The best MTB trails around Felton
4.7
(244)
2,333
riders
15
rides
Mountain biking around Felton, California, offers diverse terrain within the Santa Cruz Mountains, characterized by ancient redwood forests and varied trail systems. The landscape features towering trees, scenic valleys, and the nearby San Lorenzo River. This region provides year-round riding conditions across a network of trails suitable for different skill levels.
Best mountain bike trails around Felton
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Felix the Cat, Chinquapin, Pipe Dream and Magic Carpet Loop, a 4.0 miles (6.4 km) trail that takes 42 minutes to complete. This easy route winds through redwood groves and offers a flowing ride.
- Another top favourite among local mountain bikers is Cathedral Redwoods β Chuck Beebe Scenic Bench loop from Felton Roaring Camp, a moderate 12.0 miles (19.3 km) path. This route explores the majestic redwood forests and offers views from scenic benches.
- Local mountain bikers also love the Wild Boar Trail β Wilder Ranch Bike Path loop from Pineridge, a 26.9 miles (43.2 km) trail leading through coastal grasslands and redwood forests, often completed in about 3 hours 34 minutes.
- Mountain biking around Felton is defined by ancient redwood forests, diverse trail systems, and coastal views. The network offers options for different ability levels, from beginner-friendly paths to challenging technical rides.
- The routes in Felton are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 300 reviews. More than 2700 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore Felton's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
5.0
(4)
188
riders
17.7km
01:33
320m
320m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(10)
125
riders
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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5.0
(3)
36
riders
61.8km
05:32
1,110m
1,110m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
5.0
(1)
18
riders
12.2km
01:09
210m
210m
The Indian Creek Railroad Bridge β Fremont Tree loop offers a rugged mountain biking experience through the majestic redwood forests near Felton, California. You'll encounter diverse terrain, from challenging climbs to technical descents, all while surrounded by towering trees and the serene beauty of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The highlight of this ride is undoubtedly the chance to see the historic Indian Creek Railroad Bridge and the massive Fremont Tree, a hollow redwood you can actually step inside.
This difficult 7.6-mile (12.2 km) route, with its 692 feet (211 metres) of elevation gain, is designed for advanced riders and typically takes about 1 hour and 9 minutes. Be ready for a workout; some sections may require you to push your bike. The mild coastal climate means you can enjoy this trail year-round, but always check conditions, especially after rain, as trails can become muddy or rutted.
This loop is a fantastic way to explore the natural and historical landmarks of the Felton area, combining the thrill of mountain biking with the awe-inspiring scale of the redwood ecosystem. It's a perfect choice if you're looking for a demanding ride that rewards you with unique sights and a true sense of adventure in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.
5.0
(8)
27
riders
26.5km
02:39
660m
660m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This is a coastal redwood, not a Sequoia redwood which is a different species found inland.
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Today, this area is a protected stand of Redwoods, but as you walk along the trail you are bound to come across the remnants of a once booming industry based on the cutting and selling of these magnificent trees.
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This overlook is worth the short detour off the trail. It's a great place to stop and enjoy the views. This is a pretty popular spot so be prepared for a crowd.
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The Indian Creek Railroad Bridge was once part of a rail system used to transport lumber and goods from the surrounding redwood forests. Today, it stands as a reminder of the regionβs industrial past. While the bridge is not accessible to pedestrians, it can be viewed from nearby trails.
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This area is a steep, gullied region containing numerous springs and seeps (areas where water oozes slowly out of the ground). A diverse range of wildlife, including bobcats, cows, eagles, and squirrels, can be found here.
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The Wilder Ranch Bike Path is an entirely paved trail away from the nearby busy highway. The path helps connect Wilder Ranch State Park to Santa Cruz and is open to runners and walkers, too.
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This area is a steep, gullied region containing numerous springs and seeps (areas where water oozes slowly out of the ground). A diverse range of wildlife, including bobcats, cows, eagles, and squirrels, can be found here.
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The park originally had agricultural functions, but has since been returned to nature for all to enjoy. You have excellent views of the ocean, and this all along the way.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are there in Felton?
