Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
The best traffic-free bike rides in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
4.9
(19)
1,441
riders
9
rides
If you've ever tried to plan road cycling in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area), you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many routes winding through these stunning redwoods, it's tough to tell which ones are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has ridden, mapped, and reviewed countless miles here, so we've curated this guide to cut through the noise and point you straight to the rides that deliver.
Road cycling in Purisima Creek Redwoods is all about the climb and the reward. You'll find yourself immersed in dense second-growth redwood forests, with the sounds of Purisima Creek often your companion. The terrain is wonderfully varied, from shaded forest paths to open ridge sections that suddenly reveal expansive views of the San Mateo County Coast and Half Moon Bay. Expect significant elevation changes, but also the satisfaction of good road surfaces and a real sense of solitude. While there's a range from easy spins to demanding ascents, the core experience here is a challenging, rewarding ride through nature.
If you only do one ride, make it the Lower Kings Mountain Road – Kings Mountain Road loop from Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve. At 10.9 miles (17.5 km) with substantial elevation, it's a moderate route that gives you a fantastic taste of the redwood forests and varied contours. For those seeking a bigger challenge and more miles, the difficult Lobitos Creek Road – Higgins Canyon Road loop from Skeggs Point, at 37.4 miles (60.2 km), offers significant climbs and diverse terrain for experienced riders. With an average rating of 4.9 stars from our community, you can trust that these routes are worth your legs. Start exploring with komoot and find your next favorite ride.
Last updated: May 30, 2026
38
riders
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.
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42
riders
23.3km
01:16
120m
120m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
37
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.5
(2)
76
riders
43.1km
02:08
580m
580m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
Tips from the Community
Miramar Beach offers a serene coastal escape with sandy shores and scenic vistas. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the shoreline or explore the nearby California Coastal Trail, which provides stunning ocean views and connects to other local attractions.
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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.
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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.
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Exactly what it says on the tin! The truth is that most of the trail along Half Moon Bay is nice and flat, making for an easy, casual ride with incredible views.
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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.
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Higgins Canyon Road, located near Half Moon Bay in San Mateo County, California, is a scenic and narrow route that is popular among cyclists. The road begins in the quaint town of Half Moon Bay and heads inland into the Santa Cruz Mountains. Starting with a gentle incline, the road passes through farmland, horse pastures, and eucalyptus groves before climbing into dense forests of redwoods and oaks. The climb along Higgins Canyon Road is steadily uphill, but manageable, and features several sharp curves and blind corners (be alert on the descent!). The road is narrow and, unfortunately, lacks a shoulder in most areas, but the traffic is relatively light. As you climb, you are rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and occasional glimpses of the distant Pacific Ocean. Higgins Canyon Road also connects to other popular cycling roads, like Tunitas Creek Road and Lobitos Creek Road, offering further opportunities for extended your ride through the scenic terrain of the Santa Cruz Mountains.
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An awesome descent or ascent following the pretty, tree lined mountain road. There aren't many cars, but it's not a wide road so do watch out and enjoy the road rather than race it.
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As you explore, you will find yourself surrounded by a dense canopy of trees that offer ample shade all day long. Feel free to make use of the nearby stream to take a break and fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking surroundings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)?
There are 11 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes in the Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area) for you to explore. These routes offer a range of experiences, from easy rides to more challenging climbs.
What is the general difficulty level of no-traffic road cycling routes in this area?
The routes here offer a mix of difficulties. While there is 1 easy route, the majority (9 out of 11) are rated as moderate, and 1 is considered difficult. Many routes feature significant elevation changes, so be prepared for climbs and descents, especially on routes like the Kings Mountain Road – Lower Kings Mountain Road loop.
Are there any loop routes for no-traffic road cycling?
Yes, several routes are designed as loops. For example, the Kings Mountain Road – Lower Kings Mountain Road loop offers a 17.4 km ride through redwood forests. Another option is the longer Lobitos Creek Road – Higgins Canyon Road loop, which is a challenging 58.3 km route.
What kind of landscapes and natural features can I expect to see while cycling?
You'll experience diverse scenery, from towering second-growth redwood forests, some reaching 380 feet, to coastal scrub and hardwood forests of tanoak and madrones. The Purisima Creek Canyon is a central feature, and higher elevations offer spectacular coastal views of Half Moon Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Routes like the Skyline Trailhead & Boulevard – Purisima Creek Trailhead loop provide a great mix of these landscapes.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)?
The komoot community rates this area highly, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Cyclists often praise the serene redwood groves, the challenging yet rewarding climbs, and the opportunity to ride on quiet roads away from traffic, especially within the preserve's designated areas.
Is there parking available for accessing these no-traffic road cycling routes?
Yes, access points along Skyline Boulevard/Highway 35 typically offer parking. While a specific lower trailhead near Higgins Canyon and Purisima Creek Roads was temporarily closed, other entrances remain accessible. Always check local signage for current parking regulations and availability.
What is the best time of year to go no-traffic road cycling in Purisima Creek Redwoods?
The redwood canyons provide a refreshingly cool escape in summer. Ridge areas can become warm, but the shade of the redwoods offers relief. Spring and fall also offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant natural beauty. Winter can bring rain, but the forest remains beautiful.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic road cycling options?
For an easier, family-friendly ride, consider routes with less elevation gain. The Francis Beach (Half Moon Bay) – Freshman's Creek loop is an easy 15.4 km route with minimal elevation, making it suitable for a more relaxed outing.
Can I expect to see wildlife while cycling?
The preserve is home to various wildlife, including bobcats, mountain lions, coyotes, and rabbits. While sightings are not guaranteed, keeping an eye out, especially during quieter times of day, might reward you with a glimpse of the local fauna.
Are there any cafes or amenities near the no-traffic road cycling routes?
While the preserve itself is focused on natural experiences, you can find cafes and other amenities in nearby towns like Half Moon Bay. Consider routes that start or pass near these areas, such as the Francis Beach (Half Moon Bay) – Miramar Beach loop, for convenient access to refreshments.
What are some notable viewpoints along the no-traffic road cycling routes?
Many higher elevations and northern reaches of the preserve offer panoramic views of the coastline, including Half Moon Bay and the Pacific Ocean. The varied terrain ensures dynamic experiences, with open ridges providing expansive vistas after cycling through dense redwood groves.
Most popular routes in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
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