The best traffic-free bike rides in St. Joseph'S Hill Open Space Preserve
4.8
(52)
1,273
riders
24
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes in St. Joseph'S Hill Open Space Preserve traverse diverse landscapes, including expansive grasslands, dense chaparral, and serene oak woodlands. The preserve offers panoramic views of the Santa Clara Valley, Lexington Reservoir, and the rugged Sierra Azul Preserve. Trails vary in difficulty, with some sections being steep and rocky, making them suitable for gravel or touring bikes. The summit of St. Joseph's Hill reaches 1,250 feet, providing sweeping vistas across Los Gatos and the Los Gatos…
Last updated: July 10, 2026
11
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
riders
12.5km
00:53
240m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
52
riders
55.3km
04:10
1,270m
1,270m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
35
riders
59.9km
04:29
1,380m
1,380m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around St. Joseph'S Hill Open Space Preserve
Tips from the Community
If you make the summit a fantastic view awaits. Be aware the road goes down then up to the road about then up again to the summit!…
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Still one of the highest points in the Santa Cruz Mountains, even though the military graded and flattened the actual summit to create an Air Force base. The summit was cleaned of hazardous material in 2009, then carefully restored after a lot of community input. It's a lovely place to visit now!
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Vasona Reservoir, located on Los Gatos Creek, is surrounded by the 152-acre Vasona Lake County Park. Built in 1935 as one of six original reservoirs approved by voters in 1934. Vasona Reservoir holds 495 acre-feet of water and spans 57 acres. The park offers picnicking, catch-and-release fishing, and human-powered boating. Swimming is not permitted. It's a great spot for photography and sunrises.
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Climbing Mount Umunhum is a tough but rewarding challenge. The road is steep, with sections reaching up to 18% grades, so pace yourself. The views from the top are spectacular, making the hard work worth it. Start early to avoid traffic and the heat, and be prepared for a long, demanding ascent.
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An excellent spot to take a break and enjoy the full breath of Lexington Reservoir. There is a Plaque dedicated to deputy Douglas B. Miller, who was fatally wounded while performing his duties.
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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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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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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in St. Joseph's Hill Open Space Preserve?
There are 30 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in St. Joseph's Hill Open Space Preserve, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels to explore the region's diverse landscapes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these no-traffic cycling routes?
The terrain in St. Joseph's Hill Open Space Preserve is varied, featuring expansive grasslands, dense chaparral, and serene oak woodlands. While many trails are suitable for touring bikes, some sections, particularly on climbs, can be steep and rocky. A gravel bike or touring bike with robust tires is recommended for optimal comfort and performance.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic cycling options?
Yes, while many routes feature significant elevation gain, there are 4 easy-rated routes that might be suitable for families. The Los Gatos Creek Trail, which connects to the preserve, is a wide gravel path offering a more gentle and scenic ride, perfect for a family outing before heading into the preserve itself.
What are the best viewpoints or natural features to see along the routes?
Cyclists can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Santa Clara Valley, Lexington Reservoir, and the Sierra Azul Preserve. The Saint Josephs Hill summit, at 1,250 feet, offers sweeping vistas across Los Gatos and down into Silicon Valley. Other notable views include the View of Los Gatos and Lexington Reservoir from St. Joseph's Hill and the View of Silicon Valley from St. Joseph's Hill.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops. For example, the difficult-rated Lexington Reservoir – St. Joseph's Hill loop from Los Gatos covers nearly 30 km with over 1000m of elevation gain. A moderate option is the Old Santa Cruz Highway loop from Lexington Reservoir County Park, which is 22.4 km long.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in St. Joseph's Hill Open Space Preserve?
The preserve is enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summers can be hot, especially on exposed sections, while winters might bring occasional rain, making some trails muddy. Always check local weather conditions before your ride.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling here?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from 69 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning panoramic views, the sense of escape from urban areas, and the diverse natural beauty of the trails, especially the quiet, car-free sections.
Are there any particularly challenging no-traffic routes for experienced touring cyclists?
Yes, there are 13 difficult-rated routes for experienced cyclists seeking a challenge. The Old Santa Cruz Highway – Summit Store loop from Lexington Reservoir County Park is one of the longer options at 41.1 km with 747m of climbing, offering a substantial workout and rewarding views.
Where can I find parking for these no-traffic cycling routes?
The preserve is accessible from various points. You can find parking near the town of Los Gatos, often connecting via Novitiate Park, or from the south near Lexington Reservoir County Park. These access points provide convenient starting points for many of the routes.
Can I access these routes using public transport?
While direct public transport to the preserve's trailheads might be limited, the town of Los Gatos, which serves as a northern entrance to St. Joseph's Hill via the Los Gatos Creek Trail, has public transport connections. Cyclists can use these to reach Los Gatos and then cycle to the preserve.
What kind of natural landscapes will I encounter on the trails?
You will cycle through a rich variety of habitats, including open grasslands, dense chaparral, and tranquil oak woodlands. Remnants of historic vineyards also add a unique touch to the landscape, reflecting the preserve's past.
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