The best traffic-free bike rides in Long Ridge Open Space Preserve
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No traffic road cycling routes in Long Ridge Open Space Preserve traverse a diverse landscape within the Santa Cruz Mountains. The area features sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains, Pescadero Valley, and the Pacific Ocean from various ridgetop areas. Road cyclists can expect a mix of shady woodlands, creekside forests, and extensive grasslands, with elevations providing varied gradients. The preserve connects to a larger network of protected lands, offering extended cycling opportunities on paved, low-traffic roads.
Best no traffic road cycling routes in Long Ridge Open Space Preserve
- The most popular no traffic road cycling route is Black Mountain – Montebello Road loop from Picchetti Ranch Open Space Preserve, a 13.9 miles (22.4 km) trail that takes 1 hour 58 minutes to complete. This route features significant elevation gain through varied terrain.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Rossotti's Alpine Inn – Dwight Crowder Path loop from Los Trancos Open Space Preserve, a moderate 14.9 miles (24.0 km) path. This route offers a blend of scenic views and challenging climbs.
- Local road cyclists also love the Adobe Creek – Altamont Road Vineyard loop from Los Altos Hills, a 21.4 miles (34.5 km) trail leading through varied landscapes, often completed in about 2 hours 9 minutes.
- Road cycling in Long Ridge Open Space Preserve is defined by panoramic ridgetop views, diverse woodlands, and open grasslands. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate climbs to longer, more challenging routes.
- The routes in Long Ridge Open Space Preserve are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 700 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Long Ridge Open Space Preserve's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
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Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
12
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Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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61
riders
33.6km
02:00
820m
820m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
10
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18.9km
00:59
290m
290m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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13.4km
01:11
540m
540m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Long Ridge Open Space Preserve
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Tips from the Community
The Northern part of Alpine Road is a paved and curvy descent through wooded areas and runs parallel to Coal Mine Ridge Preserve, eventually connecting with the trailhead there.
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This mostly paved bike trail alongside Alpine Road is great for bike commuting — just don't run over any slower trail users! The trail runs all the way from Portola Valley to Stanford, offering some nice shade along the way. The brief moments of unpaved trail are near the Portola Valley end.
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Great paved road that takes you through Picchetti Ranch Open Space Preserve. On clear days, there are great views of the Cupertino valley and the San Francisco Bay.
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Stevens Creek Reservoir spans 87 acres and is surrounded by a 1,063-acre park. Visitors can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, and limited fishing. Seasonal boating for low-power boats is available from mid-April to mid-October. The park is open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset, with vehicle entry fees collected year-round at the Chestnut Parking Lot. Visitors can explore natural beauty and historic remnants like the Villa Maria orchard.
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Black Mountain, situated on Monte Bello Ridge, is a popular destination for hikers and mountain bikers. With an elevation of 2,812 feet, it's easy to understand why. From the summit, the views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and Silicon Valley are breathtaking.
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This fantastic tavern, founded in 1852, is the second oldest in the state. It features a large, beer garden-style outdoor area with plenty of shade. An extensive beer and food menu makes it a perfect stop to enjoy a brew and some great food after a ride.
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Great paved road that takes you through Picchetti Ranch Open Space Preserve. On clear days, there are great views of the Cupertino valley and the San Francisco Bay.
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Standing at 2,800 feet, this mountain provides stunning views of the Monte Bello Open Space Preserve. Accessible from five different parks, reaching this summit allows you to add variety to your route.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available in Long Ridge Open Space Preserve?
There are currently 5 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes available in and around Long Ridge Open Space Preserve. These routes offer varying distances and elevations, catering to different fitness levels.
What is the general difficulty level of no-traffic road cycling routes in Long Ridge Open Space Preserve?
Most of the no-traffic road cycling routes in this area are rated as moderate. This means they typically involve significant elevation changes and can be quite demanding. There is also one easy route for those looking for a less strenuous ride.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic road cycling options in Long Ridge Open Space Preserve?
While many routes in the preserve are moderate, the Roadbike loop from Saratoga High School is rated as easy. This shorter route, at 17.6 km with 262 m of elevation gain, could be a good option for families or beginners looking for a less challenging experience.
What kind of views can I expect on the no-traffic road cycling routes?
Long Ridge Open Space Preserve is known for its sweeping vistas. From various ridgetop areas, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Santa Cruz Mountains, the Pescadero Valley, and often the Pacific Ocean. The Turtle Rock Viewpoint is a particularly notable spot for stunning views.
Are there any specific landmarks or points of interest along the no-traffic road cycling routes?
While the routes focus on the cycling experience, you'll be riding through a diverse landscape. Notable features include the Turtle Rock Viewpoint, offering panoramic views. You'll also pass through varied habitats like shady woodlands and grasslands. The preserve itself is a significant natural landmark, connecting to other protected lands like Saratoga Gap Open Space Preserve.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about the no-traffic routes in Long Ridge Open Space Preserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from 11 ratings. Reviewers often praise the challenging climbs, the rewarding panoramic views, and the opportunity to cycle on roads with minimal traffic, allowing for a more immersive experience in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
What is the longest no-traffic road cycling route available?
The longest no-traffic road cycling route is the Adobe Creek – Altamont Road Vineyard loop from Los Altos Hills, which covers approximately 34.5 km with an elevation gain of 809 meters. This moderate route offers a substantial ride for experienced cyclists.
Is there a route that offers a significant elevation challenge?
Yes, for a significant climbing challenge, consider the Stevens Creek Reservoir – Montebello Road loop from Saratoga High School. This route features an elevation gain of over 816 meters across its 33.6 km distance, providing a demanding workout for road cyclists.
What is the best time of year to go road cycling in Long Ridge Open Space Preserve?
The preserve offers seasonal beauty. Spring brings spectacular displays of wildflowers in the grasslands, while autumn provides patches of color. Generally, spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for cycling. Summers can be warm, and winters might bring rain, so checking weather conditions is always recommended.
Are there any facilities like restrooms or water along the no-traffic road cycling routes?
The Long Ridge Open Space Preserve itself does not have facilities like restrooms, drinking water fountains, or picnic tables. However, the Saratoga Summit Ranger and Fire Station is noted as having facilities. It's advisable to carry sufficient water and supplies for your ride.
Can I find circular no-traffic road cycling routes in the preserve?
Yes, all the no-traffic road cycling routes listed are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Black Mountain – Montebello Road loop from Picchetti Ranch Open Space Preserve is a popular circular option.
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