Thornewood Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
Thornewood Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
The best gravel rides in Thornewood Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
5.0
(1)
37
riders
12
rides
Gravel biking in Thornewood Open Space Preserve (Closed Area) is not permitted, as bicycling is explicitly prohibited within the preserve. The area, managed by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, is a 167-acre regional park in the Santa Cruz Mountains. It features forested hills with a mix of second-growth redwood, Douglas fir, oak, and madrone woodlands. Notable natural features include Schilling Lake, surrounded by redwoods, and diverse plant life.
Best gravel bike trails in Thornewood Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
β¦Last updated: August 23, 2026
4
riders
48.2km
03:59
1,300m
1,300m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
13.9km
01:13
440m
440m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
riders
48.0km
03:34
1,170m
1,170m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
riders
67.8km
04:52
1,460m
1,460m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Thornewood Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
Tips from the Community
Borel Hill is my favorite place to watch spring flowers. The western slope near ancient oaks (5-10min west of Borel Hill) are covered with orange California Poppies and purple flowers starting in April. Borel Hill itself peaks around mid May and has a wide variety of flowers. The show lasts only a few weeks until end of May. The peak time and flower intensity varies from year to year, so come several times between April and May. There is small summit NW of Borel Hill and a narrow dirt trail leads you to a rock within 2 min. The rock is big enough for 2-3 to sit on. On a sunny day, the rock is nice warm even if the air is cold. Good views on the ocean and the Bay.
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Didnβt OLR used to turn into Dirt before reaching Skyline? Is it all pavement now?? Scott
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Woodside Store was built back in the 1850s by two pioneers who came to California for the gold rush. At the time it was the only stagecoach stop between San Francisco and Santa Clara, and it carried all the essential items that travelers riding between cities might need. The store has been restored, inside and out, to look exactly as it did centuries ago. You can call the museum ahead of your trip to book tours.
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Black Mountain, situated on Monte Bello Ridge, is a popular destination for hikers and mountain bikers. With an elevation of 2,812 feet, it's easy to understand why. From the summit, the views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and Silicon Valley are breathtaking.
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Purisima Creek Trailhead features a fence separating the trail from the road and a small pit toilet at the base. Parking is available just 250 feet southeast along Skyline Boulevard. This trail offers everything, from stunning views to towering redwoods, fern-filled canyons, and creeks. Riding through the redwoods is a unique experience.
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Boronda Lake features a couple scenic picnic areas with piers out over the water. A small arched bridge leads out to Sunfish Island from a trail on the side of the lake opposite the road. This is great place from which to enjoy beautiful Foothills Nature Preserve.
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Old La Honda Rd downhill video: https://youtu.be/icnBpBZQ8gE?si=xYovaH-Nr8llwLEM
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The Woodside Store, also known as Tripp Store, is located at 3300 Tripp Road at Kings Mountain Road in Woodside, San Mateo County, California. It has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1985 and was designated a California Historical Landmark in 1949. The store's history dates back to October 1849 when Matthias Alfred Parkhurst purchased land in the area and began a shingle-making and lumber business with his partners, including Robert Orville Tripp. The store was established in 1853, originally serving the needs of lumbermen and settlers during the Gold Rush era. Dr. Tripp became the sole operator of the store after Parkhurst's death in 1863, running it until his own death in 1909. He was a well-known figure in Woodside, holding various public offices. The San Mateo County Historical Association acquired the store in the 1940s, and it was restored to its 1880s condition by 1994.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is gravel biking permitted within Thornewood Open Space Preserve?
No, gravel biking is explicitly prohibited within Thornewood Open Space Preserve. The preserve is managed by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, and bicycling is not allowed on its trails. It is primarily designated for hiking and equestrian use.
What activities are allowed in Thornewood Open Space Preserve?
Thornewood Open Space Preserve is open to the public for hiking and equestrian activities. Visitors can enjoy its serene natural setting, diverse woodlands, and features like Schilling Lake. For more information about the preserve, you can visit its Wikipedia page.
Are there any gravel biking alternatives near Thornewood Open Space Preserve?
Yes, while biking is not allowed within the preserve itself, the surrounding area offers several excellent gravel biking routes. These routes often feature varied terrain, climbs, and forested areas, providing a similar natural experience. You can find options like the Black Mountain β Arastradero Lake loop from Portola Valley or the Old La Honda Road β Portola Road loop from Portola Valley.
How many gravel biking routes are available in the region surrounding Thornewood Open Space Preserve?
There are over 10 gravel biking routes available in the wider region around Thornewood Open Space Preserve. These routes cater to various skill levels, from moderate to difficult, and offer diverse landscapes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike routes near Thornewood Open Space Preserve?
Gravel bike routes in the vicinity of Thornewood Open Space Preserve are characterized by rolling hills, varied terrain, and significant elevation changes. Many routes lead through beautiful forested areas with a mix of redwood, Douglas fir, oak, and madrone woodlands.
Are there challenging gravel bike routes nearby for experienced riders?
Absolutely. For experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, routes like the Black Mountain β Arastradero Lake loop from Portola Valley, which covers nearly 30 miles with significant elevation gain, or the Portola Road β Old La Honda Road loop from Portola Valley, a 40-mile journey, offer demanding rides.
Can I find moderate gravel bike routes in the area?
Yes, there are moderate options available. The Old La Honda Road β Portola Road loop from Portola Valley is a popular moderate route, spanning about 8.6 miles and featuring varied terrain and climbs suitable for those looking for a less strenuous ride.
What are some notable natural features I might encounter on nearby gravel routes or within the preserve (if hiking)?
While biking, you'll experience diverse woodlands. If you choose to hike within Thornewood Open Space Preserve, you can explore Schilling Lake, a tranquil body of water surrounded by redwoods, and meander through forests featuring madrone, black oak, and Douglas fir. Some areas also offer glimpses of the southern San Francisco Bay and the Diablo Range.
What do other gravel bikers say about the routes in this region?
The gravel biking routes in the region are highly regarded by the komoot community. Over 20 gravel bikers have explored these trails, often praising the varied terrain, challenging climbs, and the scenic beauty of the forested areas.
Are there any loop options for gravel biking near Thornewood Open Space Preserve?
Yes, many of the gravel biking routes in the area are designed as loops, offering a complete and immersive experience. Examples include the Old La Honda Road β West Old La Honda Road loop from Portola Valley and the Adobe Creek β Boronda Lake loop from Portola Valley.
Is 'Old La Honda Road' a common feature in nearby gravel biking routes?
Yes, 'Old La Honda Road' is a well-known and frequently incorporated segment in several popular gravel biking routes in the vicinity. It's often part of loops that offer varied terrain and scenic views, such as the Old La Honda Road β Portola Road loop from Portola Valley.
Most popular routes in Thornewood Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
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