Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
The best road cycling routes in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
4.9
(8)
895
riders
27
rides
Road cycling routes in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area) traverse a landscape characterized by towering second-growth redwoods and the meandering Purisima Creek Canyon. The preserve features significant elevation changes, with routes descending into dense redwood forests and climbing to ridges offering views of the San Mateo County coast and Half Moon Bay. While some routes follow wider trails and old logging roads, they are suitable for road cycling, often requiring good fitness due to elevation gains.
Bestβ¦
Last updated: April 26, 2026
5.0
(2)
29
riders
22.2km
01:09
250m
250m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
17
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
Sign up for free
34
riders
80.8km
04:10
1,350m
1,350m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
18
riders
43.3km
02:11
650m
650m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
28
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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 Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
Hiking in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
MTB Trails in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
Cycling in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
Running Trails in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
Gravel biking in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
Tips from the Community
The Bike Hut is a small hut with fresh water, organic teas and coffee and a variety of snacks for cyclist passing by. It is self-serve and open 24/7. There is also a small picnic area, a bathroom and a message board for posting road conditions or notes to fellow cyclists.
0
0
Woodside Store was built back in the 1850s by two pioneers who came to California for the gold rush. At the time it was the only stagecoach stop between San Francisco and Santa Clara, and it carried all the essential items that travelers riding between cities might need. The store has been restored, inside and out, to look exactly as it did centuries ago. You can call the museum ahead of your trip to book tours.
0
0
Purisima Creek Trailhead features a fence separating the trail from the road and a small pit toilet at the base. Parking is available just 250 feet southeast along Skyline Boulevard. This trail offers everything, from stunning views to towering redwoods, fern-filled canyons, and creeks. Riding through the redwoods is a unique experience.
0
0
Skyline Boulevard, also known as State Route 35, offers a scenic drive through the majestic redwoods of the Santa Cruz Mountains and Bay Area. Winding through forests, open spaces, and mountains, this section passes by the Purisima Creek Redwoods. It's a breathtaking ride through where the redwoods meet the road.
0
0
The Woodside Store, also known as Tripp Store, is located at 3300 Tripp Road at Kings Mountain Road in Woodside, San Mateo County, California. It has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1985 and was designated a California Historical Landmark in 1949. The store's history dates back to October 1849 when Matthias Alfred Parkhurst purchased land in the area and began a shingle-making and lumber business with his partners, including Robert Orville Tripp. The store was established in 1853, originally serving the needs of lumbermen and settlers during the Gold Rush era. Dr. Tripp became the sole operator of the store after Parkhurst's death in 1863, running it until his own death in 1909. He was a well-known figure in Woodside, holding various public offices. The San Mateo County Historical Association acquired the store in the 1940s, and it was restored to its 1880s condition by 1994.
0
0
Higgins Canyon Road, located near Half Moon Bay in San Mateo County, California, is a scenic and narrow route that is popular among cyclists. The road begins in the quaint town of Half Moon Bay and heads inland into the Santa Cruz Mountains. Starting with a gentle incline, the road passes through farmland, horse pastures, and eucalyptus groves before climbing into dense forests of redwoods and oaks. The climb along Higgins Canyon Road is steadily uphill, but manageable, and features several sharp curves and blind corners (be alert on the descent!). The road is narrow and, unfortunately, lacks a shoulder in most areas, but the traffic is relatively light. As you climb, you are rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and occasional glimpses of the distant Pacific Ocean. Higgins Canyon Road also connects to other popular cycling roads, like Tunitas Creek Road and Lobitos Creek Road, offering further opportunities for extended your ride through the scenic terrain of the Santa Cruz Mountains.
0
1
San Gregorio State Beach is the perfect spot for starting and finishing long road rides. There is free parking along with public restrooms and water fountains here. It's worth locking up the bike and walking out onto the beach before you leave after your ride.
1
0
An awesome descent or ascent following the pretty, tree lined mountain road. There aren't many cars, but it's not a wide road so do watch out and enjoy the road rather than race it.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve?
The preserve offers a diverse cycling experience. While some routes follow wider trails and old logging roads, they are generally suitable for road cycling. You'll encounter significant elevation changes, with trails descending into dense redwood forests and climbing to ridges that offer expansive views of the San Mateo County coast and Half Moon Bay. Be prepared for some unpaved segments, where a gravel bike might be more comfortable than a traditional road bike with narrow tires.
Are there any easy road cycling routes for beginners in the preserve?
Yes, there are options for less experienced riders. For example, the Higgins Canyon Road loop from Johnston Ranch is an easy 13.6-mile route that offers a scenic ride through the redwood canopy. There are 5 easy routes available in total, providing gentler grades for those looking for a more relaxed ride.
What are some challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders?
For those seeking a challenge, routes like the Lobitos Creek Road β Higgins Canyon Road loop from Woodside offer significant elevation gains and longer distances. This particular route covers over 37 miles (60 km) with substantial climbing, requiring good fitness. The preserve features 4 difficult routes in total.
What are the best times of year to go road cycling in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve?
The cool, moist conditions under the redwood canopy make for a refreshing escape, especially during warmer months. However, it's always advisable to check the weather forecast, as conditions can vary. The preserve's diverse microclimates mean you can experience foggy redwood groves and sunnier ridges on the same ride.
Are there any specific rules or permits required for road cycling in the preserve?
While general park rules apply, there are no specific permits mentioned for road cycling. However, it's crucial to be aware of trail designations, as some trails might be exclusively for hiking or mountain biking. Always check the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District's official website for the most current information on trail access and any temporary closures before your visit.
Where can I park when visiting Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve for road cycling?
The main entrance off Skyline Boulevard (Highway 35) is currently the most reliable access point for parking. The lower Purisima Creek trailhead and parking area near Half Moon Bay have experienced storm damage, so it's best to use the Skyline Boulevard entrance and check the official Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District website for the latest access information.
What natural features or viewpoints can I expect to see along the road cycling routes?
You'll be immersed in a landscape dominated by towering second-growth redwoods, with the lively Purisima Creek meandering through the canyon. The northern reaches of the preserve provide magnificent vistas of the San Mateo County coast and Half Moon Bay, with spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean accessible from higher elevations on trails like Harkins Ridge, Soda Gulch, and parts of Whittemore Gulch Trail.
Are there any loop routes available for road cycling?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes in the preserve are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Verde Road loop from Half Moon Bay, which is a moderate 31.8-mile path, and the Kings Mountain Road β Lower Kings Mountain Road loop from Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve, a 10.8-mile route through redwood forests.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 10 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning redwood canopy, the challenging yet rewarding elevation changes, and the expansive coastal views from higher points. The variety of routes, from easy to difficult, also contributes to its popularity among nearly 1,000 komoot users.
Are there any amenities like cafes or restrooms near the road cycling routes?
The preserve itself is a natural open space, so amenities like cafes are not typically found directly on the trails. It's advisable to plan your hydration and nutrition in advance. For cafes or other services, you would need to venture into nearby towns such as Half Moon Bay, which is accessible from some routes.
Can I bring my dog on road cycling routes in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve?
While the preserve is generally dog-friendly for hikers, specific rules for dogs on cycling trails can vary. It's best to check the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District's official website for current regulations regarding dogs on designated bicycle trails to ensure compliance and a pleasant experience for everyone.
How many road cycling routes are available in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve?
There are over 25 road cycling routes available in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve, offering a wide range of distances and difficulty levels to suit various preferences and fitness levels.
Most popular routes in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
