The best traffic-free bike rides in Thornewood Open Space Preserve

No, bicycling, including road cycling, is explicitly not permitted within the trails of Thornewood Open Space Preserve itself. However, the surrounding area, particularly the Santa Cruz Mountains, is renowned for its scenic and challenging road cycling routes that offer a no-traffic experience.

There are over 10 curated no-traffic road cycling routes available in the vicinity of Thornewood Open Space Preserve. These routes offer a variety of distances and elevation gains for different fitness levels.

The routes near Thornewood Open Space Preserve cater to various skill levels. You'll find options ranging from easy rides, with 2 routes suitable for beginners, to 8 moderate routes, and 2 challenging routes for experienced cyclists seeking significant elevation gains.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Old La Honda Road loop from Woodside offers a great circular experience, covering nearly 20 km with significant climbing.

The road cycling routes in this area are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.56 stars from 74 reviews. Cyclists often praise the challenging climbs, beautiful scenery, and the quiet, traffic-free nature of roads like Old La Honda and Alpine Road.

While many routes in the Santa Cruz Mountains are known for their climbs, there are 2 routes classified as easy, which could be more suitable for beginners. For family-friendly options, it's best to check individual route descriptions for specific details on terrain and elevation, as the area generally features significant hills.

Parking availability varies by route starting point. Popular starting locations for routes like Old La Honda Road or Alpine Road often have designated parking areas nearby. For instance, the Alpine Road loop from Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve would typically involve parking near the preserve or a suitable public area in the vicinity.

For a significant challenge, consider routes like the Lower Kings Mountain Road – Kings Mountain Road loop from Cañada College, which spans over 58 km with more than 1400 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Lobitos Creek Road – Higgins Canyon Road loop from Skeggs Point, offering a similar distance and over 1100 meters of climbing.

The Santa Cruz Mountains generally offer good cycling conditions year-round. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer can be warm, especially on exposed sections, while winter might bring rain, but many days remain clear and suitable for riding. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

The routes often pass through or near small towns like Woodside or Portola Valley, where you can find cafes and stores for refreshments. It's advisable to plan your stops in advance, especially on longer rides, as some sections of these no-traffic roads can be quite remote.

While you won't be cycling inside Thornewood Open Space Preserve itself, the surrounding routes offer stunning views of the Santa Cruz Mountains. You'll ride through diverse landscapes including redwood, Douglas fir, oak, and madrone woodlands. Some routes may offer glimpses of the southern San Francisco Bay and the Diablo Range, providing a truly immersive natural experience.