The best road cycling routes around Buellton
4.3
(19)
1,308
riders
32
rides
Road cycling routes around Buellton traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, expansive vineyards, and crisp oak groves within California's Santa Ynez Valley. The region offers varied terrain, from gradual inclines to steeper climbs, with views extending towards the San Rafael Mountains and into the Los Padres National Forest. Cyclists can expect mostly well-paved surfaces and quiet back roads, providing diverse challenges and scenic vistas.
Best road cycling routes around Buellton
- The most popular road cycling route is Foxen Canyon & Drum Canyon Road loop, a 45.5 miles (73.2 km) trail that takes 3 hours 40 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers scenic wine country views and varies in elevation gain, making it suitable for different fitness levels.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Santa Rosa Loop, a moderate 34.9 miles (56.2 km) path. This route features mostly well-paved surfaces and winds through flat valleys, horse ranches, farmlands, and hillside vineyards.
- Local road cyclists also love the Nojoqui Falls Loop, a 49.4 miles (79.5 km) trail leading through the diverse terrain of the Santa Ynez Valley, often completed in about 3 hours 34 minutes.
- Road cycling around Buellton is defined by rolling hills, vineyard-lined valleys, and mountain backdrops. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate rides through wine country to more challenging routes with significant elevation gain.
- The routes in Buellton are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 3.9 stars from over 13 reviews. More than 1000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Buellton's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
81
riders
73.2km
03:41
870m
870m
This moderate 45.5-mile road cycling loop through Foxen and Drum Canyons offers scenic wine country views near Solvang, California.
4.5
(2)
32
riders
56.2km
02:27
550m
550m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Sign up for free
4.0
(1)
2
riders
79.5km
03:35
870m
870m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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.
4.3
(3)
87
riders
45.3km
02:07
350m
350m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Buellton
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.
0
0
This winery is in a fantastic location with beautifully landscaped gardens, a lovely outdoor patio and a large grassy area where visitors are welcome to bring a picnic lunch and unwind beneath the trees. After a long ride, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy a relaxing wine-tasting session and enjoy the views.
0
0
We stop in Solvang and immediately feel like we are in Denmark, as the picturesque town is full of Danish culture, delicious cuisine and scenic scenery. Solvang, California (population 5,286) is nestled in the Santa Ynez Valley wine region on California's central coast. The town's name means "sunny fields" in Danish. Solvang was founded in 1911 when a group of Danish Americans bought 9,000 acres of the former Jonata Ranch. To preserve and promote Danish culture, the founders built Atterdag College in 1914 and Bethania Lutheran Church in 1928.
3
0
We stop in Solvang and immediately feel like we are in Denmark, as the picturesque town is full of Danish culture, delicious cuisine and scenic scenery. Solvang, California (population 5,286) is nestled in the Santa Ynez Valley wine region on California's central coast. The town's name means "sunny fields" in Danish. Solvang was founded in 1911 when a group of Danish Americans bought 9,000 acres of the former Jonata Ranch. To preserve and promote Danish culture, the founders built Atterdag College in 1914 and Bethania Lutheran Church in 1928.
3
0
Going north to south it starts with a short step climb (about 9~10% at times) and then has a long descent towards Los Olivos. At its northern end it intersects with the Foxen Canyon Rd going past some wineries towards Sisquoc, and the Zaca Station Rd that would take you back to CA154 and Los Olivos.
0
0
This is the only one I came across: a bike path separate from the Highway, covering a good part from Santa Ynez to Solvang. A recommendation compared to riding along the main road.
0
0
Cycleway that runs parallel, but separate, from Mission Drive. Though it is only a short stretch, I recommend it compared to riding on the highway.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available in Buellton?
Buellton offers over 30 road cycling routes, catering to a range of abilities. You'll find everything from moderate rides through wine country to more challenging routes with significant elevation gain.
What kind of terrain can I expect when road cycling around Buellton?
Road cycling around Buellton features a diverse landscape of rolling hills, expansive vineyards, and crisp oak groves within the Santa Ynez Valley. Routes offer varied terrain, from gradual inclines to steeper climbs, with scenic views extending towards the San Rafael Mountains and into the Los Padres National Forest. Most surfaces are well-paved, and many roads are quiet.
Are there any challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders?
Yes, Buellton offers several challenging routes. For a significant climb with rewarding views, consider the Figueroa Mountain Road Climb, known for its substantial elevation gain and vistas across the Santa Ynez Valley. Another option is the Foxen Canyon & Santa Rosa Road loop, which is classified as difficult and covers over 127 km with considerable elevation.
Which routes offer the best wine country views?
Many routes wind through the scenic Santa Ynez Valley wine country. The Foxen Canyon & Drum Canyon Road loop is particularly renowned for its picturesque wine country views. Foxen Canyon Road itself is celebrated as one of Central California's most scenic roads.
Are there any loop routes for road cycling in Buellton?
Yes, Buellton features several excellent loop routes. Popular options include the Foxen Canyon & Drum Canyon Road loop, the Santa Rosa Loop, and the Nojoqui Falls Loop, all of which provide diverse scenery and varied distances.
What are some interesting landmarks or points of interest along the road cycling routes?
While cycling, you can pass through or near charming areas like Solvang, a Danish-themed village. Some routes utilize scenic roads such as Santa Rosa Road and Drum Canyon Road, which are attractions in themselves due to their quiet nature and beautiful surroundings.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Buellton?
Buellton benefits from year-round sunshine and a temperate climate, making it suitable for cycling throughout most of the year. Starting rides in the early morning is often recommended for cooler temperatures and lighter traffic, especially during warmer months.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Buellton?
The road cycling routes in Buellton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.9 stars from over 13 reviews. Cyclists often praise the picturesque wine country vistas, the varied terrain from gentle rolls to challenging climbs, and the well-maintained, quiet roads that contribute to an enjoyable and safe experience.
Are there amenities like cafes or places to stop along the routes?
Buellton and the surrounding Santa Ynez Valley offer various amenities. You'll find local vineyards perfect for a post-ride relaxation, as well as eateries and bike shops in the area. Many cycling tours in the region also incorporate culinary experiences.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling options in Buellton?
While many routes involve rolling hills, the region does offer options that can be adapted for families with good fitness levels. Roads like Santa Rosa Road are known for being quiet with minimal traffic, making them more pleasant for a family ride. Always check the specific route details for elevation and distance to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.
Most popular routes around Buellton
Most popular attractions around Buellton
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
