The best traffic-free bike rides in Thornewood Open Space Preserve
4.6
(68)
4,312
riders
6
rides
Road cycling in Thornewood Open Space Preserve's vicinity offers diverse terrain within the Santa Cruz Mountains. The area is characterized by forested hills with a mix of redwood, Douglas fir, oak, and madrone woodlands. Road cyclists can find well-paved routes with varying elevation gains, providing views of the southern San Francisco Bay and the Diablo Range. These no traffic road cycling routes cater to different fitness levels, from moderate climbs to challenging ascents.
Best no traffic road cycling routes in…
Last updated: July 10, 2026
123
riders
24.6km
01:56
640m
640m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
84
riders
60.2km
03:20
1,210m
1,210m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Sign up for free
25
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
38
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
13
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Thornewood Open Space Preserve
Tips from the Community
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
The Bike Hut is a small hut with fresh water, organic teas and coffee and a variety of snacks for cyclist passing by. It is self-serve and open 24/7. There is also a small picnic area, a bathroom and a message board for posting road conditions or notes to fellow cyclists.
0
0
This mostly paved bike trail alongside Alpine Road is great for bike commuting — just don't run over any slower trail users! The trail runs all the way from Portola Valley to Stanford, offering some nice shade along the way. The brief moments of unpaved trail are near the Portola Valley end.
0
0
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
This fantastic tavern, founded in 1852, is the second oldest in the state. It features a large, beer garden-style outdoor area with plenty of shade. An extensive beer and food menu makes it a perfect stop to enjoy a brew and some great food after a ride.
0
0
Purisima Creek Trailhead features a fence separating the trail from the road and a small pit toilet at the base. Parking is available just 250 feet southeast along Skyline Boulevard. This trail offers everything, from stunning views to towering redwoods, fern-filled canyons, and creeks. Riding through the redwoods is a unique experience.
0
0
Skyline Boulevard, also known as State Route 35, offers a scenic drive through the majestic redwoods of the Santa Cruz Mountains and Bay Area. Winding through forests, open spaces, and mountains, this section passes by the Purisima Creek Redwoods. It's a breathtaking ride through where the redwoods meet the road.
0
0
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, bicycling, including road cycling, is explicitly not permitted within the trails of Thornewood Open Space Preserve itself. However, the surrounding area, particularly the Santa Cruz Mountains, is renowned for its scenic and challenging road cycling routes that offer a no-traffic experience.
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available near Thornewood Open Space Preserve?
There are over 10 curated no-traffic road cycling routes available in the vicinity of Thornewood Open Space Preserve. These routes offer a variety of distances and elevation gains for different fitness levels.
What kind of difficulty can I expect from these no-traffic road cycling routes?
The routes near Thornewood Open Space Preserve cater to various skill levels. You'll find options ranging from easy rides, with 2 routes suitable for beginners, to 8 moderate routes, and 2 challenging routes for experienced cyclists seeking significant elevation gains.
Are there any circular no-traffic road cycling routes?
Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Old La Honda Road loop from Woodside offers a great circular experience, covering nearly 20 km with significant climbing.
What do other road cyclists say about the routes near Thornewood Open Space Preserve?
The road cycling routes in this area are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.56 stars from 74 reviews. Cyclists often praise the challenging climbs, beautiful scenery, and the quiet, traffic-free nature of roads like Old La Honda and Alpine Road.
Are there any routes suitable for beginners or families looking for a less strenuous ride?
While many routes in the Santa Cruz Mountains are known for their climbs, there are 2 routes classified as easy, which could be more suitable for beginners. For family-friendly options, it's best to check individual route descriptions for specific details on terrain and elevation, as the area generally features significant hills.
Where can I find parking for these no-traffic road cycling routes?
Parking availability varies by route starting point. Popular starting locations for routes like Old La Honda Road or Alpine Road often have designated parking areas nearby. For instance, the Alpine Road loop from Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve would typically involve parking near the preserve or a suitable public area in the vicinity.
What are some of the longer or more challenging no-traffic road cycling routes in the area?
For a significant challenge, consider routes like the Lower Kings Mountain Road – Kings Mountain Road loop from Cañada College, which spans over 58 km with more than 1400 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Lobitos Creek Road – Higgins Canyon Road loop from Skeggs Point, offering a similar distance and over 1100 meters of climbing.
What is the best time of year for road cycling near Thornewood Open Space Preserve?
The Santa Cruz Mountains generally offer good cycling conditions year-round. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer can be warm, especially on exposed sections, while winter might bring rain, but many days remain clear and suitable for riding. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Are there any cafes or places to refuel near the no-traffic road cycling routes?
The routes often pass through or near small towns like Woodside or Portola Valley, where you can find cafes and stores for refreshments. It's advisable to plan your stops in advance, especially on longer rides, as some sections of these no-traffic roads can be quite remote.
What kind of scenery and natural features can I expect on these rides?
While you won't be cycling inside Thornewood Open Space Preserve itself, the surrounding routes offer stunning views of the Santa Cruz Mountains. You'll ride through diverse landscapes including redwood, Douglas fir, oak, and madrone woodlands. Some routes may offer glimpses of the southern San Francisco Bay and the Diablo Range, providing a truly immersive natural experience.
Most popular routes in Thornewood Open Space Preserve
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
