The best traffic-free bike rides in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve (Closed Areas)

There are over 20 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve. These routes offer a variety of challenges, from easy rides to difficult climbs, ensuring options for different fitness levels.

The routes in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve cater to various skill levels. You'll find 10 easy routes, 7 moderate routes, and 7 challenging routes, many of which involve significant elevation gains. For example, the Shannon Road (climb) – Blossom Hill - Shannon Road loop is an easy option, while the Top of Eureka Canyon – Old Santa Cruz Highway loop presents a difficult challenge.

Yes, Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve offers 10 easy-rated routes suitable for beginners or family outings. These routes typically feature less elevation gain and shorter distances, providing a pleasant introduction to road cycling in the preserve. An example is the Shannon Road (climb) – Blossom Hill - Shannon Road loop from Dartmouth Middle School, which is just over 16 km with minimal climbing.

For experienced road cyclists seeking a challenge, Sierra Azul offers routes with substantial climbs. Notable ascents include Mount Umunhum Road, known for its steep grades and panoramic views, and the Hicks Road Climb. Routes like the Old Santa Cruz Highway – Top of Eureka Canyon loop can involve over 1,400 meters of elevation gain.

Along your rides, you can experience diverse landscapes from serpentine grasslands to oak woodlands. Key attractions include the iconic Mount Umunhum Road (climb), which leads to spectacular 360-degree views, and the serene Guadalupe Reservoir. The preserve also features the historic radar tower atop Mount Umunhum, a remnant of the Cold War era.

Yes, many of the routes in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve are designed as loops with minimal traffic. For example, the Roadbike loop from Lexington Reservoir County Park offers a moderate 27.5 km ride, while the Mountain Charlie Road – Mountain Charlie Rd loop from Redwood Estates provides a 39 km moderate option, both designed to keep you away from heavy vehicle traffic.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve, with an average score of 4.64 stars from 113 ratings. Reviewers often praise the challenging climbs, the rewarding panoramic views from peaks like Mount Umunhum, and the diverse natural beauty of the preserve, especially the feeling of being immersed in nature away from traffic.

While road cycling is possible year-round, spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures. Summers can be hot, especially on exposed climbs, so early morning rides are recommended. Winters are usually mild, but some routes might be affected by rain, making trail conditions important to check.

Access points for road cycling routes often start from locations like Lexington Reservoir County Park or Redwood Estates. These areas typically provide parking facilities. Always check specific route details on komoot for the most accurate starting points and parking information.

Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve is home to abundant wildlife due to its diverse habitats. While cycling, you might spot various bird species, deer, and smaller mammals. The preserve is also known to have mountain lions, so it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially during dawn or dusk.

Generally, no specific permits are required for road cycling on designated trails and roads within Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve. However, it's always recommended to check the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District's official website for the latest regulations and any specific rules regarding bike access, especially concerning multi-use trails like the Kennedy Trail.