The best road cycling routes around Lompico
4.9
(7)
818
riders
38
rides
Road cycling routes around Lompico are situated within the Santa Cruz Mountains, offering diverse terrain characterized by towering redwood forests and challenging climbs. The region features winding roads that navigate through shaded ecosystems and provide varied elevation changes. Road cyclists can expect routes that traverse hills and offer views of the natural landscape, including areas near Loch Lomond Lake and Lompico Creek.
Best road cycling routes around Lompico
- The most popular road cycling route is Capitola Village β Capitola Beach loop from Santa Cruz Mountains, a 33.1 miles (53.2 km) trail that takes 2 hours 43 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers a journey from the mountains towards coastal views.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Mountain Charlie Rd loop from Redwood Camp, a moderate 23.6 miles (38.0 km) path. This route winds through redwood forests, providing a scenic and challenging experience.
- Local road cyclists also love the Glenwood Open Space Preserve β Mountain Charlie Rd loop from Santa Cruz Mountains, a 24.6 miles (39.7 km) trail leading through varied mountain terrain, often completed in about 2 hours 16 minutes.
- Road cycling around Lompico is defined by redwood forests, challenging climbs, and winding mountain roads. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult ability levels.
- The routes in Lompico are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 5 reviews. More than 890 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Lompico's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
5.0
(1)
25
riders
26.7km
01:22
370m
370m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5.0
(1)
47
riders
72.1km
03:57
1,460m
1,460m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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19
riders
35.8km
01:56
660m
660m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
14
riders
52.5km
02:50
980m
980m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
34
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Tips from the Community
Great bar. Friendly helpful staff/owner simple ordering system. Great place to watch the world go by with a beer π»
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A small open space tucked behind Scotts Valley, Holding 4 is a quick nature escape with a mix of fire roads and mellow trails. Itβs not big, but itβs a nice detour if youβre riding nearby and want a short break from pavement.
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Granite Creek Road is a quiet local road between Scotts Valley and Soquel, with light traffic and a steady, manageable climb. The pavement is generally good, and itβs a practical way to connect to longer rides through the Santa Cruz Mountains. Itβs mostly shaded, which makes the ascent more comfortable.
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A scenic stop just off the winding roads of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Lexington Reservoir County Park is a great spot to catch your breath and enjoy the view. The smooth pavement along Alma Bridge Road makes it a popular stretch for cyclists, with rolling terrain and minimal traffic. There's parking, restrooms, and shaded areas if you need a break. From here, you can loop toward Los Gatos or push deeper into the climbs of Highway 17 and Old Santa Cruz Highway.
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Big Basin Redwoods State Park has reopened for limited day use following the 2020 CZU Lightning Complex Fire. Visitors can explore trails like Redwood Loop and Meteor Trail, where resilient redwoods stand alongside new growth. Parking is $6 per vehicle with a $2 reservation fee or $10 without reservations. Rancho del Oso, the parkβs coastal area, requires no reservations or fees. Dogs, horses, and mountain bikes are welcome in designated areas, while drones are prohibited. Road biking is allowed on all roads.
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Los Gatos Coffee Roasting Company has been crafting coffee since 1982, becoming a beloved gathering spot for locals. They offer local wines, craft beers, and live music events on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 7β9 PM. Visitors can enjoy espresso, tea, pastries, and fresh coffee beans to take home. Seating is available indoors, outdoors, and in a designated parklet.
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Forbes Mill Museum, housed in a two-story building of the original 1854 flour mill, offers a glimpse into Los Gatos' history. Built by James Alexander Forbes as California's first commercial flour mill, over the years, it served various roles, including a power plant and a PG&E substation. Saved from demolition in 1982, the building now features historical exhibits as part of New Museum Los Gatos.
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From the top of the dam you get splendid views out across Lexington Reservoir. To the north you overlook the winding end of the Los Gatos Creek Trail, which connects to the Jones Trail across from the restroom just up the road. The dam itself was constructed in 1952 and stands at nearly 200 feet tall.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Lompico?
There are over 35 road cycling routes around Lompico, offering a variety of experiences within the Santa Cruz Mountains.
What are the typical difficulty levels for road cycling routes in Lompico?
Lompico's road cycling routes cater to various skill levels, with 3 easy, 23 moderate, and 12 difficult routes. The region is known for its challenging climbs through redwood forests.
When is the best time of year for road cycling in Lompico?
The Santa Cruz Mountains, including Lompico, benefit from a moderate climate, making it an appealing year-round cycling destination. However, conditions can vary, so checking local weather is always recommended.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Lompico's road cycling routes?
You can expect diverse terrain characterized by towering redwood forests and challenging climbs. Routes often feature winding roads that navigate through shaded ecosystems and offer varied elevation changes, including areas near Loch Lomond Lake and Lompico Creek.
Are there any particularly scenic or challenging climbs in the Lompico area?
Yes, the Santa Cruz Mountains are renowned for challenging climbs. Roads like Felton Empire Road, Alba Road, Jamison Creek Road, Empire Grade, and Zayante Road are known for their steep, winding, and picturesque sections through redwood forests.
What natural features can I explore along the road cycling routes?
The routes often pass through majestic redwood forests, including old-growth groves and unique 'Cathedral Redwoods'. You might also encounter areas near the Lompico Headwaters, Loch Lomond Lake, and Lompico Creek, which are rich in natural beauty and wildlife.
What nearby attractions can I visit while road cycling in Lompico?
While cycling, you can explore natural monuments such as the Fremont Tree, Cathedral Redwoods, and Old Growth Redwood Trees. Additionally, nearby Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park offers further exploration opportunities.
Are there any road cycling routes that offer coastal views?
Yes, the Capitola Village β Capitola Beach loop from Santa Cruz Mountains is a moderate 33.1-mile route that takes you from the mountains towards scenic coastal views.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Lompico?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the challenging climbs, the beauty of the redwood forests, and the varied terrain that defines the region's cycling experience.
Are there any quieter road cycling options with less traffic?
Yes, the Scott Valley holding 4 β Granite Creek Road loop from Bear Mountain is a 16.6-mile route that leads through shaded local roads with light traffic, offering a more tranquil ride.
Are there any long-distance or more difficult road cycling routes available?
For a more challenging and longer ride, consider the Felton β Big Basin Redwood State Park loop from Mount Hermon. This difficult route spans over 50 miles and includes significant elevation changes.
Can I find routes that specifically wind through redwood forests?
Absolutely. A popular choice for experiencing the redwood forests is the Mountain Charlie Rd loop from Redwood Camp, a moderate 23.6-mile path that winds directly through these iconic trees.
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