El Corte De Madera Creek Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
El Corte De Madera Creek Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
The best traffic-free bike rides in El Corte De Madera Creek Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
4.7
(16)
993
riders
4
rides
No traffic road cycling routes in El Corte De Madera Creek Open Space Preserve (Closed Area) traverse the Santa Cruz Mountains, offering a diverse and challenging terrain for road cyclists. The region is characterized by steep ascents and descents, winding through dense redwood and mixed evergreen forests. Creekside trails and fire roads provide varied surfaces, while some sections offer panoramic ocean views. The preserve's landscape includes unique Tafoni sandstone formations and remnants of historical logging, contributing to a distinct cycling environment.
Best no traffic road cycling routes in El Corte De Madera Creek Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
- The most popular no traffic road cycling route is Kings Mountain Road – Lower Kings Mountain Road loop from Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve, a 10.8 miles (17.4 km) trail that takes 1 hour 11 minutes to complete. This moderate route features significant elevation changes through redwood forests.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Lobitos Creek Road – Higgins Canyon Road loop from Skeggs Point, a difficult 36.2 miles (58.3 km) path. This route is known for its challenging climbs and descents, offering extensive views of the surrounding mountains and occasional glimpses of the Pacific Ocean.
- Local road cyclists also love the Skyline Trailhead & Boulevard – Purisima Creek Trailhead loop from Phleger Estate (GGNRA), a 19.5 miles (31.4 km) trail leading through dense redwood and mixed evergreen forests, often completed in about 1 hour 48 minutes.
- Road cycling in El Corte De Madera Creek Open Space Preserve (Closed Area) is defined by challenging climbs, shaded redwood forests, and varied terrain including fire roads. The network offers options for moderate to difficult ability levels, catering to experienced road cyclists.
- The routes in El Corte De Madera Creek Open Space Preserve (Closed Area) are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 17 reviews. More than 1,500 road cyclists have used komoot to explore El Corte De Madera Creek Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)'s varied terrain.
Last updated: July 10, 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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25
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5.0
(2)
12
riders
23.8km
01:13
420m
420m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
123
riders
24.6km
01:56
640m
640m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around El Corte De Madera Creek Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
Tips from the Community
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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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.
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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.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available in El Corte De Madera Creek Open Space Preserve?
There are 5 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes in El Corte De Madera Creek Open Space Preserve. These routes offer a range of challenges, with 4 rated as moderate and 1 as difficult, providing options for various skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these no-traffic road cycling routes?
The no-traffic road cycling routes in El Corte De Madera Creek Open Space Preserve are known for their steep, challenging, and often technical terrain. You'll be cycling through dense redwood and mixed evergreen forests, which provide ample shade, making for a cooler ride even on warmer days. The elevation gains can be significant, offering a rewarding workout.
Are there any circular no-traffic road cycling routes in the preserve?
Yes, several routes offer a circular experience. For example, the Kings Mountain Road – Lower Kings Mountain Road loop from Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve is a moderate 17.4 km loop. Another option is the more challenging Lobitos Creek Road – Higgins Canyon Road loop from Skeggs Point, which spans 58.3 km.
What are some scenic highlights or viewpoints I can expect along these routes?
While cycling these routes, you'll be immersed in lush redwood and mixed evergreen forests. Keep an eye out for unique geological features like the Tafoni sandstone formations. Certain vantage points, such as those accessible from the Fir Trail (though not directly on all road cycling routes), can offer fabulous coastal views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. You might also spot historical logging remnants, providing a glimpse into the area's past.
What is the best time of year to go no-traffic road cycling in El Corte De Madera Creek Open Space Preserve?
The preserve's trails are predominantly shaded, offering a cool escape, especially during warmer months. Many trails are ridable even in wet conditions, though coastal fog can lead to dampness year-round. Generally, spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures, but the shaded nature of the routes makes them enjoyable for much of the year.
Are there any particularly challenging no-traffic road cycling routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. The Lobitos Creek Road – Higgins Canyon Road loop from Skeggs Point is rated as difficult, covering 58.3 km with over 1170 meters of elevation gain. This route provides a significant challenge for advanced road cyclists looking for a demanding, traffic-free experience.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about the no-traffic routes here?
The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience in El Corte De Madera Creek Open Space Preserve, with an average score of 4.72 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the challenging climbs, the serene beauty of the redwood forests, and the quiet, traffic-free roads that allow for an immersive cycling experience away from vehicles.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic road cycling options?
The terrain in El Corte De Madera Creek Open Space Preserve is generally steep and challenging, with all listed no-traffic road cycling routes rated moderate to difficult. While the traffic-free nature is appealing, the physical demands might be more suitable for families with older, experienced cyclists rather than young children or beginners. Consider the shorter, moderate routes like the Lower Kings Mountain Road – Kings Mountain Road loop from Teague Hill Open Space Preserve (14 km) if your family is up for a challenge.
What kind of flora and fauna might I encounter while cycling?
The preserve is rich in biodiversity. You'll cycle through forests featuring starflower, wild rose, big leaf maple, and California bays. After rain, you might spot moss, various mushrooms, and even banana slugs, adding to the natural charm of your ride.
Where can I find parking for these no-traffic road cycling routes?
Parking is typically available at trailheads and designated areas around the preserve. For routes like the Skyline Trailhead & Boulevard – Purisima Creek Trailhead loop from Phleger Estate (GGNRA), you would look for parking near the Skyline Trailhead or other access points to the preserve. Always check local regulations for specific parking instructions and potential fees.
Are there any cafes or places to refuel near the no-traffic road cycling routes?
While the preserve itself is a natural area, you'll find small towns and communities nearby, such as Woodside, which offer cafes and other amenities where you can refuel before or after your ride. It's always a good idea to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially for longer routes, as services might not be directly on the trails.
Most popular routes in El Corte De Madera Creek Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
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