Felton offers a wide variety of mountain biking experiences, with over 70 distinct routes available. These trails cater to different skill levels, from easy rides through redwood groves to more challenging paths with significant elevation changes.
What is the best time of year to go mountain biking in Felton?
Felton is known for its year-round riding conditions, making it an excellent destination for mountain biking in any season. The mild climate of the Santa Cruz Mountains generally allows for comfortable riding throughout the year.
Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Felton?
Yes, Felton has several beginner-friendly mountain bike trails. An excellent option is the Felix the Cat, Chinquapin, Pipe Dream and Magic Carpet Loop, which is an easy 4-mile (6.4 km) route winding through redwood groves, offering a flowing and enjoyable ride. The Emma McCrary Trail in Pogonip Park is also noted as a fantastic beginner-friendly route, designed with 'flow' elements like berms and rollers.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Felton's mountain bike trails?
The terrain around Felton is incredibly diverse, characterized by ancient redwood forests, varied trail systems, and scenic landscapes. You'll encounter towering trees, gentle climbs, and descents, with some trails featuring coastal grasslands and views of the Pacific Ocean. Trails are generally well-maintained, offering a mix of natural surfaces and flow-style sections.
Are there challenging mountain bike trails for experienced riders in Felton?
Absolutely. For advanced riders seeking a challenge, the region offers trails with technical features. While not directly in Felton, the Soquel Demonstration Forest Flow Trail in Nisene Marks State Park is a highly-rated, challenging option known for its technical drops, berms, jumps, and rollers, though it requires long climbs. Within Felton's network, there are 7 difficult routes for those looking for a more intense experience.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the mountain bike trails in Felton?
Felton's trails are rich with natural beauty. You can ride through majestic redwood forests, including areas like Cathedral Redwoods, where trees form perfect circles. Other notable natural features include the San Lorenzo River, diverse habitats with unique flora, and stunning coastal views from trails like those in Wilder Ranch State Park. You might also encounter landmarks such as the Fremont Tree or Needle Rock.
Are there any loop trails for mountain biking in Felton?
Yes, many of Felton's mountain bike routes are designed as loops, offering varied scenery without retracing your path. Examples include the Cathedral Redwoods β Chuck Beebe Scenic Bench loop from Felton Roaring Camp, a moderate 12-mile (19.3 km) route, and the longer Wild Boar Trail β Wilder Ranch Bike Path loop from Pineridge, which covers 26.9 miles (43.2 km).
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about the trails in Felton?
The mountain biking community highly rates the trails in Felton, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 300 reviews. Reviewers often praise the majestic redwood forests, the diverse and well-maintained trail networks, and the variety of options catering to all skill levels, from beginner-friendly paths to challenging technical rides.
Are there family-friendly mountain bike routes in Felton?
Yes, Felton offers routes suitable for families. The easy-rated trails, such as the Felix the Cat, Chinquapin, Pipe Dream and Magic Carpet Loop, are great for families looking for a less strenuous ride through beautiful scenery. The Emma McCrary Trail is also highlighted as a fantastic beginner-friendly option that winds through forests and crosses wooden bridges, suitable for a family outing.
Where can I find parking for mountain bike trails in Felton?
While specific parking locations for all trails are not detailed here, many trailheads in and around Felton, especially within state parks like Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and Wilder Ranch State Park, offer designated parking areas. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for trailhead access and parking information before your ride.
What are some longer mountain bike routes available in the Felton area?
For those looking for longer rides, Felton has several options. The Wild Boar Trail β Wilder Ranch Bike Path loop from Pineridge is a substantial 26.9-mile (43.2 km) trail. Another longer route is the Four Mile Beach β Needle Rock loop from Empire Grade & Smith Grade, covering 35.7 miles (57.5 km) with coastal views.
Can I access coastal views from mountain bike trails near Felton?
Yes, some mountain bike trails near Felton offer stunning coastal views. For example, the Wilder Ridge Loop in Wilder Ranch State Park climbs through coastal grasslands, providing panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean. The Four Mile Beach β Needle Rock loop also provides opportunities to experience the coastline.
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