Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Login or Signup

Routes
MTB trails
United States
California
San Mateo County

South San Francisco

The best MTB trails around South San Francisco

4.6

(40)

521

riders

22

rides

Mountain biking around South San Francisco offers routes through coastal hills and areas overlooking the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay. The terrain features varied elevations, with trails winding through open spaces and some forested sections. This region provides a mix of challenging climbs and scenic descents, characteristic of the Bay Area's diverse landscape. Natural features include the San Andreas Lake and the San Francisco Bay shoreline.

Best mountain bike trails around South San Francisco

  • The most popular mountain bike trail is Pacifica Pier – Devil's Slide loop from San Bruno, a 31.1 miles (50.0 km) trail that takes 4 hours 22 minutes to complete. This difficult route features significant elevation gain along the coast.
  • Another top favourite among local mountain bikers is Pacific to SF Bay Panorama loop from Pacifica, a moderate 12.1 miles (19.5 km) path. This trail offers expansive views of both the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay.
  • Local mountain bikers also love the Baquiano Trail – Sweeney Meadow Trail loop from Pacifica, a 13.1 miles (21.1 km) trail leading through coastal hills and meadows, often completed in about 1 hour 56 minutes.
  • Mountain biking around South San Francisco is defined by coastal paths, panoramic bay views, and varied hill terrain. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate climbs to more difficult ascents.
  • The routes in South San Francisco are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 30 reviews. More than 400 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore South San Francisco's varied terrain.

Last updated: April 25, 2026

4.8

(14)

156

riders

#1.

Devil's Slide – Ace Trail loop from Pacifica

24.3km

02:34

730m

730m

Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

Navigate with device

Send to Phone

Save

Hard

Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

Hard
guide_signup
Let us show you the way with the komoot mobile app
With aΒ free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

Sign up for free

5.0

(1)

27

riders

Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

Hard

22

riders

Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
Sign up for free to see 18 more rides around South San Francisco.

Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around South San Francisco

Road Cycling Routes around South San Francisco

Hiking around South San Francisco

Running Trails around South San Francisco

Cycling around South San Francisco

Gravel biking around South San Francisco

Tips from the Community

Lisa
June 18, 2025, Nike Missile Site

You can still see evidence of what used to be the Cold War-era radar targeting system of Nike anti-aircraft missiles; the missiles themselves were based on nearby Milagra Ridge.

0

0

This isn't the sort of road you'd take a vehicle on, nowadays - but it's great for nontechnical mountain biking, and this high point gives you nice views over the surrounding hills.

0

0

Nike Missile Sites were Cold War-era anti-aircraft missile sites in the United States, designed to defend against potential Soviet air attacks. This site was in place to San Francisco.

0

0

From this spot on Old San Pedro Mountain Road, you get truly stunning, panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding foothills and grasslands. This is a great spot to take in the view and catch your breath before continuing on your ride.

0

0

Sue
February 2, 2024, Rockaway Beach

Small beach with lots of rolling waves. It is a popular spot for surfers and families with stunning coastline views.

0

0

Sue
December 16, 2023, Rockaway Beach

Small beach with lots of rolling waves. It is a popular spot for surfers and families with stunning coastline views.

0

0

This is a great spot to stop and take in the 360-degree views of the sprawling landscapes of the coastal meadows and the Pacific Ocean. Slightly to the north, you can see Bolinas Pt. in the distance.

0

0

This junction offers fantastic panoramic views, including the Pacific Ocean, San Francisco Bay, the Marin Headlands, and Mount Diablo in the distance. The Farallon Islands can be seen on the western horizon on a clear sunny day.

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many mountain bike trails are available around South San Francisco?

There are over 20 mountain bike trails around South San Francisco, offering a variety of experiences. These include 5 easy routes, 13 moderate routes, and 3 difficult routes, catering to different skill levels.

Are there any easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in South San Francisco?

Yes, South San Francisco offers several easy mountain bike trails. While specific names aren't listed as easy in the top routes, the region has 5 routes categorized as easy, providing gentler terrain for those new to mountain biking or looking for a relaxed ride.

What are some challenging mountain bike trails for experienced riders?

