The best traffic-free bike rides in Thornewood Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)

It's important to clarify that bicycling is generally not permitted within the internal trails of Thornewood Open Space Preserve. The touring cycling routes in this guide utilize public roads surrounding the preserve, which are known for their relatively low traffic and scenic beauty, offering a 'no traffic' experience in that context. These roads provide challenging rides with significant elevation changes.

There are 13 touring cycling routes available in the Thornewood Open Space Preserve area, offering a range of experiences for cyclists. These routes primarily use the public roads surrounding the preserve.

The touring cycling routes around Thornewood Open Space Preserve are generally challenging. There are 7 moderate routes and 6 difficult routes, often featuring significant elevation gains due to the mountainous terrain.

While the internal preserve trails are for hiking, the surrounding public roads offer scenic views of the Santa Cruz Mountains. From certain vantage points on the nearby Thornewood Open Space Preserve trails (not accessible by bike), you can catch glimpses of the southern San Francisco Bay, Palo Alto, and the Diablo Range. The cycling routes themselves wind through diverse forest types, including redwood, Douglas fir, oak, and madrone woodlands.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from 22 ratings. Reviewers often praise the challenging climbs, beautiful forest scenery, and the sense of accomplishment from tackling the significant elevation changes on these routes.

Given the challenging nature of the routes, with 7 moderate and 6 difficult options, the touring cycling in the Thornewood Open Space Preserve area is generally more suited for experienced cyclists. There are no easy routes listed in this guide that would typically be considered family-friendly for touring cycling.

Parking is typically available at trailheads or designated parking areas along the public roads that serve as starting points for these routes. For example, routes like the Alpine Road loop from Enid Pearson-Arastradero Preserve may have parking facilities at the preserve itself, or along the public roads in the vicinity.

The region experiences mild, Mediterranean weather. Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling, with cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summers can be warm, especially on climbs, while winters are typically mild but can bring rain.

The touring cycling routes are on public roads, so general road rules apply. If you are considering bringing a dog, ensure they are safely secured in a bike trailer or carrier. Within Thornewood Open Space Preserve's internal trails, dogs are permitted on-leash for hiking, but these trails are not accessible for cycling.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in this area are designed as loops. For instance, you can enjoy the Kings Mountain Road – Lower Kings Mountain Road loop from Woodside or the Old La Honda Road – Old La Honda Road loop from Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve, both offering challenging circular rides.

The routes vary in length, catering to different endurance levels. For example, the Skeggs Point – El Corte de Madera Creek Trail loop from Skeggs Point is about 11.8 km, while the Old La Honda Road – Portola Valley loop from Enid Pearson-Arastradero Preserve extends to approximately 23.2 km.

Public transport options directly to the specific starting points of these touring cycling routes, which are often on less-trafficked mountain roads, may be limited. It is advisable to check local bus schedules or consider driving to a suitable parking area near your chosen route's start.