquel, with light traffic and a steady, manageable climb. The pavement is generally good, and itβs a practical way to connect to longer rides through the Santa Cruz Mountains. Itβs mostly shaded, which makes the ascent more comfortable.
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A scenic stop just off the winding roads of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Lexington Reservoir County Park is a great spot to catch your breath and enjoy the view. The smooth pavement along Alma Bridge Road makes it a popular stretch for cyclists, with rolling terrain and minimal traffic. There's parking, restrooms, and shaded areas if you need a break. From here, you can loop toward Los Gatos or push deeper into the climbs of Highway 17 and Old Santa Cruz Highway.
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George Washington Memorial Grove, adorned with majestic spruce trees, invites cyclists to immerse themselves in its natural splendor. Offering a selection of scenic trails, it provides a refreshing biking experience amidst lush surroundings.
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The Santa Cruz Riverwalk runs along the San Lorenzo River levee from the Highway 1 Bridge to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, providing easy access to downtown Santa Cruz.
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The surfer statue along West Cliff Drive is a landmark of Santa Cruz. The statue stands at 18 feet tall and was inspired by members of the 1936 Santa Cruz Surfing Club.
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The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is California's oldest surviving amusement park. This 24-acre park was founded in 1907 and offers old-fashioned carnival games and food booths.
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Next to the San Lorenzo River, you'll find this lovely park where, besides some fun slides, benches, and shaded lawns, you can find restrooms. Ideal for a little break before continuing with the route.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are these routes truly traffic-free, and can I cycle within Moore Creek Upland Open Space Preserve itself?
While the routes provided are selected for their low traffic or dedicated cycleway sections, it's important to note that bicycles are prohibited on the trails within Moore Creek Upland Open Space Preserve itself. These road cycling routes are located in the surrounding Santa Cruz area, offering scenic rides that complement a visit to the preserve on foot.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these no-traffic road cycling routes?
The routes vary in terrain, from flat coastal paths to more challenging climbs in the Santa Cruz Mountains. For example, the West Cliff Cycleway β Surfer Statue loop offers a relatively flat ride along the coast, while the Mountain Charlie Rd β Isbel Grove loop includes significant elevation gain, providing a diverse experience for road cyclists.
Are there any easy, family-friendly no-traffic road cycling routes?
Yes, there are several easy routes suitable for families. The West Cliff Cycleway β Natural Bridges State Beach loop is a great option, offering a gentle ride with scenic coastal views and the chance to visit Natural Bridges State Beach.
What are some notable landmarks or viewpoints along these routes?
Many routes offer stunning views of Monterey Bay and the Pacific Ocean. The West Cliff Cycleway β Surfer Statue loop passes by the iconic Surfer Statue. While cycling is restricted within the preserve, you can explore its diverse ecosystems, including wildflower fields and oak woodlands, on foot to experience its unique natural beauty.
What is the best time of year to enjoy no-traffic road cycling in this region?
The Santa Cruz area generally offers pleasant cycling conditions year-round. Spring brings vibrant wildflower displays, while summer and fall provide warm, clear days ideal for coastal rides. Winter can be cooler and wetter, but many days are still suitable for cycling, especially on the lower elevation routes.
Are there any loop routes available for road cyclists?
Yes, all the routes featured in this guide are loop routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Companion Bakeshop β Branciforte Drive loop and the Santa Cruz Boardwalk β Granite Creek Road loop, offering convenient circular journeys.
Where can I find parking for these road cycling routes?
Many of these routes start from accessible points in Santa Cruz, such as Swift Halt or the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, where public parking options are available. It's advisable to check local parking regulations and availability before your ride, especially during peak seasons.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in the Santa Cruz area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse scenery, from ocean views to shaded mountain roads, and the availability of routes catering to various difficulty levels, including those with minimal traffic.
Are there options for more challenging no-traffic road cycling routes?
Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the Mountain Charlie Rd β Isbel Grove loop from Santa Cruz Boardwalk is a difficult route covering over 76 kilometers with significant elevation gain, offering a rewarding experience through the Santa Cruz Mountains.
Can I combine a road cycling trip with a visit to Natural Bridges State Beach?
Yes, you can! The West Cliff Cycleway β Natural Bridges State Beach loop specifically takes you past Natural Bridges State Beach, known for its picturesque natural arches and annual monarch butterfly migration. It's a perfect spot to pause and explore on foot during your ride.
Are there any cafes or places to stop for refreshments along these routes?
Many routes start or pass through areas with cafes and eateries, particularly those beginning near Santa Cruz Boardwalk or Swift Halt. For example, the Companion Bakeshop β Branciforte Drive loop is named after a popular local bakery, indicating opportunities for refreshment stops.
Most popular routes in Moore Creek Upland Open Space Preserve
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