The best cycling routes in Santa Barbara County

Santa Barbara County offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 170 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 69 easy, 57 moderate, and 45 difficult trails.

The region provides diverse terrain, from challenging mountain ascents in the Santa Ynez Mountains to serene coastal paths along the Pacific Ocean. You'll also find routes winding through oak-studded valleys and vineyards, offering a mix of landscapes for every cyclist.

The touring cycling routes in Santa Barbara County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from challenging mountain climbs to scenic coastal rides, and the well-maintained paths.

Santa Barbara County's mild climate, with over 300 days of sunshine annually, makes it an excellent year-round destination for touring cycling. Spring and fall offer particularly pleasant temperatures, but even winter provides suitable conditions for riding.

Yes, Santa Barbara County has numerous easy routes perfect for beginners or family outings. One popular option is the Obern Trail Loop, which is an easy 19.8-mile (31.9 km) ride with minimal elevation gain, offering a relaxed experience.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the Santa Ynez Mountains offer significant elevation gains and spectacular views. Routes like the La Cumbre Peak loop, a difficult 34.9-mile (56.1 km) trail, or the Gibraltar Road loop, a difficult 29.4-mile (47.3 km) path, are known for their demanding climbs.

Many touring cycling routes in Santa Barbara County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Hope Ranch Loop, a moderate 19.1-mile (30.8 km) ride, and the Santa Barbara Discovery Loop, a moderate 17.7-mile (28.5 km) route.

Santa Barbara County's routes offer numerous scenic viewpoints. Higher elevations like La Cumbre Peak provide sweeping vistas of the South Coast and the Channel Islands. Coastal routes, such as the Coast Bicycle Route: Carpinteria Loop, offer continuous ocean views, while rides through the Santa Ynez Valley showcase oak-studded vineyards.

Yes, Santa Barbara County features several beautiful waterfalls. You can explore Nojoqui Falls County Park, home to Nojoqui Falls, which is a popular spot to visit. Other notable waterfalls include Tangerine Falls and Nojoqui Creek Falls.

Many cycling routes pass by significant landmarks. You can visit Stearns Wharf, California's oldest working wooden wharf, or admire the architecture of the Santa Barbara County Courthouse. The charming Danish village of Solvang is also a popular destination in the Santa Ynez Valley.

Absolutely. The Santa Ynez Valley is renowned for its wine country, and many routes wind through vineyards and offer opportunities for culinary stops. While specific cafes aren't listed for each route, the region's viticulture makes it ideal for combining cycling with visits to local wineries and eateries.

A great moderate option is the Santa Barbara Loop. This 22.9-mile (36.8 km) route offers a balanced ride with some elevation changes, providing a good workout without being overly strenuous, and showcases various aspects of the city and its surroundings.