4.9
(9)
1,099
riders
8
rides
Road cycling in Point Mugu State Park features diverse terrain, from coastal roads alongside rocky bluffs and sandy beaches to inland routes through rugged hills and wide grassy valleys. The park encompasses significant elevation changes, including climbs like Black Top Hill, and offers views of the Pacific Ocean and the Channel Islands. Sycamore Canyon and Wood Canyon provide additional varied landscapes for cyclists. The region is characterized by its blend of oceanfront stretches and mountainous backdrops, including the Boney Mountains.
Last updated: July 10, 2026
7
riders
18.4km
01:25
580m
580m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
6
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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7
riders
30.7km
02:15
910m
910m
The road cycling route from Neptune's Net into the Santa Monica Mountains offers a spectacular and challenging ascent, primarily via Yerba Buena Road. As you climb, you'll be treated to ever-changing landscapes, from sweeping ocean vistas and views of the Channel Islands to rugged canyons and distant urban areas. The route culminates with excellent views of Sandstone Peak, the highest point in the Santa Monica Mountains, making for a memorable ride through chaparral-covered hillsides.
This difficult road cycling route covers 19.1 miles (30.7 km) with a substantial 2999 feet (914 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 15 minutes. Starting from Neptune's Net on the Pacific Coast Highway, you'll turn inland onto Yerba Buena Road. Remember, this is a road cycling route on paved surfaces; the actual hiking trails around Sandstone Peak and Circle X Ranch are generally not suitable or permitted for bicycles.
Yerba Buena Road is well-known among cyclists as a demanding "category 1 climb" in the Malibu area, offering a significant workout amidst beautiful natural surroundings. Its scenic vistas and challenging turns have even attracted automakers for commercials. This route is a prime example of the rewarding road cycling routes Santa Monica Mountains have to offer, providing a great test of endurance with relatively low traffic.
36
riders
32.2km
01:57
790m
790m
The South Beach – Leo Carrillo State Park Beach loop from Solromar offers a dynamic road cycling experience, transitioning from the iconic Pacific Coast Highway to the rugged beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains. You'll pedal past extensive coastal views, sandy beaches, and unique rock arches along the ocean, before climbing into a backcountry landscape dotted with chaparral-covered hillsides and serene sycamore groves. This moderate route covers 20.0 miles (32.2 km) with a substantial 2604 feet (794 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 56 minutes.
Planning your ride requires acknowledging the route's varied terrain; while mostly paved, some sections may be unpaved and challenging, possibly necessitating dismounting and pushing your bike. Starting from Solromar, this loop is best enjoyed on clear days to fully appreciate the panoramic views, which can stretch all the way to the Channel Islands. No specific permits are needed for this Leo Carrillo State Park cycling adventure, but good fitness is a must for the challenging ascents.
This loop is a standout for its blend of coastal and mountainous environments, all within Leo Carrillo State Park, a key part of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. Beyond the cycling, the park itself is known for its 1.5 miles of scenic coastline, offering opportunities for swimming, surfing, and exploring tide pools. It's a fantastic option for those seeking a challenging road cycling loop near Solromar with high scenic payoff and diverse natural features.
34
riders
32.1km
01:55
790m
790m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Point Mugu State Park
Sycamore Canyon is really beautiful this time of year (January). There were 7 creek crossings to navigate, so expect wet shoes and socks if you do the entire length of the trail.
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Pick up the Wendy Trail from hear and head off into the Boney Mountain State Wilderness. There are miles and miles of trails to explore, so take your pick and enjoy your run.
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Circle X Ranch features a few different trailheads off of Yerba Buena Road that offer access to different spots on the property. This particular access point serves as the trailhead for the Grotto Trail.
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Smooth and fast descent on the paved section of the road. It continues at the bottom as a still pretty smooth gravel road to the mouth of Sycamore Canyon to the Pacific Coast Highway
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North-Eastern entrance to this amazing park, dropping from the Santa Monica Mountain Range Crest via the smooth Sycamore Canyon Road - and with its continuation as a gravel fire road - to the Pacific coast.
