The best cycling routes around Occidental

Occidental offers a diverse range of terrain for touring cyclists. You'll find majestic redwood forests providing shaded routes, stunning coastal views and rolling uplands near the Pacific Ocean, and paths that follow the Russian River. The picturesque Sonoma countryside also features rolling hills, small farms, and vineyards, ensuring a varied and engaging ride.

Yes, for those seeking a less strenuous ride, the West County Regional Trail is an excellent option. This mostly paved, 5.5-mile trail connects Sebastopol, Graton, and Forestville, offering views of farms, pastures, and vineyards, including an elevated boardwalk through the Atascadero Creek Ecological Reserve. It's built on a former railway line, making it relatively flat and suitable for families.

Experienced cyclists looking for a challenge will appreciate routes like Coleman Valley Road, known for its legendary climbs and significant elevation gain, leading to spectacular ocean views. The Occidental Loop is another option, a 17-mile route with considerable elevation gain focusing on less-trafficked back roads east of town, winding through redwood forests and charming, undulating terrain.

Absolutely. Occidental's proximity to the Pacific Ocean means many rides incorporate stunning coastal scenery. Routes such as Coleman Valley Road offer diverse landscapes, including open, rolling coastal uplands and an iconic climb up from Highway 1, providing great variety of scenery and ocean vistas.

Yes, the majestic redwood forests are a significant draw for cyclists in Occidental. Many routes, including sections of the Bohemian Highway and the Occidental Loop, wind through towering ancient trees, offering a tranquil and cool experience, especially on warmer days. The Grove of Old Trees, a 33-acre preserve, is also accessible for a peaceful, nature-focused experience.

Cycling through the redwood forests offers a cool and pleasant experience, especially on hot summer days. The region generally enjoys mild weather, but for specific seasonal conditions, it's always best to check local forecasts. Spring and fall often provide ideal temperatures for exploring the diverse landscapes.

The touring cycling routes around Occidental are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.38 stars from over 810 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from redwood forests to coastal paths and rolling hills, and the options available for different ability levels.

The Bohemian Highway is a very popular scenic route, offering beautiful descents and winding through redwood forests towards destinations like Monte Rio and Freestone. While some sections can be busy, careful timing can lead to enjoyable rides with gorgeous scenery. Other notable roads include Graton Road, Jonive Road, and Barnett Valley Road, which offer pleasant rides through varied terrain.

There are over 560 touring cycling routes available around Occidental, catering to a wide range of skill levels from easy to difficult. This extensive network ensures there's always a new adventure to discover.

Beyond cycling, Occidental offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore an extensive network of scenic hiking trails, experience thrilling ziplining through redwood forests, or visit unique botanical refuges like Western Hills Garden. The Occidental Arts & Ecology Center also features an 80-acre wildlands preserve.

While cycling, you'll encounter several natural features that define the region. Keep an eye out for the towering redwood trees in areas like the Grove of Old Trees, the rugged coastline and secluded coves of Sonoma Coast State Park if your route ventures west, and the picturesque Russian River, which many paths follow. The rolling hills, small farms, and vineyards also offer charming pastoral views.