1.
Chuck Beebe Scenic Bench β Seep Zone Nature Reserve loop from Felton
17.7km
01:33
320m
320m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The best MTB trails around Ben Lomond
By Fede from komoot
Β·
Updated May 28, 2026
If you've ever tried to plan mountain biking around Ben Lomond, you know how overwhelming the options can be. Sifting through countless trails to find the ones genuinely worth your time and effort can feel like a ride in itself. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has ridden, reviewed, and mapped these routes, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the best mountain bike trails Ben Lomond has to offer, saving you the guesswork.
Mountain biking here is all about the majestic redwood forests, rolling hills, and a fantastic mix of wooded paths and open sections. The terrain ranges from easy, flowing rides to challenging ascents and technical descents, ensuring there's something for every skill level. This area truly stands out for its diverse landscape, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and thrilling trails.
For a fantastic introduction to the area's character, we'd start with the Cathedral Redwoods β Chuck Beebe Scenic Bench loop from Felton Roaring Camp. This moderate 12.0 miles (19.3 km) route is a local favourite, offering a great mix of climbs and descents through those iconic redwood forests. If you're looking for a longer adventure that showcases more of the region's variety, the Wild Boar Trail β Wilder Ranch Bike Path loop from Pineridge is a solid choice. At 26.9 miles (43.2 km), it takes you through coastal bluffs and open grasslands, providing a different perspective. With over 700 mountain bikers having explored these routes with komoot, you're in good company. Dive in and discover your next favourite ride!
If you only do 3 of these routes
Compare these routes at a glance
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chuck Beebe Scenic Bench β Seep Zone Nature Reserve loop from Felton | 17.7Β km | 320Β m | Moderate |
| Wild Boar Trail β Wilder Ranch Bike Path loop from Pineridge | 43.5Β km | 740Β m | Moderate |
| Mountainbike loop from Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park | 23.4Β km | 620Β m | Moderate |
| Cathedral Grove β Bear Mountain loop from Scotts Valley | 13.4Β km | 250Β m | Hard |
| Indian Creek Railroad Bridge β Fremont Tree loop from Felton | 12.2Β km | 210Β m | Hard |
| Fremont Tree β Bench with a view of the coast loop from Scotts Valley | 17.6Β km | 420Β m | Hard |
| Chuck Beebe Scenic Bench β Seep Zone Nature Reserve loop from Empire Grade & Smith Grade | 50.4Β km | 610Β m | Moderate |
| Indian Creek Railroad Bridge β Fremont Tree loop from Bear Mountain | 45.3Β km | 860Β m | Hard |
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2.
Wild Boar Trail β Wilder Ranch Bike Path loop from Pineridge
43.5km
03:35
740m
740m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.
Mountainbike loop from Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
23.4km
02:10
620m
620m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.
Cathedral Grove β Bear Mountain loop from Scotts Valley
13.4km
01:22
250m
250m
The Cathedral Grove β Bear Mountain loop offers a challenging mountain biking experience through the scenic redwood forests and rolling hills of Scotts Valley. You'll navigate natural singletrack and dense tree cover, encountering technical sections and significant elevation changes that demand advanced riding skills and good fitness. This 8.3-mile (13.4 km) route, with its 835 feet (255 metres) of climbing, is a difficult ride that typically takes around 1 hour and 21 minutes to complete.
When planning your ride on these Scotts Valley mountain bike trails, be aware that this is one of the more demanding options in the region. While specific parking for the Cathedral Grove trailhead isn't detailed, general access points in the Scotts Valley area usually have parking. It's always wise to check for seasonal conditions or wet weather closures, especially during the rainy season, as redwood mountain biking trails can be sensitive to moisture.
This particular Cathedral Grove mountain biking route stands out as a difficult option within the broader Scotts Valley trail network. The presence of towering redwood forests creates a unique and immersive riding environment, distinguishing it from other trails. It's a great choice if you're seeking advanced mountain biking in the redwoods and want to test your limits on a demanding loop.
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5.
Indian Creek Railroad Bridge β Fremont Tree loop from Felton
12.2km
01:09
210m
210m
The Indian Creek Railroad Bridge β Fremont Tree loop offers a rugged mountain biking experience through the majestic redwood forests near Felton, California. You'll encounter diverse terrain, from challenging climbs to technical descents, all while surrounded by towering trees and the serene beauty of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The highlight of this ride is undoubtedly the chance to see the historic Indian Creek Railroad Bridge and the massive Fremont Tree, a hollow redwood you can actually step inside.
This difficult 7.6-mile (12.2 km) route, with its 692 feet (211 metres) of elevation gain, is designed for advanced riders and typically takes about 1 hour and 9 minutes. Be ready for a workout; some sections may require you to push your bike. The mild coastal climate means you can enjoy this trail year-round, but always check conditions, especially after rain, as trails can become muddy or rutted.
This loop is a fantastic way to explore the natural and historical landmarks of the Felton area, combining the thrill of mountain biking with the awe-inspiring scale of the redwood ecosystem. It's a perfect choice if you're looking for a demanding ride that rewards you with unique sights and a true sense of adventure in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.
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6.
Fremont Tree β Bench with a view of the coast loop from Scotts Valley
17.6km
01:44
420m
420m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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7.
Chuck Beebe Scenic Bench β Seep Zone Nature Reserve loop from Empire Grade & Smith Grade
50.4km
03:49
610m
610m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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8.
