1.
Old La Honda Road โ Old La Honda Road loop from Portola Valley
21.4km
01:15
510m
510m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
View route
The best road cycling routes in Thornewood Open Space Preserve
By Fede from komoot
ยท
Updated May 29, 2026
If you've ever tried to plan road cycling in Thornewood Open Space Preserve, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. It's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it โ finding those standout rides among countless possibilities can be a real pain.
That's where we come in. Our komoot community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed these roads, so this guide is your curated shortlist of the routes that truly deliver. We're here to save you the guesswork and point you straight to the best of what the Santa Cruz Mountains have to offer. While cycling isn't permitted within the preserve itself, the surrounding roads are a road cyclist's dream, defined by forested hillsides of redwood, Douglas fir, oak, and madrone, with significant elevation gains and panoramic views of the southern San Francisco Bay and the distant Diablo Range. You'll find everything from well-paved, easy spins to challenging climbs that will test your legs.
For a classic experience that local road cyclists love, we'd start with the Old La Honda Road โ Old La Honda Road loop from Portola Valley. This moderate 9.4 miles (15.1 km) route offers a fantastic taste of the area's forested hills and rewarding climbs. If you're looking for something a bit easier, the Alpine Road loop from Portola Valley is a great choice at 8.9 miles (14.5 km), providing a scenic ride without quite as much vertical. With over 4,600 road cyclists having explored these routes with komoot, you know you're in good company.
If you only do 3 of these routes
Compare these routes at a glance
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old La Honda Road โ Old La Honda Road loop from Portola Valley | 21.4ย km | 510ย m | Moderate |
| Alpine Road loop from Portola Valley | 14.5ย km | 200ย m | Easy |
| Old La Honda Road โ Old La Honda Road loop from Woodside | 19.6ย km | 500ย m | Moderate |
| Lower Kings Mountain Road โ Woodside Store (Historic Site) loop from Woodside | 13.4ย km | 220ย m | Moderate |
| Portola Road โ Old La Honda Road loop from Portola Valley | 14.7ย km | 260ย m | Easy |
2.
Alpine Road loop from Portola Valley
14.5km
00:44
200m
200m
The Alpine Road loop from Portola Valley offers a delightful, quick escape for road cyclists, winding through the scenic Portola Valley community. You'll experience a consistent climb on the paved road, rewarded by stunning mountain views before a narrow, twisty descent under moderate tree cover. It's a perfect ride for those seeking a manageable workout and beautiful surroundings without an all-day commitment.
This easy racebike route covers 9.0 miles (14.5 km) with 668 feet (203 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 44 minutes to complete. Parking is usually accessible in Portola Valley, making it convenient to start your ride. While the paved road is generally good, be mindful that shoulders are often absent, and light car traffic can be present.
Historically, parts of Alpine Road were open to vehicular traffic before being repurposed into trails, highlighting the area's evolution for cyclists. This particular loop provides a taste of the region's natural beauty and challenging terrain, distinct from the much steeper unpaved sections like Joaquin Road, which are better suited for mountain or gravel bikes.
View route
3.
Old La Honda Road โ Old La Honda Road loop from Woodside
19.6km
01:14
500m
500m
The Old La Honda Road loop from Woodside offers a quintessential Bay Area road cycling experience, renowned for its challenging yet rewarding climb. You'll pedal through a verdant tunnel of oak woodlands that give way to towering redwood groves, providing a picturesque and shaded ascent. The route's narrow, winding roads and consistent grade make it a favorite for those seeking a true test of their climbing prowess.
This moderate 12.2-mile (19.6 km) route packs in 1633 feet (498 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 1 hour and 13 minutes to complete. It's a fantastic option for experienced riders looking for a focused workout or to gauge their fitness. The loop begins and ends conveniently near the Woodside town center, offering easy access and options for post-ride refueling.
Old La Honda Road is a benchmark climb in the San Francisco Bay Area, frequently used by cyclists to measure their climbing aptitude due to its consistent profile. Car traffic is generally light, enhancing the cycling experience on these well-paved roads. The exhilarating descent on Kings Mountain Road adds to the thrill, making this a dynamic and memorable ride for any road cyclist.
View route
Let us show you the way with the komoot mobile app
With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.
Sign up for free
4.
Lower Kings Mountain Road โ Woodside Store (Historic Site) loop from Woodside
13.4km
01:28
220m
220m
If you're looking for challenging bike rides in the Woodside area, the Lower Kings Mountain Road โ Woodside Store (Historic Site) loop delivers a rewarding experience. You'll pedal through majestic redwood forests, enjoying the cool shade, before the route opens up to offer expansive views of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The ride features a consistent and challenging climb on Kings Mountain Road, followed by a fun, twisty descent, making it a dynamic journey for road cyclists.
