The best traffic-free bike rides in Santa Barbara County
4.5
(136)
7,113
riders
43
rides
Road cycling in Santa Barbara County is characterized by a diverse landscape, featuring the challenging ascents of the Santa Ynez Mountains, the expansive Pacific coastline, and the rolling vineyards of the Santa Ynez Valley. This region offers varied terrain, from demanding mountain roads with significant elevation gains to more relaxed coastal paths and scenic country backroads. The geography provides a mix of environments for no traffic road cycling routes, including forested areas and open agricultural lands.
Best no traffic road…
Last updated: April 24, 2026
2.0
(2)
163
riders
64.4km
04:10
1,330m
1,330m
Embark on the Figueroa Mountain loop, a challenging road cycling route that takes you through the diverse landscapes of Los Padres National Forest. This difficult ride spans 40.0 miles (64.4…
37
riders
94.7km
04:41
1,140m
1,140m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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2
riders
127km
05:50
1,280m
1,280m
This difficult 78.9-mile road cycling loop through the Santa Ynez Valley offers 4196 feet of elevation gain and takes nearly six hours.
5.0
(4)
320
riders
56.1km
03:37
1,440m
1,440m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
2.0
(2)
187
riders
67.3km
04:20
1,370m
1,370m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Santa Barbara County
Traffic-free bike rides in the San Rafael Mountains
Traffic-free bike rides in Los Padres National Forest
Traffic-free bike rides in the Santa Ynez Mountains
Traffic-free bike rides around Santa Barbara
Traffic-free bike rides around Solvang
Traffic-free bike rides around Los Olivos
Traffic-free bike rides around Santa Ynez
Traffic-free bike rides in the Sierra Madre Mountains
Traffic-free bike rides around Eastern Goleta Valley
Traffic-free bike rides in Los Flores Ranch Park
Other adventures in Santa Barbara County
Tips from the Community
It would be nice to time it with a morning rocket launch! Check out space launch schedule (monkey) app for schedule at Vandenberg.
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The Modoc Preserve trail winds through a lush urban watershed, following a seasonal stream shaded by sycamores and oaks. Tucked between neighborhoods in Santa Barbara, this quiet green corridor offers a glimpse of the area's natural ecology, including native grasses and wetland plants.
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As you ascend the Figueroa Mountain Road Climb West, prepare for a visual feast that makes every pedal stroke worthwhile. You'll be treated to increasingly expansive views unfolding across the rolling Santa Ynez Valley, with its patchwork of vineyards and ranchlands. Look out for the distinct San Rafael Mountains rising dramatically around you as you climb higher into the Los Padres National Forest. Highlights include the breathtaking vistas from the upper sections, where the sheer scale of the wilderness becomes apparent, and on clear days, you might even glimpse distant ridges and the unique chaparral-covered landscape that defines this beautiful and rugged part of California.
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Tackling the legendary climb via Old San Marcos Pass Road and then Painted Cave Road near Santa Barbara rewards you with stunning coastal and mountain views, but demands a massive physical effort on brutally steep gradients. You'll climb steeply initially on Old San Marcos Pass Road which will see you climbing around 6-8% before turning onto the infamous Painted Cave Road for the main challenge. Prepare for an incredibly intense final 1-2 miles on Painted Cave, where the average gradient surges to well over 12-15%, featuring sustained ramps that hit around 20% – this section is a true 'wall' requiring your absolute lowest gears and sheer determination. You'll summit high in the Santa Ynez Mountains and enjoy the unfolding views over Goleta and the Pacific Ocean.
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This is an epic road to ride on. By no means an easy one, but the sweeping views of the San Rafael Wilderness Area make up for the effort.
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Nice view over Los Padres National Forest. The climb up to the peak is challenging, but it is worth the effort for the great vistas.