Indian Creek Railroad Bridge β Fremont Tree loop from Bear Mountain
45.3km
03:19
860m
860m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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Tips from the Community
Tom Ginsburg
November 20, 2025, Fremont Tree
This is a coastal redwood, not a Sequoia redwood which is a different species found inland.
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Andrus
June 19, 2025, Cathedral Grove
Today, this area is a protected stand of Redwoods, but as you walk along the trail you are bound to come across the remnants of a once booming industry based on the cutting and selling of these magnificent trees.
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maniboyflex
January 21, 2025, Indian Creek Railroad Bridge
The Indian Creek Railroad Bridge was once part of a rail system used to transport lumber and goods from the surrounding redwood forests. Today, it stands as a reminder of the regionβs industrial past. While the bridge is not accessible to pedestrians, it can be viewed from nearby trails.
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Tyler Sanders
February 19, 2024, Seep Zone β Chinquapin Road and Fuel Break Road Junction
This area is a steep, gullied region containing numerous springs and seeps (areas where water oozes slowly out of the ground). A diverse range of wildlife, including bobcats, cows, eagles, and squirrels, can be found here.
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Matthew
February 3, 2024, Wilder Ranch Bike Path
The Wilder Ranch Bike Path is an entirely paved trail away from the nearby busy highway. The path helps connect Wilder Ranch State Park to Santa Cruz and is open to runners and walkers, too.
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Tyler Sanders
January 21, 2024, Seep Zone Nature Reserve
This area is a steep, gullied region containing numerous springs and seeps (areas where water oozes slowly out of the ground). A diverse range of wildlife, including bobcats, cows, eagles, and squirrels, can be found here.
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Scott
December 11, 2023, U-Con Trail
Winding through lush greenery, this trail provides ample shade. With occasional narrow passages and rocky sections, it adds an intriguing touch to the rideβa journey through nature's captivating terrain.
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oliviakellis
November 23, 2023, Mill Pond
Experience the charm of Mill Pond on a unique mountain biking adventure. Nestled beside train tracks, this small, horseshoe-shaped haven offers an intimate ride. Pedal through the picturesque landscape, enjoying the quaint surroundings and the rhythmic cadence of passing trains.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the general difficulty level of mountain bike trails around Ben Lomond?
The mountain bike trails around Ben Lomond offer a diverse range of difficulties, from easy, flowing rides through forests to more challenging ascents and descents. You'll find options suitable for various skill levels, with a good mix of moderate and difficult routes available.
Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Ben Lomond?
Yes, there are several easy mountain bike trails perfect for beginners. One popular option is the Felix the Cat, Chinquapin, Pipe Dream and Magic Carpet Loop, which is 4.0 miles (6.4 km) long and offers a flowing ride through varied forest sections.
What are some challenging mountain bike trails for advanced riders around Ben Lomond?
For advanced riders seeking a challenge, the Bear Mountain β Bear Mountain loop from Scotts Valley is a difficult 12.7 miles (20.4 km) route with significant elevation changes. This trail provides a demanding experience for experienced mountain bikers.
How long do mountain bike trails typically take around Ben Lomond?
Trail durations vary significantly based on length and difficulty. Shorter, easy routes like the Felix the Cat, Chinquapin, Pipe Dream and Magic Carpet Loop can be completed in under an hour. Longer, moderate trails such as the Cathedral Redwoods β Chuck Beebe Scenic Bench loop from Felton Roaring Camp might take around 2 hours, while more extensive routes like the Wild Boar Trail β Wilder Ranch Bike Path loop from Pineridge can take over 3 hours.
Are there family-friendly mountain bike trails in the Ben Lomond area?
Yes, the region offers several easy trails that are suitable for families. The Felix the Cat, Chinquapin, Pipe Dream and Magic Carpet Loop is a great choice, providing a gentle and scenic ride through the forest that families can enjoy together.
What kind of natural attractions or landmarks can I see while mountain biking near Ben Lomond?
Many trails wind through stunning natural areas. You can explore majestic redwood forests, such as the Cathedral Redwoods, or encounter unique natural monuments like the Fremont Tree. Some routes also offer views of coastal bluffs and open grasslands.
Are there circular mountain bike routes available around Ben Lomond?
Yes, many of the mountain bike trails in the Ben Lomond area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Cathedral Redwoods β Chuck Beebe Scenic Bench loop from Felton Roaring Camp and the Wild Boar Trail β Wilder Ranch Bike Path loop from Pineridge.
What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Ben Lomond?
The mountain bike trails around Ben Lomond are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 90 reviews. Riders frequently praise the diverse landscape, the mix of wooded paths and open sections, and the well-maintained trails that cater to different preferences.
When is the best time of year to go mountain biking around Ben Lomond?
The Ben Lomond area generally offers good mountain biking conditions year-round, thanks to its mild climate. However, spring and fall often provide the most pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, especially during winter months when some trails might be wetter.
How many mountain bike trails are there in Ben Lomond?
There are nearly 30 mountain bike trails available around Ben Lomond, offering a wide variety of options for all skill levels. This includes 8 easy, 14 moderate, and 7 difficult routes.
What wildlife might I encounter while mountain biking in Ben Lomond?
The diverse ecosystems around Ben Lomond, including redwood forests and open grasslands, are home to various wildlife. You might spot deer, various bird species, and smaller mammals. Always ride responsibly and respect the natural habitat.
Are there mountain bike trails near Ben Lomond with cafes or refreshment stops nearby?
While specific cafes directly on every trail are not guaranteed, many trails are located near towns like Felton or Scotts Valley, which offer various dining and refreshment options. Planning your route to pass through or near these towns can provide opportunities for a break and a bite to eat.
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