La Honda & Skyline Ridge loop from Mountain View

This route is considered difficult and requires very good fitness. It involves substantial climbing, with over 1,380 meters (4,500 feet) of elevation gain. While the Old La Honda Road segment offers a consistent workout, be prepared for a demanding ride that can take over five hours.

The route primarily features paved roads, but some segments may be unpaved and challenging. A significant portion is on Old La Honda Road, a winding mountain road with an average grade of nearly 8%, reaching up to 14% in sections. There's also a ~100ft bypass trail around a washout on Old La Honda Road where you might need to walk your bike. Skyline Boulevard can have fast drivers and limited shoulder space. You'll encounter diverse surfaces, from well-maintained pavement to potential fire roads if you venture into Open Space Preserves.

You'll experience beautiful and varied scenery, including old-growth redwood forests, oak woodlands, and open ridges. The route traverses several Open Space Preserves along Skyline Road, such as Russian Ridge, Coal Creek, and Skyline Ridge, offering diverse natural landscapes. From certain points, especially along Spring Ridge Trail, you can enjoy engaging views of the bay.

Yes, the route is celebrated for its scenic beauty. You'll pass through numerous protected open space preserves. Keep an eye out for bay views from certain points, particularly along the Spring Ridge Trail. The Old La Honda Road itself is an iconic climb in the Bay Area.

Yes, a popular spot for a break or meal is Alice's Restaurant, located at the intersection of Skyline and Route 84. You'll also pass by Rossotti's Alpine Inn, which is another convenient place to stop.

The route offers rewarding views year-round, but the best time to cycle depends on your preference. Spring and fall generally offer pleasant temperatures. Be prepared for varied weather conditions, especially along Skyline Ridge, which can be exposed.

While the tour starts from Mountain View, specific parking details for the trailhead are not provided. It's advisable to look for public parking options in Mountain View that accommodate longer stays, especially given the duration of this challenging ride.

The starting point in Mountain View is generally accessible by public transport, including Caltrain and local bus services. You would need to plan your route to the specific start location in Mountain View.

Generally, no specific permits or entrance fees are required for cycling on the public roads and through the open space preserves along this route. However, always check the latest regulations for any specific preserves you plan to enter or linger in.

This route is primarily a road cycling tour. While some open space preserves along the way may allow dogs on leash on specific trails, the main cycling route itself is not typically considered dog-friendly for accompanying pets due to traffic and the nature of the ride.

Yes, the route intersects with several other paths. Notably, it includes sections of the San Antonio/Arastradero Corridor, El Monte Alignment, and the Peninsula Bikeway. You'll also encounter parts of the Bay Area Ridge Trail - 04 - San Francisco and Peninsula.

Old La Honda Road is a classic and well-regarded 'benchmark climb' for road cyclists in the Bay Area, known for its consistent grade and scenic beauty through redwood forests. It's about 3 miles long with an average grade just under 8%. While it has light car traffic, be aware of a ~100ft bypass trail around a 2018 washout where you might need to walk your bike.