The best road cycling routes around Redwood

Yes, the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is an excellent choice. This paved, 10-mile road winds through old-growth redwood forests and is suitable for various skill levels, including families. On the first Saturday of each month from October to May, it's closed to motorized vehicles for a peaceful 'Hike and Bike Day'.

The Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway is about 10 to 11.4 miles long. While the exact duration depends on your pace and stops, most cyclists can comfortably complete the roundtrip in 1 to 2 hours, allowing time to enjoy the towering redwoods.

For a more challenging experience, consider Bald Hills Road. This route offers a significant elevation gain, providing sweeping views of redwood-covered mountains and meadows. It's a longer ride, often exceeding 30 miles with over 4,000 feet of climbing.

The Redwood region offers good cycling conditions year-round, but late spring through early fall (May to October) generally provides the most pleasant weather. During these months, you'll find milder temperatures and less rain, making for more comfortable rides through the forests and along the coast.

The Redwood Coast experiences a mild, temperate climate. Summers are cool and often foggy, especially near the ocean, while winters are wet but rarely freezing. Be prepared for potential fog, especially in the mornings, and always carry layers as conditions can change quickly from coast to inland forests.

While popular routes like the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway can see visitors, many rehabilitated logging roads within the parks offer less crowded cycling experiences. These routes allow you to explore both redwood forests and coastal cliffs away from the main thoroughfares. For specific routes, komoot offers options like the Wimberley loop or San Marcos to Kyle & Lockhart for BBQ loop, which provide varied terrain.

Bald Hills Road is renowned for its panoramic viewpoints, offering expansive vistas of redwood-covered mountains and open meadows. The Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway also provides breathtaking views directly into the heart of ancient redwood groves.

Yes, while the region has varied terrain, routes like the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway offer relatively flat sections. For routes with less climbing, consider options such as the San Marcos to Kyle & Lockhart for BBQ loop, which features gentle ascents and over 640 feet of climbing over 44.6 miles, or the Lower Purgatory Trailhead loop from San Marcos, an easy 20.7-mile ride with around 880 feet of elevation gain.

Beyond the magnificent redwood trees, you can encounter diverse landscapes including coastal views, prairies, and wildlife such as Roosevelt elk grazing in meadows. Some routes may pass near natural attractions like Spring Lake Natural Area or Lime Kiln Pond, offering additional points of interest.

E-bikes are generally permitted on hike/bike trails solely within the boundaries of Redwood National Park. However, regulations can vary in the state park sections, so it's always advisable to check the specific rules for the area you plan to ride. More information can often be found on the National Park Service website.

There are 7 road cycling routes available around Redwood on komoot. These include 2 easy routes, 4 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route, offering options for various skill levels and preferences.

Road cyclists using komoot often praise the region's open roads, rolling hills, and varied distances that cater to different ability levels. The opportunity to cycle through towering redwood forests and experience diverse terrain is a highlight for many.