The best traffic-free bike rides in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

There are 9 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes in and around Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park featured in this guide. These routes offer a range of difficulties, from easy to challenging, allowing you to explore the park's diverse landscapes.

Yes, there are 3 easy routes suitable for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed ride. For example, the West Cliff Cycleway – Natural Bridges State Beach loop from Santa Cruz offers a gentle 10.5 km ride, and the West Cliff Cycleway – Surfer Statue loop from Swift Halt is another easy option at 12.8 km.

The routes vary, but within Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, you'll find designated fire roads like Pipeline Road, Rincon Fire Road, Ridge Fire Road, and Powder Mill Fire Road, which are open to cyclists. These can range from gentle slopes, ideal for beginners, to steeper inclines for more experienced riders. The park's diverse habitats include redwood forests, grasslands, and riparian zones along the San Lorenzo River.

While cycling, you can experience the towering old-growth redwood groves. Keep an eye out for highlights like the Fremont Tree, a hollowed-out redwood you can step inside, or the majestic Cathedral Redwoods. From higher elevations, you might even catch glimpses of Monterey Bay from the Sandhills Observation Deck – View of the Pacific Ocean.

Yes, there are 2 difficult routes for those seeking a greater challenge. The Big Basin Redwood State Park loop from Big Basin Way & Hilton Drive is a demanding 45.9 km ride with significant elevation changes, perfect for experienced cyclists.

The routes in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet, scenic roads and the immersive experience of riding through the ancient redwood forests and diverse landscapes.

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is generally enjoyable year-round. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be warm but the redwood groves provide shade. Winter can bring rain, but the park's diverse ecosystems remain vibrant, and the San Lorenzo River is active with steelhead trout and coho salmon.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your path. Examples include the East Zayante Rd loop from Ben Lomond and the Roadbike loop from Forest Springs, both offering moderate challenges.

Absolutely. Beyond cycling, you can explore the 40-acre old-growth redwood grove via the accessible Redwood Grove Loop Trail. The San Lorenzo River offers opportunities for swimming at the Garden of Eden. Adjacent to the park, Roaring Camp Railroads provides a unique experience with historic steam locomotives traveling through the redwoods.

Bicycling is generally permitted on designated paved roads and specific fire trails within Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, including Pipeline Road, Rincon Fire Road, Ridge Fire Road, and Powder Mill Fire Road. For specific regulations or any required permits for special activities, it's always best to check the official park website: California State Parks - Henry Cowell Redwoods.

Yes, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park offers a dedicated bicycle campsite for touring cyclists who arrive by bike. Registration is required at the campground kiosk upon arrival.