This moderate 8.3-mile (13.4 km) road cycling route includes 737 feet (225 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 1 hour and 27 minutes to complete. Parking is available near the Woodside Store Historic Site, which also serves as a convenient landmark. The Woodside area is known for being bicycle-friendly, with amenities like water bottle refills at local markets, so you can easily refuel.
Beyond the physical challenge, the route offers a touch of local history with the Woodside Store (Historic Site), an important landmark built in 1854 that once served as a hub for the logging community. This historic general store now operates as a museum, providing a unique cultural point of interest along your ride. It's a great option for those seeking a blend of natural beauty, a good workout, and a glimpse into the region's past.
View route
5.
Portola Road โ Old La Honda Road loop from Portola Valley
14.7km
00:47
260m
260m
The Portola Road โ Old La Honda Road loop is a classic road cycling route that takes you through some of the Bay Area's most picturesque landscapes. You'll start with a gentle roll on Portola Road before tackling the renowned Old La Honda Road climb, a sustained ascent through oak woodlands that gradually gives way to tranquil redwood groves. This 9.1-mile (14.7 km) loop, with 838 feet (255 metres) of elevation gain, offers a rewarding challenge for cyclists, despite its overall easy rating, and can be completed in about 46 minutes.
Planning your ride is straightforward, as the route is well-known and easily accessible from Portola Valley. While the climb up Old La Honda Road is a highlight, its narrow, twisty nature means descending it is generally discouraged; many cyclists opt for alternative routes like Highway 84. Parking can be found in Portola Valley, though it's wise to arrive early on busy days to ensure a spot. The consistent grade and shaded sections of the climb make it enjoyable even during warmer periods.
Old La Honda Road is famous among local cyclists as a
View route
See every route on the map
Tips from the Community
Lisa
June 22, 2025, Old Woodside Store Museum
Once upon a time this was the only general store in this area, serving not only as a general-purpose retailer but also the post office, bank, and informal dentist's office. Nowadays it's a museum, staffed by docents ready to offer drop-in history lessons.
0
0
Will
June 20, 2025, Alpine Road
The Northern part of Alpine Road is a paved and curvy descent through wooded areas and runs parallel to Coal Mine Ridge Preserve, eventually connecting with the trailhead there.
0
0
Scott Pierson
March 3, 2025, Old La Honda Road
Didnโt OLR used to turn into Dirt before reaching Skyline? Is it all pavement now?? Scott
0
0
Zachary
January 23, 2025, Woodside Store (Historic Site)
Woodside Store was built back in the 1850s by two pioneers who came to California for the gold rush. At the time it was the only stagecoach stop between San Francisco and Santa Clara, and it carried all the essential items that travelers riding between cities might need. The store has been restored, inside and out, to look exactly as it did centuries ago. You can call the museum ahead of your trip to book tours.
0
0
Sue
January 10, 2025, Huddart County Park
This charming park is just 3.5 miles west of Highway 84. There are barbecue pits, a playground, spacious grassy meadows, and plenty of hiking and riding trails. It's an ideal destination for a picnic or a peaceful stroll through the enchanting redwood forest along the park's beautiful winding paths. Dogs are not allowed in the park, so you'll need to leave your pup at home.
0
0
konathuang
August 31, 2024, Old La Honda Road
Old La Honda Rd downhill video: https://youtu.be/icnBpBZQ8gE?si=xYovaH-Nr8llwLEM
0
0
Jamie S.
August 31, 2024, Woodside Store (Historic Site)
The Woodside Store, also known as Tripp Store, is located at 3300 Tripp Road at Kings Mountain Road in Woodside, San Mateo County, California. It has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1985 and was designated a California Historical Landmark in 1949. The store's history dates back to October 1849 when Matthias Alfred Parkhurst purchased land in the area and began a shingle-making and lumber business with his partners, including Robert Orville Tripp. The store was established in 1853, originally serving the needs of lumbermen and settlers during the Gold Rush era. Dr. Tripp became the sole operator of the store after Parkhurst's death in 1863, running it until his own death in 1909. He was a well-known figure in Woodside, holding various public offices. The San Mateo County Historical Association acquired the store in the 1940s, and it was restored to its 1880s condition by 1994.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I road cycle directly within Thornewood Open Space Preserve?