Experienced riders looking for a challenge can explore routes like the Devil's Slide – Ace Trail loop from Pacifica, which is 24.3 km long with significant elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Pacifica Pier – Devil's Slide loop from San Bruno, a longer 50 km route with over 1200 meters of ascent.

Are there mountain bike trails with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean or San Francisco Bay?

Absolutely. Many trails in the region offer stunning coastal and bay views. The Pacific to SF Bay Panorama loop from Pacifica is specifically known for its expansive vistas of both the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay.

What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails in South San Francisco?

The terrain around South San Francisco is diverse, featuring coastal hills, open spaces, and some forested sections. You can expect varied elevations with a mix of challenging climbs and scenic descents, characteristic of the Bay Area's landscape.

What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in South San Francisco?

The mountain bike trails in South San Francisco are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 30 reviews. Mountain bikers often praise the varied terrain, coastal paths, and panoramic bay views.

Are there any circular mountain bike routes in the area?

Yes, many of the popular mountain bike routes in South San Francisco are loops. Examples include the Devil's Slide – Ace Trail loop from Pacifica, the Pacific to SF Bay Panorama loop from Pacifica, and the Farallones Trail Lookout loop from Pacifica.

What natural attractions or landmarks can I see near the mountain bike trails?

While mountain biking, you can explore several natural attractions. Highlights include San Andreas Lake, San Bruno Mountain State & County Park, and Gray Whale Cove State Beach. You might also find viewpoints like The Point offering scenic overlooks.

Are there any trails that pass by the Interpretive Center - Hayward Regional Shoreline Museum?

Yes, the Interpretive Center - Hayward Regional Shoreline Museum is a notable facility in the region. While not directly on the listed top mountain bike routes, it's an attraction in the broader area that could be combined with a ride or visited separately.

What are some good mountain bike trails for a moderate ride?

For a moderate ride, consider the Pacific to SF Bay Panorama loop from Pacifica, which is 19.5 km long, or the Farallones Trail Lookout loop from Pacifica, a shorter 10.9 km option. Another moderate choice is the Baquiano Trail – Sweeney Meadow Trail loop from Pacifica, spanning 21.1 km.

What is the best season for mountain biking in South San Francisco?

South San Francisco generally offers good mountain biking conditions year-round, thanks to its mild climate. However, the spring and fall months often provide the most pleasant temperatures and clearer skies, making them ideal for exploring the trails. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Most popular routes around South San Francisco

Road Cycling Routes around South San Francisco

Most popular attractions around South San Francisco

Places to see

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With aΒ free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Browse the best MTB trails in other regions.

WoodsideBurlingameTeague Hill Open Space PreserveLa Honda Creek Open Space Preserve (Closed Areas)El Corte De Madera Creek Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)Wunderlich County ParkHuddart County ParkLa Honda Creek Open Space Preserve (Permit Area)El Corte De Madera Creek Open Space PreserveHighlandsEl GranadaMoss BeachMontaraPulgas Ridge Open Space PreserveBelmontSan CarlosThornewood Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)San MateoPurisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space PreserveWindy Hill Open Space Preserve (Closed Areas)Tunitas Creek Open Space Preserve (Closed)San Pedro Valley County ParkBaywood ParkWest Menlo ParkLaderaHillsboroughMiramontes Ridge Open Space Preserve (Closed)Burleigh H. Murray Ranch State ParkFoster CityHalf Moon BaySan BrunoMillbraePescadero Creek County ParkThornewood Open Space PreservePacificaSan Bruno Mountain State ParkSkyline Ridge Open Space PreservePortola ValleyWindy Hill Open Space PreserveEmerald Lake HillsSkyline Ridge Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)BroadmoorRavenswood Open Space PreserveCoal Creek Open Space PreserveEast Palo AltoRussian Ridge Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)La HondaLa Honda Creek Open Space PreserveRedwood CityPortola Redwoods State ParkLong Ridge Open Space Preserve (Closed Areas)Russian Ridge Open Space PreserveBrisbaneColmaMenlo ParkAthertonDaly CityNorth Fair Oaks

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Brisbane

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

Β© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy