1.
Los Gatos Creek Trail β Limekiln Trail loop from Lexington Reservoir County Park
23.8km
02:26
740m
740m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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RoutesMTB trailsUnited StatesCaliforniaSanta Clara County
Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
RoutesMTB trailsUnited StatesCaliforniaSanta Clara County
Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
The best MTB trails in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
By Fede from komoot
Β·
Updated May 28, 2026
If you've ever tried to plan mountain biking in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area), you know how confusing the options can be. The truth is, while the preserve itself is a stunning natural area, mountain biking is currently not permitted on its trails. But don't despair! Our komoot community has been busy exploring the incredible mountain biking opportunities in the *surrounding* Santa Cruz Mountains, mapping and reviewing the routes that are genuinely worth your time. We've sifted through the noise to bring you a curated shortlist, saving you the guesswork.
So, what does mountain biking *near* Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area) actually feel like? Expect to dive into dense redwood forests, navigate rolling hills, and climb to scenic ridges that offer expansive views. The terrain here is diverse, ranging from challenging climbs to more moderate paths, all within a landscape rich with natural beauty. While the preserve itself is still developing its multi-use trails for future bicycle access, the immediate area offers a fantastic taste of what's to come, with trails that wind alongside creeks and through mixed woodlands.
If you're looking for a serious challenge with big rewards, we'd start with the Los Gatos Creek Trail β Lexington Reservoir loop from Santa Cruz Mountains. This difficult 24.3-mile (39.2 km) route features significant elevation gain and varied forest paths that are well worth your legs. For something a bit more approachable but still offering incredible scenery, the Bay Area Ridge Trail: Sanborn to Saratoga Gap is a moderate 21.6-mile (34.8 km) path that delivers expansive ridge views through beautiful mixed woodlands. With more than 450 mountain bikers having explored these routes with komoot, you're in good company. Start exploring and find your next favorite ride!
If you only do 3 of these routes
Compare these routes at a glance
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Gatos Creek Trail β Limekiln Trail loop from Lexington Reservoir County Park | 23.8Β km | 740Β m | Moderate |
| Los Gatos Creek Trail β Lexington Reservoir loop from Santa Cruz Mountains | 39.2Β km | 1,160Β m | Hard |
| Bay Area Ridge Trail: Sanborn to Saratoga Gap | 34.8Β km | 800Β m | Moderate |
| Lake Ranch Reservoir β Summit of Sanborn County Park loop from El Sereno | 25.8Β km | 600Β m | Moderate |
| Kennedy Trail β Kennedy Road loop from Oak Meadow | 24.3Β km | 720Β m | Moderate |
| Los Gatos Creek Trail β Summit of Sanborn County Park loop from Oak Meadow | 43.4Β km | 1,020Β m | Hard |
| Mount Umunhum β Mount Umunhum loop from Oak Meadow | 54.4Β km | 1,370Β m | Hard |
| Los Gatos Creek Trail β Lexington Reservoir loop from Oak Meadow | 29.1Β km | 480Β m | Moderate |
| Camden Ponds β Vasona Lake loop from Fruitdale | 19.8Β km | 70Β m | Easy |
| El Sereno Open Space Preserve β Forbes Mill Museum loop from Oak Meadow | 30.1Β km | 780Β m | Moderate |
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2.
Los Gatos Creek Trail β Lexington Reservoir loop from Santa Cruz Mountains
39.2km
03:33
1,160m
1,160m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.
Bay Area Ridge Trail: Sanborn to Saratoga Gap
34.8km
03:24
800m
800m
The Bay Area Ridge Trail: Sanborn to Saratoga Gap offers a fantastic mountain biking adventure through varied terrain, from dense redwood forests to open viewpoints. You'll navigate predominantly singletrack paths, experiencing a mix of natural, unpaved, and gravel surfaces. The route features a significant 1,000-foot climb, much of it shaded, leading to a rewarding viewpoint at 2,800 feet with expansive South Bay views, and passes by the scenic Lake Ranch Reservoir.
This is a moderate mountain bike trail, covering 21.6 miles (34.8 km) with 2617 feet (798 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 3 hours and 24 minutes. While it's a popular choice for mountain biking, specific parking details for Sanborn County Park mountain bike trails or Saratoga Gap are not widely publicized, so plan to arrive early, especially on weekends. Always check for any seasonal conditions or closures before you go.
Part of the larger Bay Area Ridge Trail network, this segment is known for its well-designed layout, having opened in 2014. It's a multi-use trail, connecting to other significant routes like those in Castle Rock State Park, making it a great option for extended exploration. Keep an eye out for majestic trees and unique serpentine rock formations along the way, adding to the natural features of the ride.
