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May 1, 2019
Cycling
February 13, 2024
Cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near West Cliff Cycleway
158
riders
64.1km
03:54
550m
550m
The Greyhound Rock Beach loop offers a spectacular touring cycling experience along the Santa Cruz coast, blending demanding climbs with breathtaking ocean vistas. You'll traverse dramatic cliffs, expansive sandy shorelines, and encounter massive offshore rock formations, including the iconic Greyhound Rock itself. The route provides a dynamic journey, moving from well-known paths like the West Cliff Cycleway to more secluded coastal stretches.
This is a difficult route, spanning 39.8 miles (64.1 km) with 1801 feet (549 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 53 minutes. It's best suited for cyclists with very good fitness levels, as some segments may be unpaved and challenging. The path directly to Greyhound Rock Beach can be steep and uneven, so plan accordingly if you intend to access the beach itself.
Notable for combining a rigorous cycling challenge with some of California's most stunning scenery, this loop integrates sections of the Pacific Coast Bike Route and the Coastal Rail Trail. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including potential whale sightings, as you pass through diverse landscapes from coastal bluffs to unique geological formations.
4.5
(2)
93
riders
19.7km
01:08
60m
60m
The Santa Cruz West Cliff and Riverwalk Loop offers an easy touring cycling experience that truly showcases the best of Santa Cruz. You'll start by cruising along the stunning West Cliff Drive, where the Pacific Ocean views are endless and you might spot surfers at Steamer Lane or even marine life. The route then transitions to the Santa Cruz Riverwalk, following the San Lorenzo River through downtown, providing a pleasant change of scenery with urban nature and tree-lined paths. It's a paved, mostly flat ride, perfect for a relaxed outing.
This 12.3-mile (19.7 km) loop, with only 184 feet (56 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 7 minutes to complete, making it accessible for most riders. While the West Cliff Drive section can get crowded with pedestrians and other cyclists, the Riverwalk offers a smoother, less congested experience. You'll need to dismount your bike when passing through the busy Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk area, which connects the two main sections of the loop.
Beyond the scenic ride, the loop connects you to several key Santa Cruz landmarks. You'll pass the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, housed in the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse, and reach Natural Bridges State Beach, famous for its sandstone arch and tide pools. The San Lorenzo Trestle bike-ped bridge, part of the future Coastal Rail Trail, is also a notable feature, highlighting the area's commitment to cycling infrastructure.
5.0
(2)
33
riders
43.3km
02:58
710m
710m
Cycle the difficult 26.9-mile Bonny Doon Beach loop in Santa Cruz, gaining 2329 feet through redwood forests and scenic roads.
Details
Informations
Distance 152 m
Downhill 0 m
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