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Ignite your mind at MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation, Santa Barbara's unique destination for hands-on scientific and creative experiences. Located in the thriving Funk Zone neighborhood, MOXI invites kids, families and curious minds of all ages to explore more than 17,000 square feet of immersive activities. From the Giant Guitar, where you can study your favorite riffs, to the Wind Column Workshop, where you can perform test flights, MOXI's interactive approach to science, technology and art inspires experimentation and discovery.
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MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation, is a beautiful new venue in Santa Barbara, California. This interactive museum offers a private event rental service - ideal for parties, business events, weddings, engagements, rehearsal dinners and more
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no traffic road cycling routes are available in Santa Barbara County?
Santa Barbara County offers a wide selection of no traffic road cycling routes, with over 40 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 10 easy, 18 moderate, and 15 difficult rides.
Are there easy, beginner-friendly no traffic road cycling routes in Santa Barbara County?
Yes, Santa Barbara County has several easy, beginner-friendly options for no traffic road cycling. The Pacific coastline offers relaxed rides like the Cabrillo Boulevard bike path and Obern Trail, which are ideal for casual riders and families looking for scenic, car-free experiences along the waterfront.
What are some challenging no traffic road cycling routes for experienced riders?
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Santa Ynez Mountains provide demanding climbs. Routes like the La Cumbre Peak – Gibraltar Road loop from Santa Barbara are known for significant elevation gain. Another difficult option is the Figueroa Mountain loop, which covers over 64 km with substantial climbing through mountainous terrain.
Can I find loop routes for no traffic road cycling in Santa Barbara County?
Yes, many no traffic road cycling routes in Santa Barbara County are designed as loops. For instance, the Foxen Canyon Loop offers a scenic ride through wine country, and the Figueroa Mountain Road – Dan Henry Bike Route loop from Ballard provides another challenging circular option.
What is the best time of year for no traffic road cycling in Santa Barbara County?
Santa Barbara County enjoys over 300 days of sunshine annually, making it an excellent destination for road cycling year-round. The consistent pleasant weather ensures comfortable riding conditions for most of the year, though spring and fall often offer ideal temperatures.
Are there family-friendly no traffic road cycling options?
Absolutely. The coastal paths, such as the Cabrillo Boulevard bike path and Obern Trail, are excellent family-friendly options. These paved routes offer easy, scenic rides along the Pacific coastline, perfect for all ages and skill levels.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on these no traffic routes?
You can expect a diverse range of landscapes. Routes traverse the challenging Santa Ynez Mountains, offer relaxed rides along the Pacific coastline, and wind through the picturesque vineyards and ranches of the Santa Ynez Valley. You'll encounter everything from ocean views to oak-studded hills.
Are there any attractions or points of interest along these routes?
Many routes offer access to various attractions. You might pass by the historic Stearns Wharf, explore the Danish-inspired town of Solvang, or enjoy the natural beauty around Andrea Park Bird Refuge. The region is rich with landmarks and natural features.
Where can I find parking for no traffic road cycling routes in Santa Barbara County?
Parking availability varies by route. For coastal paths like the Cabrillo Boulevard bike path, parking is often available near beaches and parks. For routes in the Santa Ynez Valley or mountain areas, look for designated parking lots at trailheads or in nearby towns like Ballard or Santa Barbara, depending on your starting point.
What do other cyclists say about road cycling in Santa Barbara County?
The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Santa Barbara County, with an average score of 4.5 stars from 139 ratings. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse terrain, from challenging mountain ascents to serene vineyard routes, and the stunning coastal views that make for memorable rides.
Are there any less crowded or hidden gem no traffic road cycling routes?
While popular routes can see more traffic, many of the vineyard routes in the Santa Ynez Valley, such as those traversing Happy Canyon, Zaca, and Alisos, offer peaceful country backroads that are generally less crowded. These areas provide a tranquil cycling experience through beautiful agricultural landscapes.
Most popular routes in Santa Barbara County
Most popular attractions in Santa Barbara County
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