The best traffic-free bike rides in Lexington Reservoir County Park (Closed Area)

This guide features 3 challenging, traffic-free gravel bike routes in the Lexington Reservoir County Park area. These routes offer diverse terrain and significant elevation changes, perfect for experienced gravel riders seeking a quiet adventure.

You can expect a mix of unpaved surfaces, including gravel paths, dirt roads, and some steep inclines. The routes traverse chaparral-covered hills, shaded oak woodlands, and offer reservoir-side paths, providing a varied and engaging experience. Some sections, like those near the reservoir on the Los Gatos Creek Trail, can have grades up to 45 degrees.

The routes highlighted in this guide are generally considered difficult due to significant elevation gain and varied terrain. For those new to gravel biking, the Los Gatos Creek Trail offers a more accessible gravel surface south of Los Gatos, providing an uninterrupted path away from vehicle traffic for several miles. While not part of the specific routes in this guide, it's a good starting point to experience the area's gravel riding.

The Lexington Reservoir County Park area is generally accessible year-round for day use. Spring is particularly beautiful, with vibrant lupine superblooms and other wildflowers. Fall offers pleasant temperatures and changing foliage. Winter conditions can vary, so it's always wise to check local weather and trail conditions before heading out.

Riders can enjoy panoramic views of the Santa Clara Valley, Mount Umunhum, and the Inner and Outer Coast Ranges. On clear days, you might even spot Monterey Bay. The park is home to diverse habitats including redwood forests, chaparral, grasslands, and oak woodlands. The centerpiece is the picturesque Lexington Reservoir itself, and if water levels are low, you might even see remnants of the submerged towns of Lexington and Alma.

Yes, the area has both historical and geological significance. When reservoir water levels are low, remnants of the submerged towns of Lexington and Alma become visible, offering a glimpse into the past. Geologically, a segment of the renowned San Andreas Fault crosses Los Gatos Creek just south of the reservoir, adding a unique natural feature to the park.

Given the challenging nature and significant elevation changes of these routes, it's recommended to bring plenty of water, snacks, appropriate gear for varied terrain, and a repair kit. Sun protection is also advisable, as some sections may be exposed. Always check the weather forecast before your ride.

Yes, all three routes in this guide are designed as loops. For example, the Blossom Hill - Shannon Road – Mine Hill Trailhead loop from Oak Meadow offers a substantial ride with significant elevation, and the Lexington Reservoir – Los Gatos Creek Trail loop from Santa Rosa Openspace provides a scenic circuit around the reservoir area.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in this area, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the challenging terrain, the expansive views, and the feeling of being immersed in nature away from traffic. The diverse landscapes, from reservoir-side paths to chaparral hills, are frequently highlighted as a major draw.

The nearby town of Los Gatos offers a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants where you can refuel and relax after your gravel biking adventure. It's a popular spot for post-ride refreshments and meals.

Absolutely. The park's diverse habitats support a wide array of wildlife. Birdwatchers can spot coots, ducks, Canada geese, grebes, herons, swans, golden eagles, and red-tailed hawks. Keep an eye out for other local fauna as you ride through the varied ecosystems.