The best MTB trails around Felton
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1,782
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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: October 11, 2026
6.43km
00:42
80m
290m
Pedal through the serene redwood forests of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park on the Felix the Cat, Chinquapin, Pipe Dream and Magic Carpet Loop, an easy mountain biking route that offers a delightful mix of singletrack and fire road. This 4.0-mile (6.4 km) loop, with a gentle 266 feet (81 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through lush scenery, including sections of the Chinquapin trail where you can pause at picnic tables for amazing views of the Wilder Ranch Coast and the Pacific Ocean. It's a perfect ride for nearly any fitness level, promising a relaxing experience in nature.
To plan your visit, head to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park near Felton, California. While the park is generally welcoming, it's a good idea to check for any current parking fees or specific permit requirements before you go. Arriving earlier in the morning is often best to secure parking, especially during busier times. This trail is suitable for year-round enjoyment, but always consult the local weather forecast to ensure optimal riding conditions.
This particular loop stands out for its accessibility and the varied terrain it covers within the park, making it a great introduction to mountain biking in the redwoods. Unlike some other trails sharing similar names, this specific Henry Cowell route is intentionally easy, focusing on scenic beauty rather than technical challenges. It's an excellent option if you're looking for a peaceful ride surrounded by ancient trees, offering a taste of the region's natural splendor without demanding advanced skills.
5.0
(2)
136
riders
14.8km
01:17
280m
280m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(10)
119
riders
42.0km
03:26
720m
720m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(13)
148
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
17
riders
33.7km
02:44
470m
470m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
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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Pretty much the entire trail passing through Four Mile Beach is up on the cliffside and offers expansive views, but this particular vantage point is worth taking a detour for.
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The main entrance into Wilder Dairy Cultural Preserve is off of Coast Road, while there is also a back entrance from the Bike Path. This historic ranch is owned by the state and has been preserved within the park's open space. The creamery is no longer in service, but there are restrooms, water fountains, and educational signs located here.
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Winding through lush greenery, this trail provides ample shade. With occasional narrow passages and rocky sections, it adds an intriguing touch to the rideβa journey through nature's captivating terrain.
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In East Slope Natural Reserve, explore an area boasting giant chinquapin and dwarf redwoods. Enjoy pleasant bike trails in this parcel, where possibilities abound for researching dwarf redwoods, soils, and forest springs.
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Perched along a scenic ridge in Santa Cruz, the Chuck Beebe Scenic Bench makes for the ideal pitstop to appreciate panoramic views while conquering the challenging singletrack on this popular mountain biking trail network. Take a breather at the bench to soak in vistas of the bay before the trail splits.
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Discovering artwork displayed on these water tanks along the trail is a unique and delightful experience. The water tanks are continually repainted, so you can always look forward to a pleasant surprise in the form of new artwork.
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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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