The best gravel rides in Thornewood Open Space Preserve
5.0
(1)
41
riders
12
rides
Gravel biking in Thornewood Open Space Preserve, while not permitted within the preserve itself, refers to routes in the surrounding area that offer diverse terrain. The region features varied forest environments, including second-growth Douglas fir and redwood forests, alongside oak and madrone trees. While the preserve is known for accessible hiking and horseback riding trails around Schilling Lake, the broader area provides gravel biking opportunities with elevation changes and natural features. These routes often traverse areas with mixed tree canopiesβ¦
Last updated: October 15, 2026
5
riders
48.2km
04:01
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.
5
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
riders
48.2km
03:36
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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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
Can I go gravel biking inside Thornewood Open Space Preserve?
No, bicycles are explicitly prohibited within Thornewood Open Space Preserve itself. The gravel biking routes discussed in this guide are located in the surrounding area, offering diverse terrain and scenic views near the preserve.
How many gravel bike routes are available in the Thornewood Open Space Preserve region?
There are 11 gravel bike routes available in the region surrounding Thornewood Open Space Preserve. These routes offer a variety of challenges, from moderate climbs to more demanding, longer rides.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails near Thornewood Open Space Preserve?
The gravel bike trails in the Thornewood Open Space Preserve region feature rolling hills, forested sections with diverse tree canopies including Douglas fir, redwood, oak, and madrone, and open stretches. You'll encounter varying elevation profiles, from moderate climbs to significant ascents.
Are there any family-friendly gravel biking options in the area?
While the preserve itself is not suitable for biking, the surrounding area offers a range of routes. For a moderate option that might be suitable for families with some biking experience, consider the Old La Honda Road β Portola Road loop from Portola Valley, which is 8.6 miles long.
What is a challenging gravel bike route in the Thornewood Open Space Preserve region?
For a challenging ride, the Portola Road β Old La Honda Road loop from Portola Valley is a difficult 40.7-mile trail that takes nearly 6 hours to complete and features significant elevation gain through varied forest and open areas.
Are there any long-distance gravel bike loops available?
Yes, for a longer ride, the Portola Road β Old La Honda Road loop from Portola Valley covers 40.7 miles (65.6 km) and is a popular choice for experienced gravel bikers. Another option is the Black Mountain β Arastradero Lake loop from Portola Valley, which is 29.9 miles (48.2 km).
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in this region?
The region generally offers pleasant conditions for gravel biking during spring and fall when temperatures are mild. Summer can be warm, and winter might bring rain, affecting trail conditions. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
What do other gravel bikers say about the routes near Thornewood Open Space Preserve?
The routes in the Thornewood Open Space Preserve region are highly rated by the komoot community. More than 20 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the challenging climbs and scenic forested sections.
Are there any routes that offer views of lakes or other natural features?
While Thornewood Open Space Preserve itself features Schilling Lake, which is accessible via hiking trails, the gravel biking routes in the surrounding area traverse diverse landscapes. For example, the Black Mountain β Arastradero Lake loop from Portola Valley includes Arastradero Lake, offering scenic views along the way.
What is a good gravel bike route for someone looking for a moderate challenge?
The Old La Honda Road β Portola Road loop from Portola Valley is an excellent moderate option. This 8.6-mile (13.9 km) path includes a notable climb and descent through the local landscape, providing a good workout without being overly strenuous.
Are there any gravel routes that explore the eastern slopes of the Santa Cruz Mountains?
Many of the gravel routes in this region, including the Old La Honda Road β West Old La Honda Road loop from Portola Valley, traverse the eastern slopes of the Santa Cruz Mountains. These routes offer varied elevation profiles and views characteristic of the area.
Most popular routes in Thornewood Open Space Preserve
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