No, road cycling is not permitted on the internal trails of Thornewood Open Space Preserve itself. However, the surrounding roads in the Santa Cruz Mountains offer excellent opportunities for road cycling, with routes often passing near or by the preserve.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes near Thornewood Open Space Preserve?
The region features diverse terrain, from forested hills with a mix of redwood, Douglas fir, oak, and madrone woodlands to routes with significant elevation gain. You'll find both shaded, curvy descents and challenging climbs, often providing panoramic views of the southern San Francisco Bay and the Diablo Range.
Are there routes suitable for beginners or those looking for an easier ride?
Yes, while many routes offer significant climbs, there are options for easier rides with mostly well-paved surfaces. For example, the Manzanita Way โ Tree Tunnel on Portola Road loop from Portola Valley is an easy 14.5-mile path offering a scenic ride through varied landscapes.
Where can I find challenging road cycling routes in the area?
For a more challenging experience, routes incorporating roads like Old La Honda Road are popular. The Old La Honda Road โ Manzanita Way loop from Portola Valley is a moderate 20.15-mile route with significant elevation gain, often completed in under two hours. Another option is the Tree Tunnel on Portola Road โ Lower Kings Mountain Road loop from Portola Valley, which leads through forested hills with notable climbs.
What are some scenic viewpoints or natural features I might encounter on a road bike ride?
Cyclists can enjoy glimpses of the southern San Francisco Bay, Palo Alto, and Stanford University's Hoover Tower from various points. The region is also known for its forested hills, including redwood and Douglas fir woodlands, and the tranquil Schilling Lake within the preserve (though not directly accessible by bike, its presence adds to the natural beauty of the area).
Is there parking available for road cyclists near the routes?
Many popular road cycling routes in the area, such as those incorporating Old La Honda Road or Alpine Road, often start from towns like Portola Valley or Woodside, where public parking may be available. It's advisable to check specific starting points for parking options.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in this region?
The region offers good cycling conditions for much of the year. Wildflowers can be seen until summer, and in autumn, black oaks and big-leaf maples provide vibrant scenery. Always check local weather forecasts, especially for potential fog or rain, as conditions can vary.
Are there any places to stop for refreshments or a break during a ride?
Yes, the nearby historic town of Woodside is a charming and convenient spot for cyclists to refuel. It features quaint shops, a market, a bakery, and outdoor seating, making it an ideal break point.
What do other road cyclists say about the routes near Thornewood Open Space Preserve?
The road cycling routes in this area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 70 reviews. Over 5,000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the challenging climbs, scenic descents, and picturesque natural beauty.
Are there any loop routes available for road cycling?
Yes, many of the popular routes are designed as loops. For instance, the Old La Honda Road โ Old La Honda Road loop from Portola Valley is a moderate 9.4-mile option, and the Old La Honda Road loop from Woodside is another popular moderate loop covering about 12.3 miles.
How many road cycling routes are available in the Thornewood Open Space Preserve surrounding area?
There are over 50 road cycling routes available in the surrounding area of Thornewood Open Space Preserve, offering a wide range of distances and difficulties for cyclists to explore.
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
With aย free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
West Menlo ParkEast Palo AltoRavenswood Open Space PreserveNorth Fair OaksRedwood CityAthertonMenlo ParkSan Bruno Mountain State ParkDaly CityEmerald Lake HillsMoss BeachWunderlich County ParkMillbraeWoodsideSkyline Ridge Open Space PreserveEl GranadaTeague Hill Open Space PreserveBaywood ParkLa Honda Creek Open Space PreserveSan MateoSkyline Ridge Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)HillsboroughBrisbaneBroadmoorCoal Creek Open Space PreserveWindy Hill Open Space PreservePulgas Ridge Open Space PreserveFoster CityHalf Moon BayLoma MarHuddart County ParkMemorial County ParkPescadero Creek County ParkAรฑo Nuevo State ParkLa Honda Creek Open Space Preserve (Closed Areas)Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve (Permit Area)Miramontes Ridge Open Space Preserve (Closed)Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space PreserveBurlingamePigeon Point County ParkTunitas Creek Open Space Preserve (Closed)Butano State ParkPortola ValleyMontaraWindy Hill Open Space Preserve (Closed Areas)South San FranciscoPescaderoRussian Ridge Open Space PreserveRussian Ridge Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)La HondaBurleigh H. Murray Ranch State ParkEl Corte De Madera Creek Open Space PreserveSan CarlosHighlandsThornewood Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)LaderaBelmontSan Pedro Valley County ParkColmaPortola Redwoods State ParkSan BrunoPacificaEl Corte De Madera Creek Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
