The best cycling routes in the Santa Cruz Mountains

The Santa Cruz Mountains offer a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 420 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy scenic rides to challenging mountain climbs.

You'll find diverse terrain, including shaded routes through ancient redwood forests, picturesque coastal bluffs with ocean views, and rolling grasslands. Routes vary from paved pathways like the Los Gatos Creek Trail to more challenging mountain roads and fire roads.

The most comfortable times for touring cycling are generally spring and fall, when the weather is mild and trail conditions are excellent. While winter can bring rain, making some higher elevations drier and more rideable, spring and fall offer the most consistent pleasant conditions.

Yes, there are 77 easy touring cycling routes. A great option for beginners is the Los Gatos Creek Trail, which is 16.7 miles long and follows a scenic creek, offering a gentle ride. The West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz also provides a gentle, paved pathway with scenic views.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 148 difficult touring cycling routes. Consider the Lexington Reservoir & Saratoga Gap via Black Road loop, which covers over 34 miles with significant elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Los Trancos & Westridge loop via Portola Road, offering a substantial climb.

The Santa Cruz Mountains are rich in natural beauty. You can cycle through majestic redwood forests in parks like Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, enjoy panoramic ocean views along coastal routes, and pass by serene lakes such as San Andreas Lake and Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir. Some routes also offer views of prominent peaks like Black Mountain.

Yes, many routes are suitable for families. The Los Gatos Creek Trail is an excellent choice, offering a flat, paved surface. Additionally, the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) area provides fire road connectivity with some family-friendly loops, and the West Cliff Drive is a popular, safe option for all ages.

Absolutely. Many touring cycling routes in the Santa Cruz Mountains are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Stevens Canyon Road Loop, the Bay Area Ridge Trail: Calero Park Loop, and the Bald Peaks Loop.

Yes, parking is generally available at or near many trailheads and state parks throughout the Santa Cruz Mountains. Popular parks like Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Wilder Ranch State Park, and Forest of Nisene Marks State Park offer designated parking areas for visitors accessing their trail networks.

The Santa Cruz Mountains are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 230 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's diverse landscapes, from the towering redwoods to the stunning coastal views, and the extensive network of routes that cater to all abilities. The variety of terrain and scenic beauty are frequently highlighted.

While popular spots can get busy, you can often find quieter routes by exploring some of the less-trafficked backroads or trails within larger parks. For instance, while the main trails are popular, exploring different sections of Forest of Nisene Marks State Park or some of the less-known mountain roads can offer a more serene experience away from the crowds.

Absolutely. The Santa Cruz Mountains offer excellent opportunities to combine cycling with other outdoor pursuits. The Watsonville Wetlands, for example, provides seven miles of pathways ideal for cycling and is a prime spot for birdwatching. Many routes also pass through areas rich in wildlife, making it easy to enjoy nature while you ride.