The best traffic-free bike rides in Pace Family Wilderness Park
4.9
(8)
376
riders
7
rides
Road cycling in Pace Family Wilderness Park features routes that traverse diverse landscapes, including redwood forests and areas of sandhill ecology. The region is characterized by varied terrain, offering both winding paths through wooded areas and routes connecting to broader networks. Elevation changes are present, with some routes including significant climbs. The park's expanding trail network aims to enhance accessibility and exploration opportunities for cyclists.
Best no traffic road cycling routes in Pace Family Wilderness Park
- The most popular noβ¦
Last updated: July 10, 2026
6
riders
30.6km
01:34
500m
500m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
16
riders
103km
05:23
1,650m
1,650m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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19
riders
35.8km
01:56
660m
660m
The Mountain Charlie Rd β Mountain Charlie Road loop from Bear Mountain offers a deep dive into the Santa Cruz Mountains' challenging cycling environment. You'll pedal through heavily wooded areas,β¦
4.3
(3)
51
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
13
riders
Imagine starting your ride amidst the quiet, forested rolling hills of Branciforte Drive, feeling the gentle climbs of the Santa Cruz Mountains foothills. Then, as you descend, the scenery shiftsβ¦
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Popular around Pace Family Wilderness Park
Tips from the Community
A small open space tucked behind Scotts Valley, Holding 4 is a quick nature escape with a mix of fire roads and mellow trails. Itβs not big, but itβs a nice detour if youβre riding nearby and want a short break from pavement.
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Granite Creek Road is a quiet local road between Scotts Valley and Soquel, with light traffic and a steady, manageable climb. The pavement is generally good, and itβs a practical way to connect to longer rides through the Santa Cruz Mountains. Itβs mostly shaded, which makes the ascent more comfortable.
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George Washington Memorial Grove, adorned with majestic spruce trees, invites cyclists to immerse themselves in its natural splendor. Offering a selection of scenic trails, it provides a refreshing biking experience amidst lush surroundings.
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The Santa Cruz Riverwalk runs along the San Lorenzo River levee from the Highway 1 Bridge to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, providing easy access to downtown Santa Cruz.
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Branciforte Drive is a beautiful and mellow road to ride. The climbs are gentle compared to other roads in the area.
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Capitola Village is a quaint town in Santa Cruz County. The downtown area offers 90 shops, restaurants, and lodging right on the beach. It's also the oldest beach resort on the West Coast.
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This memorial commemorates the former Villa de Branciforte, established in the late 18th century. This place never prospered and was eventually annexed into the city of Santa Cruz in the early 20th century. Of the buildings in this villa, only the Branciforte Adobe remains.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no traffic road cycling routes are available in Pace Family Wilderness Park?
Komoot features three dedicated no traffic road cycling routes in and around Pace Family Wilderness Park. These routes are carefully selected to offer a serene cycling experience away from heavy vehicle traffic.
What is the typical difficulty level of no traffic road cycling routes here?
All the no traffic road cycling routes currently featured are rated as moderate. This means they offer a good challenge with varied terrain and elevation, suitable for cyclists with some experience.
What kind of terrain and natural features can I expect on these no traffic road cycling routes?
The routes traverse diverse landscapes, including majestic redwood forests, lush meadows, and areas showcasing unique sandhill ecology. You'll experience winding trails and scenic views, providing a picturesque backdrop for your ride. The park's expanding trail network, connecting to Quail Hollow Ranch County Park, further enhances the variety of terrain.
When is the best time of year to go road cycling in Pace Family Wilderness Park?
Spring and summer months are particularly beautiful for road cycling in Pace Family Wilderness Park, as you can enjoy vibrant wildflower blooms. However, the diverse terrain and redwood forests offer scenic rides throughout much of the year, depending on local weather conditions.
Are there any circular no traffic road cycling routes available?
Yes, there are circular routes designed for no traffic road cycling. For example, the East Zayante Rd loop from Ben Lomond offers a 37 km circular ride with significant elevation gain, providing a rewarding experience.
What do other cyclists say about the no traffic road cycling experience in Pace Family Wilderness Park?
The no traffic road cycling routes in Pace Family Wilderness Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Cyclists often praise the quiet roads, beautiful natural scenery, and the challenging yet rewarding elevation profiles.
Are there options for longer no traffic road cycling routes?
Yes, you can find routes that offer a good distance. The East Zayante Rd loop from Ben Lomond is approximately 37 km long, while the Branciforte Drive β Santa Cruz Riverwalk loop from Scotts Valley Water District covers about 31 km, providing substantial rides.
Where can I park my car when visiting for a no traffic road cycling trip?
While specific parking areas for each route may vary, general access points for Pace Family Wilderness Park and nearby areas like Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park or Quail Hollow Ranch County Park typically offer parking facilities. It's advisable to check the starting point of your chosen route for the most convenient parking options.
Is public transport an option to reach the no traffic road cycling routes?
Public transport options directly to the trailheads within Pace Family Wilderness Park might be limited. However, depending on your starting point, local bus services may connect to nearby towns like Ben Lomond or Scotts Valley, from where you could cycle to the route start. Planning your journey in advance is recommended.
What should I bring for a no traffic road cycling trip in Pace Family Wilderness Park?
For a comfortable and safe ride, we recommend bringing plenty of water, snacks, a repair kit, and appropriate cycling gear. Given the varied terrain and potential for elevation changes, a helmet is essential. Sunscreen and layers of clothing are also advisable, especially during changing weather conditions.
Are there any nearby places to eat or get refreshments after a ride?
While Pace Family Wilderness Park itself is a natural area, nearby towns such as Ben Lomond and Scotts Valley offer various cafes, restaurants, and shops where you can refuel and relax after your no traffic road cycling adventure.
Most popular routes in Pace Family Wilderness Park
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