The best cycling routes in Santa Cruz County

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.

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.

Cycle the difficult 26.9-mile Bonny Doon Beach loop in Santa Cruz, gaining 2329 feet through redwood forests and scenic roads.

Challenge yourself on the 31.4-mile Aptos Creek and Buzzard Lagoon Loop, a difficult touring cycling route through redwoods and orchards.

Cycle the moderate 9.0-mile Engelsman Loop Trail in Wilder Ranch State Park, enjoying coastal views and diverse terrain.

The Soquel-Aptos Creek Loop offers a challenging yet rewarding touring cycling experience through the lush redwood forests and along Aptos Creek in Santa Cruz County. You'll navigate wide dirt and gravel roads, transitioning from initial bumpy sections to smoother paths, all while tackling significant climbs that lead to stunning vistas like the View of the Santa Cruz Coast from Sand Point Overlook. This route is rated difficult, making it ideal for cyclists seeking a substantial workout.

Planning your ride on the Soquel-Aptos Creek Loop requires a bit of preparation. The trail is popular year-round, so you might encounter other users. Remember there's a day-use fee to enter The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, which hosts a large portion of the route. Given the 2321 feet (707 metres) of elevation gain over 30.7 miles (49.5 km), ensure you're well-hydrated and fueled for the estimated 3 hours and 52 minutes of cycling.

Beyond the physical challenge, the Soquel-Aptos Creek Loop is rich in history and natural beauty. You'll cycle past historical plaques marking old logging sites, and the area is known for its vibrant wildflowers in spring. The route also provides access to the broader Soquel Demonstration State Forest trail system, offering even more advanced touring cycling routes for those looking to extend their adventure in this scenic part of California.

The Pacific Coast Bike Route: Seacliff and La Selva Beach Loop offers a delightful spin along the California coast, blending expansive ocean views with glimpses of charming local areas. As you cycle, you'll pass iconic spots like Seacliff State Beach and Manresa State Beach, where you can pause to take in the Pacific. The route also ventures into the La Selva Beach region, providing a mix of coastal bluffs, woodlands, and even some farmlands, making for a varied and engaging ride.

This moderate touring cycling route covers 18.1 miles (29.1 km) with about 934 feet (285 metres) of elevation gain, and you can expect to complete it in roughly 1 hour and 48 minutes. It's a great option for those looking for a scenic outing without overly challenging climbs. The best time to bike the Seacliff La Selva Beach area is typically during spring or fall for pleasant weather, and parking is usually available near Seacliff State Beach.

This particular loop is a highlight for touring cyclists in the La Selva Beach area, known for its accessibility and stunning scenery. It's a more approachable segment of the globally renowned Pacific Coast Bike Route, which is famous for its rugged cliffs and sandy beaches. This route provides a taste of that grandeur in a manageable package, making it a popular choice for experiencing the natural features of the Santa Cruz coastline.

Cycle the easy 9.1-mile Capitola Village loop, enjoying colorful Venetian cottages, ocean views, and charming shops along the coast.

Cycle a challenging 13.7-mile loop through Wilder Ranch State Park, featuring coastal views, grasslands, and historical ranch buildings.