The best road cycling routes around Mount Hermon

There are 9 road cycling routes detailed for the Mount Hermon area, offering a range of experiences from moderate to difficult. These routes allow you to explore the diverse landscapes of the Santa Cruz Mountains.

The terrain around Mount Hermon is characterized by the Santa Cruz Mountains, featuring mostly well-paved surfaces ideal for road bikes. You'll encounter coastal redwoods, mixed evergreen forests, and riparian zones. Some routes offer views of the Monterey Bay and pass through unique natural features like the Santa Cruz sandhills.

Yes, there is one easy route available, and several moderate options that might suit beginners looking for a bit more challenge. For example, the Lake Wasigan – Lime Kiln loop from Kalarama is a moderate 21-mile ride with over 1,300 feet of elevation gain, offering a good balance for those building experience.

Elevation gains vary significantly. You can find routes with over 1,300 feet of climbing, such as the moderate Lake Wasigan – Lime Kiln loop from Kalarama. For more challenging rides, routes like the difficult View of the Paulins Kill River loop from Kalarama feature over 3,000 feet of elevation gain.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Paulinskill Valley Trail – Paulinskill Viaduct loop from Hope Township and the Jenny Jump State Forest loop from Hope Township.

The routes often pass through stunning natural environments. You'll experience coastal redwoods, diverse forested areas including mixed evergreens and riparian zones, and unique Santa Cruz sandhills. Many routes also offer scenic views, including glimpses of the Monterey Bay.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the View of the Paulins Kill River loop from Kalarama is a difficult 48.4-mile route with over 3,000 feet of elevation gain, leading through forested areas and along the river.

The Santa Cruz Mountains generally offer pleasant cycling conditions for much of the year. While specific seasonal advice isn't provided, the region's mild climate, characterized by coastal redwoods and diverse forests, suggests that spring through fall would be ideal for enjoying the routes without extreme weather.

Yes, there are several longer routes for endurance cyclists. The Paulinskill Valley Trail – Paulinskill Viaduct loop from Hope Township covers 53.5 miles with over 2,400 feet of climbing, and the View of the Paulins Kill River loop from Kalarama is 48.4 miles long.

Many routes offer scenic vistas, including a great overview of the Monterey Bay. You'll also enjoy picturesque views of the diverse forested areas, including coastal redwoods and riparian zones, as you cycle through the Santa Cruz Mountains.

More than 25 road cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain around Mount Hermon, indicating a community of riders who enjoy these specific routes.