The best road cycling routes in Ravenswood Open Space Preserve

The Old La Honda & Kings Mountain loop offers a quintessential Northern California road cycling experience, plunging you into the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains. You'll climb through a stunning progression of landscapes, from sun-drenched oak woodlands to the cool, misty embrace of ancient redwood groves, especially along the famed Old La Honda Road. The route is a continuous journey of ascents and descents, with narrow, winding roads that feel far removed from urban life, occasionally revealing expansive viewpoints of the San Francisco Bay.

This difficult 74.7-mile (120.2 km) loop demands good fitness, featuring 6887 feet (2099 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 6 hours and 9 minutes. While there are no specific parking instructions, starting from Palo Alto provides convenient access to this challenging ride. It's advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks, as amenities are sparse along much of the route, though the "Bike Hut" on Tunitas Creek Road can be a welcome stop if your route includes it.

Old La Honda Road is particularly notable as a benchmark climb, attracting national-caliber riders and serving as a local proving ground. Both Old La Honda and Kings Mountain roads are celebrated for their consistent grades and excellent pavement, making them a favorite among advanced road cycling climbs near Palo Alto. The combination of a rigorous workout with serene, beautiful surroundings makes this loop a standout among Palo Alto road cycling popular routes.

The Stevens Creek Reservoir Loop offers a diverse road cycling adventure through the Santa Cruz Mountains foothills. You'll wind past the tranquil waters of Stevens Creek Reservoir, climb through varied woodlands, and enjoy views of wineries from higher elevations. Expect a mix of well-paved roads and significant elevation changes, including the notable Mt. Eden Road climb, making for a rewarding and scenic ride.

Planning your Stevens Creek Reservoir Loop road cycling trip is straightforward, though a few points are worth noting. Parking is typically available at the Chestnut Parking Lot, but be prepared for potential fees. If you're riding on a weekday, be mindful of quarry trucks on Stevens Canyon Road, which can increase traffic in that area. An early start is recommended to fully appreciate the tranquil atmosphere.

This difficult 40.6-mile (65.4 km) road cycling route features a substantial 3468 feet (1057 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 3 hours and 18 minutes. It's an excellent choice for advanced cyclists seeking a challenging workout and varied terrain. The route transitions from lush creekside paths along Stevens Creek to open vistas, showcasing the natural beauty of Santa Clara County.

The Old La Honda & Woodside loop from Palo Alto offers a quintessential Bay Area road cycling experience, winding through serene redwood groves and past suburban oak woodlands. The highlight is the consistent, challenging climb up Old La Honda Road, a peaceful ascent that rewards you with a sense of accomplishment and a fast descent. You'll find yourself immersed in natural beauty, far from the city bustle, making it a favorite among local riders.

This moderate 27.5-mile (44.3 km) route features a significant 2578 feet (786 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 19 minutes to complete. The road surface is generally well-maintained, and traffic is light, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride. It's a fantastic option for cyclists looking to push their limits on a benchmark climb without an overly punishing gradient.

Old La Honda Road is famously known as a

The Old La Honda Road – Lower Kings Mountain Road loop from Palo Alto is a classic road cycling route that immerses you in the diverse beauty of the Bay Area. You'll climb through the serene redwood groves of Old La Honda Road, where a consistent grade tests your legs under a dense tree canopy, then traverse Skyline Boulevard with its expansive views, and finally ascend through the redwoods of Huddart Park on Kings Mountain Road, often considered even more scenic with glimpses of the San Francisco Bay. This difficult 49.0-mile (78.9 km) ride with 4842 feet (1476 metres) of elevation gain is a true benchmark for experienced cyclists, taking about 4 hours and 10 minutes.

To make the most of this challenging loop, plan an early start, especially if you're riding on a weekend, as Kings Mountain Road can experience higher traffic volumes. While there's no specific parking mentioned for the Palo Alto start, you'll find ample street parking in residential areas. Be sure to carry plenty of water and nutrition for the sustained effort, as this route is designed to push your limits.

This loop is widely regarded as an iconic ride in the region, with Old La Honda Road serving as a benchmark climb for many Bay Area cyclists to measure their fitness. The route's popularity stems from its combination of significant physical challenge, consistent grades, and the stunning, varied scenery that transitions from oak woodlands to dense redwood forests and panoramic viewpoints.