The best traffic-free bike rides in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)

Once upon a time this was the only general store in this area, serving not only as a general-purpose retailer but also the post office, bank, and informal dentist's office. Nowadays it's a museum, staffed by docents ready to offer drop-in history lessons.

Miramar Beach offers a serene coastal escape with sandy shores and scenic vistas. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the shoreline or explore the nearby California Coastal Trail, which provides stunning ocean views and connects to other local attractions.

Woodside Store was built back in the 1850s by two pioneers who came to California for the gold rush. At the time it was the only stagecoach stop between San Francisco and Santa Clara, and it carried all the essential items that travelers riding between cities might need. The store has been restored, inside and out, to look exactly as it did centuries ago. You can call the museum ahead of your trip to book tours.

Exactly what it says on the tin! The truth is that most of the trail along Half Moon Bay is nice and flat, making for an easy, casual ride with incredible views.

The Woodside Store, also known as Tripp Store, is located at 3300 Tripp Road at Kings Mountain Road in Woodside, San Mateo County, California. It has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1985 and was designated a California Historical Landmark in 1949. The store's history dates back to October 1849 when Matthias Alfred Parkhurst purchased land in the area and began a shingle-making and lumber business with his partners, including Robert Orville Tripp. The store was established in 1853, originally serving the needs of lumbermen and settlers during the Gold Rush era. Dr. Tripp became the sole operator of the store after Parkhurst's death in 1863, running it until his own death in 1909. He was a well-known figure in Woodside, holding various public offices. The San Mateo County Historical Association acquired the store in the 1940s, and it was restored to its 1880s condition by 1994.

Higgins Canyon Road, located near Half Moon Bay in San Mateo County, California, is a scenic and narrow route that is popular among cyclists. The road begins in the quaint town of Half Moon Bay and heads inland into the Santa Cruz Mountains. Starting with a gentle incline, the road passes through farmland, horse pastures, and eucalyptus groves before climbing into dense forests of redwoods and oaks. The climb along Higgins Canyon Road is steadily uphill, but manageable, and features several sharp curves and blind corners (be alert on the descent!). The road is narrow and, unfortunately, lacks a shoulder in most areas, but the traffic is relatively light. As you climb, you are rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and occasional glimpses of the distant Pacific Ocean. Higgins Canyon Road also connects to other popular cycling roads, like Tunitas Creek Road and Lobitos Creek Road, offering further opportunities for extended your ride through the scenic terrain of the Santa Cruz Mountains.

An awesome descent or ascent following the pretty, tree lined mountain road. There aren't many cars, but it's not a wide road so do watch out and enjoy the road rather than race it.

As you explore, you will find yourself surrounded by a dense canopy of trees that offer ample shade all day long. Feel free to make use of the nearby stream to take a break and fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking surroundings.