The best traffic-free bike rides in Upper Stevens Creek County Park

Upper Stevens Creek County Park offers around 16 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes. These routes range from moderate to difficult, providing a variety of challenges for cyclists looking for quiet, scenic rides.

The park's diverse landscape, including redwood and Douglas fir stands, oak woodlands, and chaparral, makes it enjoyable year-round. Late spring offers vibrant seasonal wildflowers like chaparral pea and bush poppy, while autumn brings visual interest with red-berried honeysuckle vines and madrone berries. Be mindful of potential mud on some trails during the rainy season.

While many routes in Upper Stevens Creek County Park are rated moderate to difficult due to significant elevation changes and varied terrain, some sections or connections to adjacent preserves might offer more manageable options. It's recommended to check individual route details for elevation profiles and surface types to determine suitability for families.

The park's regulations regarding dogs can vary by trail and preserve. It's always best to check the specific rules for each trail or connected open space preserve you plan to visit. Generally, dogs are often permitted on leash on fire roads and wider trails, but may be restricted on singletrack or in sensitive wildlife areas.

The park features a mix of surfaces, from fire roads to dirt trails. While primarily known for mountain biking, some dirt trail areas are suitable for gravel bikes or stout touring bikes. You'll encounter significant elevation changes, with trails descending to and climbing from Stevens Creek, and varied surfaces that can include loose rock, hardpack, and redwood needles.

Yes, several routes offer circular options, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the challenging Montebello Road loop from Picchetti Ranch Open Space Preserve, which provides a substantial climb and descent. Another option is the moderate Borel Hill – Mindego Hill Windmill loop from Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve.

The park offers stunning natural beauty. You can enjoy mature stands of Douglas fir and redwoods, expansive oak woodlands, and chaparral-covered hills. Open clearings provide views of the rolling hills of Monte Bello Ridge, and from certain vantage points, you might even catch glimpses of Mount Hamilton and Mount Umunhum. The Skyline Boulevard Viewpoint – Borel Hill loop is a great option for scenic vistas.

Parking is available at various access points to the park and its connected preserves. For example, routes like the Montebello Road loop and the Stevens Creek Reservoir – Black Mountain loop start from Picchetti Ranch Open Space Preserve, which typically has parking facilities. Always check specific trailhead information for parking availability and regulations.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the challenging terrain, the quiet and immersive natural environment, and the extensive network of trails that connect to other preserves, allowing for longer, adventurous rides away from traffic.

While Upper Stevens Creek County Park offers a more rugged experience, the nearby Stevens Creek County Park (a connected entity) has restrooms available at the Lakeside Picnic area and at the intersection of Stevens Canyon and Mt. Eden Roads. It's advisable to carry sufficient water and supplies, especially on longer routes, as facilities within Upper Stevens Creek County Park itself may be limited.

The touring cycling routes in Upper Stevens Creek County Park are generally considered moderate to difficult. Out of the 16 routes, 12 are rated moderate and 4 are difficult. This is due to significant elevation changes, steep ascents, and varied trail surfaces. Routes like the Old Ranch Trail – White Oak Trail loop are classified as difficult, requiring good fitness and bike handling skills.