The best cycling routes in Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Big Basin Redwoods State Park offers a selection of 16 touring cycling routes. These routes vary in difficulty, with 5 considered moderate and 11 rated as difficult, providing options for different skill levels.

The park's touring cycling routes feature diverse terrain, ranging from sea level to over 2,000 feet in elevation. You'll encounter well-paved surfaces and more challenging unpaved segments, often shaded by ancient redwood and Douglas-fir trees. The landscape includes winding creeks and impressive ridge-top vistas.

While touring cycling in Big Basin Redwoods State Park, you can encounter several notable natural features. Keep an eye out for Sempervirens Falls, a beautiful waterfall, and the Ocean View Summit, which offers rewarding views. The routes also traverse areas with ancient coast redwoods and diverse ecosystems.

Yes, Big Basin Redwoods State Park has several challenging touring cycling routes. For instance, the San Gregorio State Beach – Kings Mountain Road loop from Mayal's Beach is a difficult 62.4-mile path that combines coastal views with significant climbs. Another demanding option is the Bike loop from Big Basin Way & Hilton Drive, a 13.0-mile route with varied terrain.

While many routes are rated difficult, there are 5 moderate touring cycling routes available in Big Basin Redwoods State Park. These routes offer a less strenuous experience while still allowing you to enjoy the park's natural beauty. You can find options that traverse forested areas and provide a good balance of challenge and accessibility.

Yes, the park features several loop touring cycling routes. A popular option is the Stage Road – Gazos Creek Beach loop from Mayal's Beach, a 46.0-mile trail that takes you through varied landscapes. Another loop is the Stage Road – Downtown Pescadero loop from Mayal's Beach, covering 33.9 miles.

Big Basin Redwoods State Park can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time for touring cycling often depends on weather preferences. The park's redwoods provide shade, which can be pleasant during warmer months. However, it's always advisable to check current trail conditions and park advisories, especially since the park is still recovering from the 2020 CZU Fire.

The touring cycling routes in Big Basin Redwoods State Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 2 reviews. Cyclists often praise the experience of riding through ancient redwood forests, the varied terrain, and the rewarding ridge-top vistas. The unique sensory experience of weaving through giant redwoods and Douglas fir trees is a particular highlight.

Due to ongoing recovery efforts and to manage visitor numbers, it's important to check the official park website for current reservation requirements or permits before your visit. While bicycles are generally permitted on fire roads, specific access rules can change. You can find the most up-to-date information on the California State Parks website: parks.ca.gov/bigbasin.

Yes, some areas within Big Basin Redwoods State Park, particularly certain ridge-top vistas, offer spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. The park's varied elevations contribute to these expansive views, providing a unique contrast to the dense redwood forests. Routes that lead to the Ocean View Summit are known for these rewarding sights.

Yes, segments of trails like the Skyline to the Sea Trail have reopened, allowing for connections to other parts of the regional trail network. This provides opportunities for longer touring cycling adventures that extend beyond the immediate park boundaries and into diverse ecosystems.