The best traffic-free bike rides in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
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Touring cycling in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park offers routes through diverse landscapes, from ancient redwood groves to riparian zones along the San Lorenzo River. The park features varied terrain, including designated fire roads and quiet country roads, providing a range of experiences for cyclists. Elevations vary, with some routes offering views of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The area is characterized by its iconic old-growth redwood forests and unique Santa Cruz Sandhills.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Fremont Tree loop from Paradise Park, a 6.8 miles (11.0 km) trail that takes about 1 hour to complete. This moderate route winds through the park's impressive redwood forests.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Redwood Forest Trail loop from University of California, Santa Cruz, an easy 6.6 miles (10.7 km) path. This trail offers a gentle ride through shaded redwood groves.
- Local touring cyclists also love the U-Con Trail – Chuck Beebe Scenic Bench loop from West Marshall Field Natural Reserve, a 6.9 miles (11.1 km) trail leading through varied forest landscapes, often completed in about 1 hour 10 minutes.
- Touring cycling in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is defined by towering old-growth redwoods, the San Lorenzo River, and diverse ecosystems including sandhills. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging fire road climbs.
- The routes in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 70 reviews. More than 2600 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
7
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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(1)
28
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Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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8
riders
11.0km
00:53
260m
260m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
10.7km
01:06
120m
120m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Tips from the Community
This is a coastal redwood, not a Sequoia redwood which is a different species found inland.
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Named after the Ohlone people, who have called this area home for centuries, this trail along the coastline offers dramatic views of the beaches and cliff faces. This is a multi-use path that is suitable for most riders, though it can get muddy, so it's best to avoid after large storms.
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Also known as "fairy rings", Cathedral trees are found in a circle where they sprouted from the roots of their parent tree. Over time the Redwoods grow to incredible heights which invokes a sense of another type of Cathedral.
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This area is a steep, gullied region containing numerous springs and seeps (areas where water oozes slowly out of the ground). A diverse range of wildlife, including bobcats, cows, eagles, and squirrels, can be found here.
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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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This trail provides a pleasant, steady incline that meanders through Wilder Ranch State Park. The area boasts stunning wildflowers, and you'll encounter a pleasant mix of shade and open fields along the way.
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Wilder Ranch State Park was formerly a dairy ranch with restored ranch buildings that now serve as a museum. It also offers an extensive trail network for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
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Eucalyptus Loop is a scenic fire road in Wilder Ranch State Park. The road runs for a little over 3 miles, with sections along Baldwin and Meder Creek.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park?
There are over 30 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy rides through redwood groves to more challenging paths with scenic views.
Are there easy no-traffic touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park offers 10 easy no-traffic touring cycling routes. A great option for families or beginners is the Redwood Forest Trail loop from University of California, Santa Cruz, which provides a gentle introduction to the park's majestic redwoods.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
The no-traffic touring cycling routes primarily utilize designated fire roads such as Pipeline Road, Rincon Fire Road, Ridge Fire Road, and Powder Mill Fire Road. These surfaces are generally well-maintained, offering a mix of packed dirt and gravel, suitable for touring bicycles. You'll experience diverse environments, from shaded redwood forests to open meadows and chaparral.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Many routes pass by iconic natural features and landmarks. You can encounter the towering Fremont Tree, explore the serene Cathedral Redwoods, or discover the unique Santa Cruz Sandhills. Some trails also lead to the Sandhills Observation Deck, offering views of the Pacific Ocean.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring cycling routes in the park?
Yes, several no-traffic touring cycling routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Fremont Tree loop from Paradise Park, which offers a moderate ride through the park's scenic areas.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the redwood groves, the well-maintained fire roads that ensure a no-traffic experience, and the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature away from busy roads.
Is there a bicycle-specific campsite available for touring cyclists?
Yes, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is particularly welcoming to touring cyclists, offering a dedicated bicycle-specific campsite. This makes it convenient for those planning multi-day tours or simply looking for an overnight stay within the park.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park?
The park is generally enjoyable year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and lush scenery. Summer can be warm but the redwood groves provide ample shade. Winter brings cooler, wetter conditions, which can make some unpaved sections muddy, but the redwoods are still magnificent.
Are dogs allowed on the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Dogs are generally permitted on paved roads and in developed areas of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, but typically not on unpaved trails or fire roads where bicycles are allowed. It's always best to check the official park regulations directly on the California State Parks website for the most current information regarding pet access on specific routes.
How can I access Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park by public transport with my bicycle?
Public transport options to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park are available, primarily through Santa Cruz Metro buses. Some routes may have bike racks, but it's advisable to check the Santa Cruz Metro schedule and bike policies in advance to ensure your bicycle can be accommodated for your journey to the park's access points.
Are there any challenging no-traffic touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 5 difficult no-traffic touring cycling routes available. These routes often feature more significant elevation changes and longer distances, providing a rewarding workout amidst the park's stunning landscapes.
Can I find routes that combine different ecosystems within a single ride?
Absolutely. The park's diverse habitats mean many routes traverse multiple ecosystems. You can start in dense redwood forests, transition through riparian zones along the San Lorenzo River, and then emerge into the unique Santa Cruz Sandhills or open meadows, all within a single touring cycling adventure.
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