The best MTB trails in Pace Family Wilderness Park

Pace Family Wilderness Park offers a network of over 15 mountain bike trails. These routes traverse diverse terrain, including dense redwood forests, rolling hills, and scenic creek-side paths.

Trail lengths vary significantly, from shorter loops around 4.5 miles (7.2 km) like the Mill Pond – Indian Creek Railroad Bridge loop from Felton, which takes about 40 minutes, to longer routes over 19 miles (30 km) such as the Cathedral Redwoods – Chuck Beebe Scenic Bench loop from Mount Hermon, which can take over 2 hours 45 minutes.

Yes, there are options suitable for families and beginners. The Mill Pond – Indian Creek Railroad Bridge loop from Felton is an easy 4.5-mile (7.2 km) trail that leads through forested areas and along a historic railroad grade, making it a good choice for those looking for a less strenuous ride.

Advanced riders will find challenging trails with significant elevation changes and technical sections. Routes like the Bear Mountain – Bear Mountain loop from Scotts Valley, a difficult 7.9-mile (12.7 km) path, offer demanding climbs and descents with panoramic views.

The region generally offers good mountain biking conditions for much of the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. While winter riding is possible, be prepared for potentially wet and muddy conditions, especially on creek-side paths, and always check local trail conditions before heading out.

Many of the mountain bike routes in Pace Family Wilderness Park are designed as loops, allowing riders to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular Cathedral Redwoods – Chuck Beebe Scenic Bench loop from Felton Roaring Camp and the Wild Boar Trail – Wilder Ranch Bike Path loop from Pineridge.

Parking availability varies depending on the specific trailhead. Many routes, especially those starting from towns like Felton or Scotts Valley, offer designated parking areas. It's advisable to check the starting point details of your chosen route on komoot for specific parking information.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 20 reviews. Riders frequently praise the immersive experience of cycling through impressive redwood forests, the variety of terrain, and the well-maintained creek-side paths that define the park's unique character.

Pace Family Wilderness Park is home to diverse wildlife. While riding through the dense redwood forests and along creek-side paths, you might spot various bird species, deer, and smaller mammals. Always maintain a respectful distance and be aware of your surroundings.

While the park has popular routes, exploring some of the moderate to difficult trails can lead to less crowded experiences. For instance, the Wild Boar Trail – Wilder Ranch Bike Path loop from Pineridge, though longer, offers extensive wilderness riding and can provide a sense of discovery away from the more frequented paths.

The park offers a range of difficulty levels to suit different riders. You'll find easy trails perfect for beginners, numerous moderate routes that provide a good balance of challenge and enjoyment, and several difficult trails for experienced mountain bikers seeking more technical terrain and significant climbs.