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4.
Lake Ranch Reservoir β Summit of Sanborn County Park loop from El Sereno
25.8km
02:30
600m
600m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.
Kennedy Trail β Kennedy Road loop from Oak Meadow
24.3km
02:23
720m
720m
The Kennedy Trail β Kennedy Road loop from Oak Meadow offers a classic South Bay mountain biking challenge, known for its relentless climbs and rewarding vistas. You'll navigate wide fire roads that transition from packed dirt to rocky, rutted sections, with some pitches exceeding 25% grade. As you gain elevation, the scenery unfolds to reveal panoramic views of San Jose and the East Bay Hills, with the Santa Cruz Mountains framing the horizon, making the sustained effort truly worthwhile.
Accessed from Oak Meadow Park, this 15.1-mile (24.3 km) route involves a significant 2368 feet (722 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 22 minutes for a fit rider. Parking is available at Oak Meadow Park, but it's wise to arrive early, especially on weekends, as this moderate-to-hard trail is a local favorite. Remember to bring ample water, as much of the route is exposed, offering continuous views rather than dense tree cover.
This loop is a notorious climb among local mountain bikers and is even the route for the annual Kennedy Turkey Day Ride, a traditional Thanksgiving Day event. It's an excellent choice for experienced riders looking to push their limits on a demanding ascent, offering a true test of fitness and bike handling. The trail's popularity and challenging nature make it a standout option for those seeking a significant workout with big views in the Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve.
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6.
Los Gatos Creek Trail β Summit of Sanborn County Park loop from Oak Meadow
43.4km
03:50
1,020m
1,020m
The Los Gatos Creek Trail β Summit of Sanborn County Park loop from Oak Meadow offers a challenging mountain biking experience, taking you from creek-side paths to the forested heights of Sanborn County Park. You'll climb through towering redwoods and tanbark oaks on the John Nicholas Trail, eventually reaching a viewpoint at 2,800 feet with expansive South Bay views. This difficult 27.0-mile (43.4 km) route with 3359 feet (1024 metres) of elevation gain is a rewarding journey for fit riders, typically taking around 3 hours and 50 minutes.
To tackle this extensive loop, start from Oak Meadow Park, where you'll find parking. Given the duration and elevation, make sure to bring ample water and nutrition. The deep shade provided by the redwoods in Sanborn County Park makes this an excellent option for mountain biking even on warmer days, but always check current trail conditions before you go.
This route is a fantastic way to explore the diverse ecosystems of the Santa Cruz Mountains, transitioning from urban-adjacent trails to wild, forested singletrack. The John Nicholas Trail, specifically designed for mountain bikers, is a highlight, offering a less technical but consistently engaging climb and a fun, flowy descent. It's a comprehensive tour of the region's natural beauty and a true test of endurance.
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7.
Mount Umunhum β Mount Umunhum loop from Oak Meadow
54.4km
04:23
1,370m
1,360m
The Mount Umunhum β Mount Umunhum loop from Oak Meadow offers a challenging mountain biking experience, taking you through diverse terrain to one of the South Bay's most iconic summits. You'll navigate a mix of paved roads, singletrack, and fire roads, with the dedicated Mount Umunhum Trail providing playful twists and rollers. The journey culminates at the summit, where you're treated to incredible 360-degree panoramic views, including the distinctive "Cube" radar tower.
This is a difficult 33.8-mile (54.4 km) route with a substantial 4480 feet (1366 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring around 4 hours and 23 minutes to complete. Plan to start early to tackle the significant climbs, especially on Mount Umunhum Road and Barlow Road, which feature steep grades. While specific parking for Oak Meadow isn't detailed, routes often begin from nearby access points like Hicks Road, so check local guidance for the best starting location.
Mount Umunhum holds deep historical and cultural significance, being sacred to local Native American people, with its name meaning "resting place of the hummingbird." The summit also features the prominent eight-story "Cube," a relic from a former US Air Force radar station, adding a unique historical layer to the natural beauty. The trail system passes through varied ecosystems, from chaparral to oak woodlands, offering a rich natural environment to explore.
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8.
Los Gatos Creek Trail β Lexington Reservoir loop from Oak Meadow
29.1km
02:09
480m
480m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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9.
Camden Ponds β Vasona Lake loop from Fruitdale
19.8km
01:03
70m
70m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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10.
