The best cycling routes in Santa Cruz County

Santa Cruz County offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 200 options available. These routes cater to different skill levels, from easy coastal rides to challenging inland climbs through redwood forests.

Thanks to its mild Mediterranean climate, Santa Cruz County is suitable for touring cycling year-round, boasting over 300 days of sunshine annually. Spring and fall offer particularly pleasant temperatures, while summer is ideal for coastal rides. Even winter cycling is possible, especially along the coast.

Santa Cruz County's touring cycling routes offer access to diverse natural beauty and iconic landmarks. You can cycle past the stunning natural rock arch at Natural Bridges State Beach, explore historic ranch buildings and coastal views at Wilder Ranch State Park, or immerse yourself in ancient redwood forests. Other notable sights include the Fremont Tree and the majestic Cathedral Redwoods.

The touring cycling routes in Santa Cruz County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 80 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the region's diverse landscapes, from breathtaking ocean views to serene redwood forests, and the variety of routes suitable for all abilities.

Yes, Santa Cruz County has approximately 45 easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners. A great option is the Santa Cruz West Cliff and Riverwalk Loop, an easy 12.3-mile path offering scenic views along the Pacific Ocean and the San Lorenzo River.

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Santa Cruz County offers around 75 difficult routes. Consider the Aptos Creek and Buzzard Lagoon Loop, a 31.4-mile trail winding through redwood forests and orchards with significant elevation changes, or the Mountain Charlie Road loop for a demanding ride.

Many of the easy and moderate routes in Santa Cruz County are suitable for families. The Capitola Village loop is a pleasant 9-mile ride that takes you through the charming village, offering a relaxed experience with minimal elevation gain. Coastal paths like West Cliff Drive are also popular for family outings.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Santa Cruz County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Greyhound Rock Beach loop, the Engelsman Loop Trail, and the Soquel-Aptos Creek Loop, providing varied scenery from coast to forest.

Absolutely. Santa Cruz County is renowned for its stunning coastal routes. The Pacific Coast Bike Route: Seacliff and La Selva Beach Loop offers continuous ocean vistas and access to beautiful beaches. The Bonny Doon Beach loop also provides spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean.

Yes, Santa Cruz County offers several touring cycling routes that delve into the majestic redwood forests. The Aptos Creek and Buzzard Lagoon Loop is a prime example, taking you through ancient groves and orchards. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park also feature extensive trails suitable for cycling amidst towering trees.

For those looking for longer rides, Santa Cruz County has several routes exceeding 30 miles. The Greyhound Rock Beach loop, at nearly 40 miles, offers a challenging coastal journey, while the Mountain Charlie Road loop provides a substantial inland ride of over 38 miles with significant elevation.