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February 16, 2024
Cycling
April 30, 2019
Cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Santa Cruz Riverwalk
4.5
(2)
93
riders
19.7km
01:08
60m
60m
The Santa Cruz West Cliff and Riverwalk Loop offers an easy touring cycling experience that truly showcases the best of Santa Cruz. You'll start by cruising along the stunning West Cliff Drive, where the Pacific Ocean views are endless and you might spot surfers at Steamer Lane or even marine life. The route then transitions to the Santa Cruz Riverwalk, following the San Lorenzo River through downtown, providing a pleasant change of scenery with urban nature and tree-lined paths. It's a paved, mostly flat ride, perfect for a relaxed outing.
This 12.3-mile (19.7 km) loop, with only 184 feet (56 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 7 minutes to complete, making it accessible for most riders. While the West Cliff Drive section can get crowded with pedestrians and other cyclists, the Riverwalk offers a smoother, less congested experience. You'll need to dismount your bike when passing through the busy Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk area, which connects the two main sections of the loop.
Beyond the scenic ride, the loop connects you to several key Santa Cruz landmarks. You'll pass the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, housed in the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse, and reach Natural Bridges State Beach, famous for its sandstone arch and tide pools. The San Lorenzo Trestle bike-ped bridge, part of the future Coastal Rail Trail, is also a notable feature, highlighting the area's commitment to cycling infrastructure.
67
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
24
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Distance 375 m
Uphill 10 m
Downhill 10 m
Weather
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Friday 12 June
19°C
13°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 5.0 km/h
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