South El Pomar Road loop from Charles Paddock Zoo
South El Pomar Road loop from Charles Paddock Zoo
4.5
(4037)
19,128
riders
01:30
29.9km
280m
Road cycling
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: April 5, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
19.6 km
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
29.9 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
15.8 km
8.16 km
4.61 km
1.30 km
Surfaces
15.3 km
14.5 km
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (400 m)
Lowest point (250 m)
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Weather
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Today
Wednesday 1 July
21°C
9°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 29.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a road cycling route that offers a satisfying climb without committing to an all-day epic, the South El Pomar Road loop from Charles Paddock Zoo is a solid choice. This 18.6-mile (29.9 km) route, rated easy overall, packs in 907 feet (277 metres) of elevation gain, and you can comfortably complete it in about 1 hour and 30 minutes. It's perfect for cyclists who appreciate varied terrain and scenic views, providing a good workout with a picturesque start and finish.
What to expect on South El Pomar Road loop from Charles Paddock Zoo
Starting from the Charles Paddock Zoo, now known as the Central Coast Zoo, you'll immediately find yourself in the pleasant surroundings of Atascadero Lake Park. The route quickly transitions from this charming park setting into the rolling hills and extensive oak woodlands characteristic of the Atascadero area. While the overall loop is rated easy, be prepared for the South El Pomar Road section itself, which features a notable climb with an average gradient of 7.2% over 0.6 miles, and some sections exceeding 10%. This challenging segment offers a significant workout, rewarding you with views of the Santa Lucia Mountains, vineyards, and creeks as you traverse the diverse landscape. The surfaces are mostly well-paved, making for a smooth ride for road bikes.
Planning your visit
The route conveniently begins at the Charles Paddock Zoo, located within Atascadero Lake Park, which provides a picturesque starting and ending point. While specific parking details aren't always highlighted, the park setting generally offers accessible parking. Since the area is known for its diverse terrain and natural beauty, consider riding during pleasant weather to fully enjoy the scenic vistas. There are no specific permits or seasonal closures mentioned, making this a flexible option for a spontaneous ride.
Trail details
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