The best traffic-free bike rides in San Mateo County
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No traffic touring cycling routes in San Mateo County traverse a diverse landscape, from the dramatic Pacific coastline to the serene San Francisco Bay shoreline and the forested Santa Cruz Mountains. The region features extensive trail networks alongside inland reservoirs and through numerous parks and open spaces. This varied terrain offers a mix of flat, paved paths and more challenging routes through hills and woodlands, providing a wide range of experiences for touring cyclists.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes in San Mateo County
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Miramar Beach β El Granada Beach loop from Johnston Ranch, an 18.1 miles (29.1 km) trail that takes 1 hour 50 minutes to complete, offering scenic coastal views and access to sandy beaches.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Jepson Laurel β San Andreas Lake loop from Highlands-Baywood Park, a moderate 16.4 miles (26.4 km) path that winds along the San Andreas Lake with views of the reservoir and surrounding woodlands.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Gray Whale Cove Trail β McNee Ranch State Park loop from Portola Discovery Site of San Francisco Bay, a 17.0 miles (27.3 km) trail leading through coastal cliffs and McNee Ranch State Park, often completed in about 2 hours 39 minutes.
- Touring cycling in San Mateo County is defined by coastal paths, reservoir-side trails, and routes through redwood forests. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy, paved paths to more challenging climbs through hilly parklands.
- The routes in San Mateo County are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 270 reviews. More than 5,700 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore San Mateo County's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
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125
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29.1km
01:51
110m
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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Gray Whale Cove Trail β McNee Ranch State Park loop from Portola Discovery Site of San Francisco Bay is a demanding 17.0-mile (27.3 km) route with 2114 feet (644 metres) of elevation gain, rated difficult and taking around 2 hours and 39 minutes. This isn't your typical touring cycling route; it combines the singletrack of Gray Whale Cove Trail with the steep, sometimes rutted fire roads of McNee Ranch State Park, leading up Montara Mountain for spectacular views of the Pacific and San Francisco Bay. It's a journey best tackled by experienced mountain bikers, not those on traditional touring bikes.
Planning your visit requires preparation for varied conditions. Coastal fog and strong winds can roll in quickly, so pack layers. Be mindful of poison oak, which is common in the area. While specific parking for this combined loop isn't clear, you'll find access points for the individual parks. Given the technical terrain, ensure your bike is robust enough for challenging off-road sections.
This route offers a unique blend of coastal bluffs and mountain ascents, providing panoramic vistas from the Portola Discovery Site on Sweeney Ridge and Montara Mountain. While the Gray Whale Cove Trail itself is short and offers stunning ocean views, its singletrack nature, combined with the rigorous climbs and descents within McNee Ranch, makes this a challenging adventure. For a smoother ride, touring cyclists might prefer paved coastal roads like portions of Highway 1 or the Devil's Slide Trail nearby.
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64
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Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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17.8km
01:44
450m
450m
The Egg Rock β Devil's Slide β Devil's Slide Trail loop from Pacifica offers a truly spectacular touring cycling experience along the California coast. You'll ride on a repurposed section of Highway 1, now a paved multi-use path, with constant dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged cliffs. Look for the iconic Egg Rock, a prominent sea stack and seabird colony, and keep an eye out for pelicans, seals, and even whales as you cycle past interpretive signs detailing the area's natural history. The route's moderate difficulty and varied terrain make it a rewarding ride for many.
This 11.1-mile (17.8 km) loop, with 1476 feet (450 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 44 minutes. The Devil's Slide Trail cycling terrain includes a gentle but long uphill section, with a maximum 9% grade, but the wide, dedicated bike lanes ensure a comfortable ride. You'll find convenient amenities like restrooms, water fountains, benches, and bike racks at either end of the main Devil's Slide section, making planning your visit straightforward.
What makes this route particularly special is its history: the Devil's Slide Trail was once a treacherous part of Highway 1, prone to landslides, before being transformed into a safe and accessible recreational path. This innovative conversion provides a unique opportunity to cycle along a truly wild stretch of coastline. It's an excellent choice for those seeking popular routes near Pacifica with breathtaking scenic viewpoints and a chance to spot abundant wildlife.
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15.4km
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The Sawyer Camp Recreation Trail β Jepson Laurel loop from Hillsborough offers a delightful touring cycling experience, winding along the serene Crystal Springs and San Andreas Reservoirs. You'll pedal through a mix of old-growth forests and chaparral, with the impressive 600-year-old Jepson Laurel serving as a memorable landmark midway through your ride. The paved surface makes for a smooth journey, punctuated by a few short, steep climbs that add a moderate challenge to the otherwise gentle terrain.
