The best cycling routes in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

There are over 150 touring cycling routes available in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy, moderate, and difficult paths to explore.

You can expect diverse terrain, from paved roads and gentle slopes suitable for easier rides, to more challenging fire trails with steeper inclines. Routes traverse towering old-growth redwood forests, riparian areas along the San Lorenzo River, and unique Santa Cruz Sandhills habitats. E-bikes are permitted on designated trails.

Yes, the park offers several easier routes suitable for families. The Pipeline Road, mentioned in the region research, provides an easy ride with gentle slopes. Generally, routes on paved roads are more family-friendly. There are 35 easy routes in total within the park.

The park is rich with natural beauty and historical sites. You can cycle past the iconic old-growth redwood grove, home to the famous Fremont Tree, a hollowed-out redwood you can step inside. Other points of interest include the Cathedral Redwoods, the Sandhills Observation Deck – View of the Pacific Ocean offering panoramic views, and the Lime Kiln ruins in the Fall Creek Unit.

Yes, many routes in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park are designed as loops. For example, the moderate Chuck Beebe Scenic Bench – Seep Zone Nature Reserve loop from Roaring Camp is a popular circular option, covering 8.7 miles (14.0 km) through diverse ecosystems.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 70 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning old-growth redwood forests, the variety of terrain, and the peaceful atmosphere. Over 2,700 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the park's varied routes.

While the park is generally dog-friendly in certain areas, specific rules apply to trails. Dogs are typically allowed on paved roads and fire trails on a leash, but not on single-track trails or within the Fall Creek Unit. Always check current park regulations before your visit.

The Fall Creek Unit, a non-contiguous section of the park, features almost twenty miles of connecting trails along creeks. During the rainy season, these creeks form small waterfalls, offering scenic views for those exploring that area. While cycling is restricted to specific trails, you might find opportunities to see these features.

Parking is available at various access points within Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. A bicycle campsite is also available for those cycling into the park, requiring registration at the campground kiosk on Graham Hill Road. For public transport, options may be limited directly to trailheads, so checking local bus schedules for routes near Felton or Santa Cruz is advisable.

The park can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant weather for cycling, with mild temperatures and less chance of extreme heat or heavy rain. The redwood forests provide shade, making summer rides comfortable, while winter can bring lush greenery and seasonal waterfalls, though some trails might be muddy.

Absolutely. The park offers 55 difficult routes for those seeking a challenge. An example is the Bonny Doon Beach – Natural Bridges State Beach loop from Mount Hermon, which covers 32.8 miles (52.8 km) with significant elevation gain, providing a demanding ride through varied landscapes.

Generally, a day-use fee or a California State Parks Pass is required for vehicle entry into the park. For cyclists, there isn't a specific 'bike permit' beyond standard park entry requirements. However, if you plan to use the bicycle campsite, registration is required at the campground kiosk.

Yes, some routes extend beyond the core park area, offering longer rides and different scenery. For instance, the challenging Mountain Charlie Road – Awesome view out to the ocean loop from Bear Mountain is a 48.4-mile (77.9 km) route that provides extensive views and connects to broader regional cycling opportunities.