The best gravel rides in Long Ridge Open Space Preserve

The preserve offers a diverse range of terrain, from cool, creekside forests along Peters Creek to sweeping grasslands and shady oak woodlands. You'll find both singletrack and doubletrack routes, with some sections shaded by Douglas fir, madrone, and big-leaf maple. The trails are well-suited for gravel bikes, stout touring bikes, or hardtail mountain bikes.

Yes, while some routes are challenging, there are options for various skill levels. For a moderate, family-friendly ride, consider the White Oak Trail – Bella Vista Trail loop from Los Trancos Open Space Preserve, which is about 6.2 miles long and winds through oak woodlands with scenic vistas.

Long Ridge Open Space Preserve offers several scenic spots. You can find panoramic views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and Pescadero Valley, extending to the Pacific, from the Wallace Stegner Memorial Bench. Another excellent vantage point is Turtle Rock Viewpoint, offering extensive views of Big Basin State Park and the Pacific Ocean. The Peters Creek Trail also provides a picturesque journey along the creek and past an old apple orchard.

There are several gravel bike routes available, with komoot featuring 4 distinct tours. These range in difficulty from moderate to difficult, providing options for different experience levels.

The preserve is beautiful year-round, but spring is particularly spectacular with displays of wildflowers. Cyclists should be aware that some trails may be closed to bikes during wet conditions, so checking current trail status is advisable, especially in winter months.

Yes, for a more challenging ride, the West Old La Honda Road – Hickory Oaks Trail loop from Long Ridge Open Space Preserve is a difficult 33.5-mile route featuring varied terrain and expansive views. Another demanding option is the White Oak Trail – Old Ranch Trail loop from Picchetti Ranch Open Space Preserve, which covers 25.9 miles through diverse landscapes.

Yes, parking is typically available at designated access points to the preserve. It's always a good idea to check specific trailhead information for the route you plan to ride to confirm parking availability.

Yes, Long Ridge Open Space Preserve is a significant part of the Bay Area Ridge Trail, one of its longest continuous segments. This allows for extended rides and connections to other preserves such as Skyline Ridge, Saratoga Gap, and Upper Stevens Canyon County Park.

Cyclists are required to wear helmets, maintain a 15 mph speed limit (reduced to 5 mph when passing others), and e-bikes are generally restricted. Some trails may also be closed to bikes during wet conditions.

As a preserve rather than a park, Long Ridge Open Space Preserve typically does not offer facilities such as restrooms, drinking water fountains, or picnic tables. Visitors should plan accordingly and bring their own water and supplies.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, the stunning views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and Pacific Ocean, and the immersive natural experience offered by the diverse ecosystems.