Tips
July 31, 2020
Road cycling
August 30, 2025
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Wilder Ranch Bike Path
5.0
(3)
182
riders
54.5km
02:24
460m
460m
The Swanton Pacific Ranch loop from Santa Cruz offers a captivating road cycling experience, transitioning from the vibrant agricultural fields of artichokes and Brussels sprouts to expansive ocean vistas. You'll ride past iconic coastal viewpoints like the Davenport Pier Overlook and Shark Fin Cove, with redwood-covered slopes providing a lush backdrop. The route delivers a diverse journey through Santa Cruz County's varied environments.
This moderate 33.9-mile (54.5 km) loop, with 1501 feet (458 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 23 minutes. An early start, ideally before 10 AM, is recommended, especially between November and August, to avoid strong afternoon headwinds. The route is well-paved and features a generally wide shoulder along Highway 1, making it accessible for a range of fitness levels.
What makes this route stand out is its blend of accessibility and natural beauty, providing a rewarding ride without the extreme demands of steeper mountain roads. From the top of Swanton Road, you can even spot Año Nuevo Island, known for its elephant seal population. It's considered one of the most popular road cycling routes in the area, offering a comprehensive taste of the Santa Cruz region's charm.
105
riders
53.3km
02:51
850m
850m
The Bonny Doon & California Coastal National Monument loop from Santa Cruz offers a truly dynamic road cycling experience, transitioning from sweeping Pacific Ocean views to the cool, dense redwood forests of the Santa Cruz Mountains. You'll find yourself pedaling along the coast, then plunging into the quiet solitude of areas like Ice Cream Grade, where towering trees create a natural canopy. This route is a fantastic way to experience the diverse landscapes of the region, providing both challenging climbs and rewarding descents.
This moderate road cycling route covers 33.1 miles (53.3 km) with a significant 2802 feet (854 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 50 minutes to complete. It's a demanding ride that requires good fitness, especially for the strenuous sections of Bonny Doon Road. Starting from Santa Cruz, it's easily accessible, but be prepared for the substantial climbing involved. Ensure your bike is in good condition and you carry plenty of water for the duration.
This loop is famous in the cycling world, having been a proving ground for professional cyclists in the Tour of California, solidifying its reputation as one of the best road bike rides in the Santa Cruz area. The Bonny Doon climb itself is a notable feature, known for its challenging grades. While the California Coastal National Monument primarily refers to offshore features, the coastal segments of this loop provide continuous ocean views and connect you to the diverse onshore environments.
5.0
(1)
41
riders
67.8km
03:22
980m
980m
The Wilder Ranch Loop is a demanding 42.1-mile (67.8 km) road cycling route that promises a diverse and challenging experience, climbing 3225 feet (983 metres) over approximately 3 hours and 22 minutes. You'll traverse everything from packed dirt roads to technical singletrack, winding through coastal bluffs, open fields, and even redwood-timbered drainages. The route offers breathtaking ocean views, particularly along the Ohlone Bluff Trail, where you can gaze at white sand beaches and dramatic cliff faces, but be ready for a difficult ride that's better suited for gravel or mountain bikes than traditional road bikes.
Planning your visit to the Wilder Ranch Loop means preparing for varied terrain; some sections feature steep descents, tree roots, and rocky patches, so check trail conditions beforehand. Parking is available at Wilder Ranch State Park, and arriving early, especially on weekends, is a good idea to secure a spot. While there are no specific permit requirements, carrying ample water is essential, particularly on sunny coastal stretches.
What makes the Wilder Ranch Loop truly stand out is its incredible variety of landscapes packed into one park, offering a unique blend of coastal vistas and inland forests. While it's a difficult route for road cycling, it's a fantastic option for those seeking an advanced road cycling adventure on a more robust bike. For a less technical ride, you can explore the Highway 1 Bike Path nearby or stick to the smoother fire roads within the park.
Details
Informations
Distance 1.49 km
Uphill 20 m
Downhill 10 m
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