The best gravel rides around San Martin

Gravel biking around San Martin offers diverse terrain, characterized by rolling hills, wooded sections, and open ranch landscapes. You'll encounter varied surfaces, from compacted dirt and gravel roads to some paved sections that connect trails, providing both endurance challenges and picturesque routes.

While many routes are challenging, the Harvey Bear Trail – Valley Oak Trail loop from San Martin is a moderate option. This 11.9-mile (19.1 km) trail leads through Harvey Bear Ranch County Park and is often completed in about 2 hours 11 minutes, making it suitable for those looking for a less strenuous ride.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Coe Ranch Headquarters – China Hole Trail loop from Morgan Hill is a difficult 45.4-mile (73.0 km) trail exploring the rugged landscapes of Henry W. Coe State Park. Another demanding option is the Braen Canyon – Wilson Peak loop from Hunting Hollow Trailhead, a difficult 32.6-mile (52.4 km) path featuring significant elevation gain.

Yes, the region offers several scenic spots. You can find beautiful views at View of Chesbro Reservoir and Coyote Lake Overlook. Additionally, the trails often pass by significant bodies of water like Uvas Reservoir and Chesbro Reservoir, providing picturesque backdrops for your ride.

The routes in San Martin are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Many riders praise the varied terrain, from rolling hills to wooded parklands, and the options available for different ability levels.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops. For instance, the Mount Madonna County Park loop via Redwood Retreat Road offers a 21 km difficult ride. The Harvey Bear Trail – Valley Oak Trail loop from San Martin is a popular moderate loop.

Given the region's climate, spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking, with milder temperatures. Summer can be hot, especially on exposed ranchlands, while winter might bring rain, affecting trail conditions. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

The trails through Henry W. Coe State Park, such as the Coe Ranch Headquarters – China Hole Trail loop from Hunting Hollow Trailhead, traverse remote and natural areas. These environments, with their diverse landscapes of wooded sections and open ranchlands, provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. Keep an eye out for deer, various bird species, and other native animals.

Many of the trails originate from established trailheads or parks, which typically offer parking facilities. For example, routes like the Braen Canyon – Wilson Peak loop often start from designated areas like the Hunting Hollow Trailhead, where parking is usually available. Always check specific route details for recommended parking locations.

While the more remote trails, especially those in Henry W. Coe State Park, might not have immediate access to amenities, routes closer to San Martin or Morgan Hill will have options. It's always a good idea to plan your route and carry sufficient water and snacks, especially for longer rides.

The elevation gain varies significantly depending on the route's difficulty. Moderate trails like the Harvey Bear Trail – Valley Oak Trail loop have around 420 meters of ascent. More difficult routes, such as the Coe Ranch Headquarters – China Hole Trail loop from Morgan Hill, can feature over 1400 meters of elevation gain, offering substantial climbing challenges.