The best traffic-free bike rides around Santa Barbara

There are 10 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Santa Barbara featured in this guide, offering a range of experiences from moderate to difficult.

Santa Barbara offers a diverse range of terrain. You'll find everything from flat coastal paths, like sections of the Modoc Road Multi-use Bike Path – Obern Trail loop, to challenging mountain ascents in the Santa Ynez Mountains. Routes like the La Cumbre Peak loop involve significant elevation gains, providing panoramic views.

Santa Barbara boasts a Mediterranean climate with over 300 days of sunshine annually, making it an excellent year-round destination for cycling. Spring and fall offer particularly pleasant temperatures, but even winter provides mild conditions suitable for riding.

Yes, for families looking for easier, car-free rides, the coastal paths are ideal. The Cabrillo Bike Path, for instance, is a paved, level path offering a relaxing ride along the waterfront. The Modoc Road Multi-use Bike Path – Obern Trail loop also offers a moderate option with less elevation.

Many routes offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains. You can cycle past the historic Santa Barbara Mission, Stearns Wharf, and the Andrée Clark Bird Refuge. For more challenging rides, you'll encounter sweeping mountain vistas on routes like the Gibraltar Road loop.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops to bring you back to your starting point. Examples include the La Cumbre Peak loop for a challenging mountain experience, or the State Street – Obern Trail loop for a moderate ride combining urban and natural scenery.

Parking availability varies by route. For coastal paths and routes starting near the city, public parking lots are often available near beaches or downtown areas. For mountain routes, designated trailheads or roadside parking might be an option, but it's always best to check specific route details for recommended parking spots.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Santa Barbara, with an average score of 4.87 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from ocean views to mountain vistas, and the opportunity to enjoy challenging climbs or relaxing coastal rides away from vehicle traffic.

Yes, especially on routes that pass through natural areas. The Andrée Clark Bird Refuge is a prime spot for birdwatching. Coastal routes may offer glimpses of marine life, while inland paths can provide opportunities to see local flora and fauna in their natural habitats.

Many routes, particularly those closer to urban areas or popular coastal paths, will have cafes, restaurants, and shops nearby. For longer, more remote mountain routes, it's advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks, as amenities may be scarce. Routes passing through the Santa Ynez Valley also offer opportunities for wine tastings.

While not directly on the no-traffic cycling routes themselves, the Santa Barbara region is home to natural attractions like Tangerine Falls. These might require a short hike or a detour from your cycling route to access, offering a great opportunity to combine cycling with a scenic walk.

The routes vary significantly. Moderate routes like the Modoc Road Multi-use Bike Path – Obern Trail loop cover about 32.5 km with around 183 m of elevation gain. More difficult routes, such as the La Cumbre Peak – Stearns Wharf ⛵ Santa Barbara loop, can be over 60 km long with more than 1500 m of climbing.