The best road cycling routes in Upper Uvas Creek Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)

There are over 10 road cycling routes available in the broader Upper Uvas Creek area, offering diverse experiences for cyclists. These routes traverse the eastern slopes of the Santa Cruz Mountains, providing a mix of terrain and scenic views.

The region offers varied terrain, from relatively flat stretches around reservoirs to more challenging climbs through the Santa Cruz Mountains foothills. Routes can feature significant elevation changes, with some difficult paths gaining over 2,200 meters, while moderate options typically have around 400-600 meters of ascent.

While the guide primarily features moderate to difficult routes, the broader Uvas Creek region, particularly the Uvas Reservoir Loop, is known for offering a pleasant road ride through the foothills. This loop provides backcountry scenery without excessive climbing, making it appealing for various skill levels, including families looking for a less strenuous ride. The core Uvas Reservoir loop is about 16 miles long.

Cyclists can enjoy lush woodlands, views of flowing creeks, and expansive vistas of the nearby Uvas and Chesbro Reservoirs. The routes are set against the backdrop of the Santa Cruz Mountains foothills, offering diverse plant life and opportunities to spot local wildlife like red-tailed hawks and Steller's jays.

Yes, many routes in the area are designed as loops. For example, the Calero Reservoir – View of Chesbro Reservoir loop is a popular moderate option, and the Calero County Park to Uvas Canyon County Park loop also offers a circular experience.

The region generally offers pleasant cycling conditions for much of the year. Spring and fall often provide mild temperatures and vibrant scenery. While specific seasonal considerations for road cycling aren't detailed, the Uvas Reservoir is open year-round, suggesting accessibility. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

The road cycling routes in the Upper Uvas Creek area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.6 stars. Cyclists often praise the scenic views of the reservoirs and the challenging yet rewarding climbs through the Santa Cruz Mountains foothills.

While Uvas Canyon County Park is adjacent to the broader Uvas Creek area and offers amenities like picnic areas and hiking trails, direct road cycling *within* the park's specific trails is not its primary focus. However, routes like the Calero County Park to Uvas Canyon County Park loop will bring you to its vicinity, allowing you to explore the surrounding roads. For more information on the park itself, you can visit Wikipedia.

Absolutely. The region offers several difficult routes for experienced cyclists. For instance, the Calero Reservoir – Old Santa Cruz Highway loop is a challenging 102.5-mile path with significant elevation gain, extending through varied landscapes.

Many routes, such as those starting from Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve Entrance, offer designated parking areas. For routes around the reservoirs, there are often parking facilities available at county parks like Chesbro Reservoir County Park. Always check specific route details for recommended starting points and parking information.

Generally, permits are not required for road cycling on public roads in the broader Upper Uvas Creek area. However, if you plan to access specific county parks or open space preserves, it's always advisable to check their official websites for any specific regulations or entry requirements that might apply.

While the routes themselves often traverse more natural, less developed areas, starting points like Morgan Hill, which is often a gateway to these routes, offer various amenities including coffee shops and cafes where you can refuel before or after your ride.