The best gravel rides in San Luis Obispo County

The Pozo Gravel Adventure is a challenging gravel biking route that plunges you into the remote beauty of the Los Padres National Forest, offering a true test of endurance and skill. You'll navigate a diverse landscape of gravel and dirt roads, interspersed with technical, rocky sections and even some rough chip seal. From the historic Pozo Saloon, the route climbs through rolling countryside, revealing expansive vistas from high points like Pozo Summit and Panza Summit, with pine-adorned mountaintops and distant ocean views.

This difficult 57.0-mile (91.8 km) adventure, with its 6542 feet (1994 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 9 hours and 45 minutes to complete. It's best tackled by advanced riders with excellent fitness, especially outside of the hot summer months; spring and fall offer ideal conditions. Be prepared for a long day in a remote area, and consider wider tires, like 47mm, to handle the varied and often rugged terrain.

What makes this route truly notable is its blend of demanding climbs, technical descents, and the sense of remote adventure it provides within the Santa Margarita backcountry. It's a comprehensive gravel biking experience that will push your limits, rewarding you with stunning natural beauty and a deep immersion in the wilderness, far from crowded trails.

The Octopus Oak Viewpoint – Adam Hill Memorial Bench loop offers a fantastic gravel biking experience, winding through diverse landscapes of oak woodlands and open grassy hillsides. You'll be treated to expansive coastal views from the Octopus Oak Viewpoint, looking out towards Spindrift and Spyglass, and later from the Adam Hill Memorial Bench, which provides a serene spot to take in Shell Beach and Pismo Beach. This moderate 6.4-mile (10.3 km) route involves 726 feet (221 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 1 hour and 1 minute to complete, making it a great option for a scenic, active outing.

When planning your ride, keep in mind that the Pismo Preserve's heavy clay soils can become unsafe and too wet for biking after rain, so it's best to check conditions beforehand. While a marine layer might greet you in the early mornings, the afternoons typically clear up, providing sunny ocean vistas. The trails are multi-use, so expect to share the path with hikers and equestrians.

This loop is a highlight of the Pismo Preserve, known for its varied ecosystems that include coastal bluffs and oak woodlands. The Adam Hill Memorial Bench is a significant landmark, serving as a tribute to Supervisor Adam Hill, who was dedicated to public service in San Luis Obispo County. The Octopus Oak Viewpoint is another must-visit spot, offering distinct panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.