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Neptunes nest is an infamous seafood restaurant with excellent views of the Pacific and beach. Its a perfect spot to take a break and enjoy the views whilst having a bite to eat.
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Nestled in the canyons above Malibu, Circle X Ranch is a hidden gem that offers breathtaking views of the Channel Islands and the Topatopa Mountains. This former Boy Scout camp is a haven for exploration, with many trails that wind through its unique coastal Mediterranean ecosystem. The sprawling ranch is home to a variety of fascinating creatures, including blue-bellied lizards and scrub jays. If you're lucky enough to be here during twilight, keep your eyes peeled for a glimpse of the elusive gray fox, which can sometimes be spotted roaming the grounds.
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The rolling mountain views from this road are fantastic and particularly so during golden hour. The road is lovely too with fast sweeping bends to blast through.
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Point Mugu State Park offers a selection of no traffic road cycling routes. Our guide features 9 distinct routes, ranging from easy to difficult, designed for a peaceful cycling experience away from vehicle traffic.
Yes, Point Mugu State Park has options for less experienced riders. Our guide includes 2 easy no traffic road cycling routes, such as the Native Garden (trailheads) – Big Sycamore Canyon Summit loop from Dos Vientos Open Space, which offers a gentler introduction to the park's scenic beauty.
The elevation gain on these routes varies significantly. While some routes are relatively flat, others, like the challenging Circle X Ranch – Sandstone Peak Trailhead loop from Old Malibu, can feature over 900 meters of ascent. The park's rugged hills and mountainous backdrops mean many routes will include climbs, with some paved sections like Black Top Hill offering sustained 10% grades.
Yes, many of the no traffic road cycling routes in Point Mugu State Park are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Neptune's Net loop from Old Malibu and the Native Garden (trailheads) – Big Sycamore Canyon Summit loop from Dos Vientos Open Space.
Point Mugu State Park offers stunning natural beauty. Along your ride, you might encounter breathtaking ocean views from spots like Upper Sycamore Overlook or Thornhill-Broome Beach North overlook. The park also features beautiful beaches such as Sycamore Cove Beach and the dramatic Point Mugu State Park itself. You might even spot Sycamore Falls after rainfall.
The park is enjoyable year-round, but spring (late winter through late spring) is particularly beautiful, with vibrant wildflower displays. This period also offers a chance to spot migrating whales off the coast. Mild temperatures generally make for pleasant cycling conditions, though coastal fog can occur.
While some routes are challenging, there are easier options that families might enjoy, especially those with some cycling experience. The Native Garden (trailheads) – Big Sycamore Canyon Summit loop is rated easy and could be a good starting point. Always check the route details for distance and elevation to ensure it matches your family's ability.
Parking is available at various access points and campgrounds within Point Mugu State Park. Sycamore Canyon Campground, located inland less than half a mile from the ocean, and Thornhill Broome Campground, right on the beach, are common starting points with parking facilities. Always check for any applicable parking fees.
The komoot community highly rates the cycling experience in Point Mugu State Park, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal and mountain scenery, the variety of terrain, and the opportunity to ride on routes with minimal traffic, providing a peaceful and challenging outdoor adventure.
While Point Mugu State Park is very bike-friendly, it's important to be aware of regulations. Some trails, particularly within the Boney Mountains State Wilderness Area, do not permit bikes. Always check signage and trail descriptions to ensure cycling is allowed on your chosen route. Respect wildlife and other trail users, and pack out everything you pack in.
The routes vary in length to suit different preferences and fitness levels. You can find shorter rides around 18 kilometers, like the Neptune's Net loop from Old Malibu, up to longer, more challenging routes exceeding 57 kilometers, such as the Lake Sherwood Drive – West Potrero Road loop from Arroyo Conejo Nature Preserve.


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