The best traffic-free bike rides in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve

There are around two dozen dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes within Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 6 easy, 8 moderate, and 10 difficult options, ensuring a suitable ride for most cyclists.

Cyclists can expect a diverse range of stunning scenery. The preserve is famous for its towering coast redwoods, particularly along trails like the Craig Britton Trail. You'll also ride through the lush Purisima Creek Canyon, with its vibrant understory of ferns and wildflowers. Higher elevations offer spectacular panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Half Moon Bay, especially from trails like Harkins Ridge and Soda Gulch.

While many routes involve significant elevation changes, there are easier options suitable for families with some cycling experience. The preserve's extensive network allows for shorter, less strenuous loops, particularly on wider fire roads. For a moderate option, consider the Skeggs Point – El Corte de Madera Creek Trail loop from Skeggs Point, which offers a good balance of distance and elevation.

The preserve is enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer the most pleasant conditions with mild temperatures and less chance of heavy rain or summer heat. The redwood-shaded canyon areas provide a refreshing escape during warmer months. During the wet season, some trails, like Whittemore Gulch, may be closed to bikes, so it's always good to check current trail conditions before heading out.

Experienced touring cyclists looking for a challenge will find several difficult routes with significant elevation gains. Options include the demanding Purisima Creek Trailhead – Top of the climb loop, which covers over 36 km with nearly 900 meters of ascent. Another challenging ride is the Tunitas Creek Road – Top of the climb loop from Huddart County Park, spanning almost 65 km with over 1400 meters of climbing.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Kings Mountain Road – Lower Kings Mountain Road loop from Woodside, offering a challenging 17 km ride, and the moderate Skeggs Point – El Corte de Madera Creek Trail loop.

Bike parking facilities are available at various trailheads within the preserve. Notable parking areas include the Purisima Creek Trailhead and Redwood Trailhead. Plans are also in place for additional installations at the North Ridge parking area. Skyline Boulevard (State Route 35) also provides scenic access to the preserve.

The preserve is home to a variety of wildlife. While cycling, you might spot bobcats, coyotes, and rabbits. In the moist canyon areas, especially during winter, keep an eye out for the iconic banana slug. Birdwatching is also popular, with many species inhabiting the diverse ecosystems.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from 55 ratings. Reviewers often praise the immersive experience of cycling through towering redwood forests, the challenging yet rewarding climbs, and the breathtaking coastal views from higher ridges. The quiet, traffic-free nature of the routes is consistently highlighted as a major draw.

Yes, the preserve offers several points of interest. You'll encounter the historic remnants of ancient redwood stumps, some up to 20 feet in diameter, along the Purisima Creek Trail, offering a glimpse into the area's logging past. The Purisima Creek Redwoods trailhead itself is a key access point, and sections of Skyline Boulevard provide scenic approaches and views.

Given the varied terrain, which includes well-maintained trails, fire roads, and some unpaved segments, touring bikes, gravel bikes, or mountain bikes are generally suitable. The significant elevation changes mean a bike with a good range of gears will be beneficial. Road bikes might be limited to specific paved sections or smoother fire roads.