El Sereno Open Space Preserve β Forbes Mill Museum loop from Oak Meadow
30.1km
02:38
780m
780m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Nico
March 31, 2026, Kennedy Trail
This is not a very exciting trail to hike. Itβs pretty much a trail surrounded by thick walls of vegetation, with almost no opportunity to view your surroundings. The trail is 70% rocks/gravel, and 30% hard packed clay, so avoid wearing snickers
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This non-profit organization was founded in 1968 in an effort to preserve the history of the steam locomotive and commemorate the life of Billy Jones.
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Christopher
January 26, 2025, Lake Ranch Reservoir
The Lake Ranch Reservoir is nice and peaceful to run, walk, hike, or bike along. There is a picnic table on the north side of the pond that you could rest at. Since the water is in a small valley, you may want to bring bug spray in the spring/summer months.
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maniboyflex
January 26, 2025, View of the Santa Clara Valley from Sanborn County Park
From here, you get a great view of the forest and valley, with the Santa Clara Mountains in the background. Itβs a nice spot to stop for a picnic and take in the scenery. The trail continues upward, but this spot is perfect if youβre just looking for a good viewpoint.
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Alex
January 10, 2025, Forbes Mill Museum
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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Zachary
September 19, 2024, James J. Lenihan Dam
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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Alex
September 18, 2024, Kennedy Road Sierra Azul Trailhead
The Kennedy Road Sierra Azul Trailhead has a small parking area that fits about three cars, depending on size, and offers a shaded starting point. A portable toilet is available at the trailhead, and additional parking can be found at the top of Top of the Hill Road.
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Jamie S.
August 31, 2024, Summit of Sanborn County Park
The Peak is a 3,005-foot mountain in Santa Clara County. The high point is marked by a large mossy rock, a short distance away from the end of the trail. This is a great, challenging summit for any mountain biker.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)?
There are over 25 mountain bike trails in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area), offering a diverse range of experiences for riders.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about the trails in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 80 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscape, including dense redwood forests, rolling hills, and varied terrain suitable for different skill levels.
Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)?
Yes, the preserve offers several easy trails. For instance, the Camden Ponds β Vasona Reservoir loop from Los Gatos is an easy 7.8-mile (12.5 km) route with minimal elevation gain, perfect for those new to mountain biking.
Are there challenging mountain bike trails for advanced riders in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)?
Absolutely. Advanced riders can tackle routes like the Los Gatos Creek Trail β Lexington Reservoir loop from Santa Cruz Mountains, a difficult 24.3-mile (39.2 km) trail featuring significant elevation gain and varied forest paths.
Are there any loop mountain bike trails in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)?
Yes, many trails in the preserve are loops. A popular moderate option is the Lake Ranch Reservoir β Summit of Sanborn County Park loop from El Sereno, which is 15.9 miles (25.5 km) and takes you through redwood groves and past a reservoir.
What are the typical trail lengths for mountain biking in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)?
Trail lengths vary significantly. You'll find shorter, easy loops around 7-8 miles (11-13 km) and longer, more challenging routes extending over 20 miles (32 km), such as the Bay Area Ridge Trail: Sanborn to Saratoga Gap which is 21.6 miles (34.8 km).
Are there any family-friendly mountain bike routes in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)?
While the preserve has many moderate to difficult trails, families with some biking experience can find suitable options. Look for the easier-rated trails, which tend to have less elevation gain and smoother surfaces, though specific 'family-friendly' designations may vary by trail section.
What is the best time of year for mountain biking in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)?
The preserve is generally enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer the most pleasant conditions with mild temperatures and lush scenery. Summer can be warm, and winter may bring rain, making some trails muddy. Always check local weather and trail conditions before heading out.
Are there scenic viewpoints along the mountain bike trails in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)?
Yes, many trails offer expansive views. For example, the Bay Area Ridge Trail: Sanborn to Saratoga Gap provides impressive vistas from the ridge as it winds through mixed woodlands.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while mountain biking in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)?
The preserve is home to diverse wildlife. Riders might spot deer, various bird species, and occasionally bobcats or coyotes. Remember to maintain a respectful distance and never feed wild animals.
Is there parking available for mountain bikers at Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)?
Yes, parking is available at designated trailheads and access points within and around the preserve. It's advisable to check specific trailhead information for parking availability and any potential fees or restrictions before your visit.
Are permits required for mountain biking in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)?
Access to Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area) generally requires a permit from the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District. It's crucial to check their official website for the most current permit requirements and application procedures before planning your ride.
What should I wear for mountain biking in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)?
Given the varied terrain and potential for elevation changes, it's best to wear layers. Moisture-wicking athletic wear, a helmet, gloves, and appropriate mountain biking shoes are recommended. Always carry water, snacks, and basic repair tools.
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