The best cycling routes in Loch Lomond Recreation Area
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Touring cycling in Loch Lomond Recreation Area features a diverse landscape, encompassing open space preserves, coastal stretches, and hilly terrain. The region includes areas like Glenwood Open Space Preserve and routes offering views from Skyline Boulevard. Elevations vary, with some trails leading through areas near Mount Hermon, providing both challenging climbs and scenic vistas.
Best touring cycling routes in Loch Lomond Recreation Area
- The most popular touring cycling route is Glenwood Open Space Preserve loop from Sand Dollar Hill Ridgeβ¦
Last updated: October 12, 2026
3
riders
9.06km
00:43
240m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
riders
15.3km
01:05
280m
280m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
70.5km
05:03
1,420m
1,430m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Granite Creek Road is a quiet local road between Scotts Valley and Soquel, with light traffic and a steady, manageable climb. The pavement is generally good, and itβs a practical way to connect to longer rides through the Santa Cruz Mountains. Itβs mostly shaded, which makes the ascent more comfortable.
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The Peak is a 3,005-foot mountain in Santa Clara County. The high point is marked by a large mossy rock, a short distance away from the end of the trail. This is a great, challenging summit for any mountain biker.
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The Pipeline route is authorised for cycling and runs through the whole park diagonally. To visit the deep parts go hiking.
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This State Park allows to enjoy the original wilderness as before. Be careful on the steep hills and use authorised routes for cycling or hiking only
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George Washington Memorial Grove, adorned with majestic spruce trees, invites cyclists to immerse themselves in its natural splendor. Offering a selection of scenic trails, it provides a refreshing biking experience amidst lush surroundings.
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Felton Covered Bridge Park is a small city park and home to the Felton Covered Bridge, which is the tallest covered bridge in the United States. The bridge is a California Historical Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Additionally, the park offers a playground, sand volleyball court, picnic area, and access to the San Lorenzo River.
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Glenwood Open Space Preserve is 170 acres of undeveloped land on the north side of Scotts Valley. It offers 7 miles of multi-use trails, as well as diverse habitats such as redwood groves, lush wetlands, and evergreen forests.
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Boulder Creek sits just below the Santa Cruz Mountains and is the gateway to Big Basin Redwoods State Park. The downtown area offers bars and restaurants that occupy buildings dating back to the early 1900s.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Loch Lomond Recreation Area?
There are over 50 touring cycling routes available in the Loch Lomond Recreation Area, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.
Are there touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, the Loch Lomond Recreation Area offers routes suitable for various skill levels. While many routes are moderate to difficult, there are at least 2 easy routes available. For a moderate option, consider the Glenwood Open Space Preserve loop from Sand Dollar Hill Ridge, which is 13.3 miles (21.4 km) long and offers accessible terrain.
What are the most challenging touring cycling routes in the area?
For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the Loch Lomond Recreation Area has over 30 difficult routes. A notable option is the Saratoga Gap Trailhead β Skyline Boulevard Views loop from Boulder Creek, which spans 43.4 miles (69.9 km) and features significant elevation gains with expansive views.
Are there circular touring cycling routes in Loch Lomond Recreation Area?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Glenwood Open Space Preserve loop from Sand Dollar Hill Ridge and the Chuck Beebe Scenic Bench β U-Con Trail loop from Mount Hermon.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Loch Lomond Recreation Area?
The Loch Lomond Recreation Area generally offers pleasant touring cycling conditions for much of the year. Spring and fall often provide mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. While specific winter conditions can vary, some routes may be accessible year-round, though it's always advisable to check local weather forecasts.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes here?
The terrain in Loch Lomond Recreation Area is diverse, ranging from open space preserves and coastal stretches to hilly ascents. You'll encounter varied surfaces and elevations, with some routes featuring significant climbs and others offering more moderate, rolling landscapes.
Are there routes with scenic viewpoints or notable landmarks?
Absolutely. Many routes offer stunning vistas. For example, the Saratoga Gap Trailhead β Skyline Boulevard Views loop from Boulder Creek provides expansive views from Skyline Boulevard. Another route, the Chuck Beebe Scenic Bench β U-Con Trail loop from Mount Hermon, is known for its scenic viewpoints.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Loch Lomond Recreation Area?
The touring cycling routes in Loch Lomond Recreation Area are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.9 stars from over 9 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from open spaces to challenging hilly terrain, and the rewarding views.
What should I wear or bring for touring cycling in this region?
Given the varied terrain and potential for elevation changes, it's advisable to dress in layers to adapt to changing temperatures. Always bring sufficient water, snacks, a repair kit, and navigation tools. Checking the local weather forecast before you head out is also recommended.
Are there any coastal touring cycling routes?
Yes, the Loch Lomond Recreation Area includes routes that feature coastal stretches. The Bonny Doon Beach β Natural Bridges State Beach loop from Mount Hermon is an example of a route that incorporates coastal scenery.
What is the typical duration for touring cycling routes in the area?
Route durations vary significantly based on distance and difficulty. For instance, a moderate route like the Glenwood Open Space Preserve loop from Sand Dollar Hill Ridge typically takes about 1 hour 30 minutes, while more challenging routes such as the Glenwood Open Space Preserve β Granite Creek Road loop from Mount Hermon can take around 2 hours 37 minutes.
Most popular routes in Loch Lomond Recreation Area
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