The best road cycling routes around Bonny Doon

Bonny Doon is renowned for its challenging terrain within the Santa Cruz Mountains, featuring significant elevation gains. While there are 18 easy routes, the majority of the 68 routes are moderate (27) or difficult (23), catering to cyclists seeking strenuous climbs. The area is famous for its consistent and challenging pitches, with some sections reaching 9.4% to 12.4% grades.

Absolutely. Bonny Doon is a prime destination for experienced road cyclists, having been featured in the Tour of California. Routes like the Branciforte Drive – Bear Creek Road loop from Felton Roaring Camp offer over 2,000 meters of elevation gain over 94 km. The Bonny Doon Road/Empire Grade climb is particularly known for its demanding and consistent gradient.

Yes, while Bonny Doon is known for its climbs, there are easier options available. The Santa Cruz Lighthouse – West Cliff Cycleway loop from Mount Hermon is an easy 35.3 km route that features coastal views and a relatively flat profile, making it suitable for those looking for a less strenuous ride.

Road cycling routes in Bonny Doon often wind through lush redwood forests and offer occasional coastal vistas, especially near Highway 1. You can also find unique ecosystems within the region, such as the Santa Cruz Sandhills. Notable landmarks include the Santa Cruz Lighthouse, and natural monuments like Natural Bridges State Beach and Needle Rock.

Bonny Doon offers excellent cycling conditions for much of the year. The region's climate is generally mild, but for optimal riding, spring and fall often provide the most pleasant temperatures and clear skies. Summer can be warm, especially on climbs, while winter might bring rain, though many days remain suitable for cycling.

Parking availability varies depending on your chosen starting point. Many routes begin from areas with designated parking, such as near Felton Roaring Camp or Mount Hermon. Roads in Bonny Doon often have narrow shoulders suitable for cycling and light traffic, but specific parking facilities should be checked for your chosen route.

While Bonny Doon is primarily accessed by car, some routes may be reachable via public transport connections to nearby towns like Santa Cruz or Felton. However, direct public transport access to specific trailheads within Bonny Doon itself can be limited, making personal vehicle transport often more convenient for cyclists.

While Bonny Doon itself is a more rural area, you can find cafes and amenities in nearby towns such as Felton or Santa Cruz, which often serve as starting or ending points for many routes. It's advisable to plan your stops and carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer rides through the more remote sections.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 40 reviews. Reviewers often praise the challenging climbs, the serene beauty of the redwood forests, and the well-paved surfaces with light traffic. The diverse routes, from coastal views to mountain ascents, are also frequently highlighted.

Yes, many of Bonny Doon's road cycling routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Mountain Charlie Rd loop from Redwood Camp and the Branciforte Drive – Bear Creek Road loop from Felton Roaring Camp, offering diverse distances and elevation profiles.

Yes, the Bonny Doon Ecological Reserve is a significant natural attraction in the area. This 552-acre preserve protects the unique Santa Cruz Sandhills habitat, home to rare and endemic species like the Bonny Doon manzanita. While cycling routes may pass nearby, you can learn more about this unique ecosystem at wildlife.ca.gov.