This popular 9.6-mile (15.4 km) loop, with its 509 feet (155 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 57 minutes to complete. Given its popularity, plan to start your ride early, especially on clear days, to enjoy the tranquil environment and avoid peak crowds. Always carry sufficient water, as consistent drinking fountains are not available, and be aware of the 15 mph speed limit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all trail users.
Beyond the scenic beauty, this route traces the east side of vital reservoirs supplying water to San Francisco and the Peninsula, running through a protected watershed. The trail also follows a historic county road, once a main highway, and lies within the San Andreas Fault rift valley, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, historical context, and geological significance for touring cyclists in San Mateo County.
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Popular around San Mateo County
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Tips from the Community
Once upon a time this was the only general store in this area, serving not only as a general-purpose retailer but also the post office, bank, and informal dentist's office. Nowadays it's a museum, staffed by docents ready to offer drop-in history lessons.
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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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Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir is part of the Crystal Springs Reservoir system, and provides water to the San Francisco Bay Area. The area surrounding the reservoir is rich in biodiversity, home to rare and endangered species like the San Mateo thornmint and the Marin Dwarf Flax. While recreational activities on the water are restricted to protect the watershed, the adjacent Crystal Springs Regional Trail offers scenic views for hikers and cyclists.
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McNee Ranch State Park is a beautifl state park that is part of Montara State Beach and on the western side of Montara Mountain. There are several miles of trails that wind through the park, many with amazing coastal views.
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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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scenic bike ride along the san andreas reservoir
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This scenic, championship-level course offers 36 holes of golf on a bluff overlooking the ocean.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in San Mateo County?
Komoot offers nearly 70 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in San Mateo County. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 27 easy, 20 moderate, and 21 difficult options to explore.
What are the best no-traffic routes for beginners or families in San Mateo County?
For an easy and scenic ride, consider the Sawyer Camp Recreation Trail β Jepson Laurel loop from Highlands-Baywood Park. This route offers gentle terrain and beautiful views along the reservoir. Another great option is the Miramar Beach β El Granada Beach loop from Johnston Ranch, providing coastal scenery on an easy path.
Are there any challenging no-traffic touring cycling routes in San Mateo County?
Yes, for experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, San Mateo County offers routes with significant elevation. The Gray Whale Cove Trail β McNee Ranch State Park loop from Portola Discovery Site of San Francisco Bay is a difficult route with over 640 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Egg Rock β Devil's Slide β Devil's Slide Trail loop from Pacifica, which also features substantial climbs and coastal views.
What kind of scenery can I expect on these no-traffic routes?
San Mateo County's no-traffic routes offer incredibly diverse scenery. You can cycle along the dramatic Pacific coastline with sweeping ocean views, through serene redwood forests in the Santa Cruz Mountains, or beside tranquil inland reservoirs like San Andreas Lake. Many routes also feature shoreline parks with views of the San Francisco Bay and restored saltwater marshes.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring cycling routes available?
Yes, many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes in San Mateo County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Jepson Laurel β San Andreas Lake loop from Highlands-Baywood Park, which offers a moderate challenge around the reservoir, and the coastal Miramar Beach β El Granada Beach loop.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions to see along the routes?
Along your rides, you can discover various points of interest. Consider visiting San Bruno Mountain State & County Park for rugged landscapes and expansive views, or the Mori Point Summit Graffiti Bunkers for a unique historical site. For a break, you might find The Bike Hut to be a convenient stop.
What do other touring cyclists say about the no-traffic routes in San Mateo County?
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in San Mateo County, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 270 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's stunning coastal views, the tranquility of the car-free paths, and the diverse terrain that caters to all skill levels.
What is the best season for no-traffic touring cycling in San Mateo County?
San Mateo County generally offers pleasant cycling conditions year-round. Spring brings magnificent displays of wildflowers, especially in areas like Edgewood Park. Summer and fall provide warm, clear days ideal for coastal rides. Even winter can be enjoyable, with milder temperatures compared to other regions, though some trails might be wetter.
Are there places to stay or camp near the no-traffic cycling routes?
Yes, there are options for accommodation. You can find campgrounds like Half Moon Bay Beach Campground or Costanoa KOA Campground. For a more rustic experience, there are also hiker's huts, such as the Hiker's Hut (Sierra Club).
Where can I find more information about San Mateo County for planning my trip?
For general travel information and to help plan your visit to the wider San Mateo County area, you can consult resources like Visit California's San Mateo County page.
Are there any specific events that make no-traffic cycling even better?
Yes, the Crystal Springs Regional Trail system, a popular spot for cyclists, occasionally hosts "Bicycle Sunday." During this event, a 3.8-mile segment of CaΓ±ada Road along the trail is closed to vehicles, providing an entirely car-free cycling experience. Check local event listings for specific dates.
Most popular routes in San Mateo County
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