4.9
(24)
1,417
riders
11
rides
No traffic road cycling routes around Lexington Hills are characterized by rolling hills, lush forests, and expansive open space preserves within the Santa Cruz Mountains. The region features varied terrain, including the Lexington Reservoir and its surrounding parklands, providing diverse environments for road cycling. Cyclists encounter both challenging ascents and exhilarating descents through mountainous environments and dense forests.
Last updated: August 23, 2026
5.0
(1)
37
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
10
riders
49.7km
03:27
1,040m
1,040m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
11
riders
39.2km
02:14
880m
890m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Granite Creek Road is a quiet local road between Scotts Valley and Soquel, with light traffic and a steady, manageable climb. The pavement is generally good, and itβs a practical way to connect to longer rides through the Santa Cruz Mountains. Itβs mostly shaded, which makes the ascent more comfortable.
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A scenic stop just off the winding roads of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Lexington Reservoir County Park is a great spot to catch your breath and enjoy the view. The smooth pavement along Alma Bridge Road makes it a popular stretch for cyclists, with rolling terrain and minimal traffic. There's parking, restrooms, and shaded areas if you need a break. From here, you can loop toward Los Gatos or push deeper into the climbs of Highway 17 and Old Santa Cruz Highway.
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Los Gatos Coffee Roasting Company has been crafting coffee since 1982, becoming a beloved gathering spot for locals. They offer local wines, craft beers, and live music events on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 7β9 PM. Visitors can enjoy espresso, tea, pastries, and fresh coffee beans to take home. Seating is available indoors, outdoors, and in a designated parklet.
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Forbes Mill Museum, housed in a two-story building of the original 1854 flour mill, offers a glimpse into Los Gatos' history. Built by James Alexander Forbes as California's first commercial flour mill, over the years, it served various roles, including a power plant and a PG&E substation. Saved from demolition in 1982, the building now features historical exhibits as part of New Museum Los Gatos.
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From the top of the dam you get splendid views out across Lexington Reservoir. To the north you overlook the winding end of the Los Gatos Creek Trail, which connects to the Jones Trail across from the restroom just up the road. The dam itself was constructed in 1952 and stands at nearly 200 feet tall.
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Great coffee βοΈ friendly helpful staff and a fantastic place to watch the world π go byβ¦
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The Santa Cruz Riverwalk runs along the San Lorenzo River levee from the Highway 1 Bridge to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, providing easy access to downtown Santa Cruz.
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The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is California's oldest surviving amusement park. This 24-acre park was founded in 1907 and offers old-fashioned carnival games and food booths.
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Lexington Hills offers a good selection of no-traffic road cycling routes, with 10 routes featured in this guide. These routes are designed to provide a serene cycling experience away from vehicle congestion.
The no-traffic road cycling routes in Lexington Hills feature varied terrain, from rolling hills and lush forests to challenging mountain ascents. You can expect mostly paved surfaces, with some routes offering significant climbs like those leading to panoramic viewpoints. The landscape provides both demanding sections and exhilarating descents.
Yes, the routes cater to various skill levels. While there are no easy routes listed in this guide, you'll find 6 moderate routes and 4 difficult routes. Experienced riders looking for a challenge can explore options like the James J. Lenihan Dam β Forbes Mill Museum loop, which features over 1000 meters of elevation gain.
Many routes offer stunning natural features. You can cycle past significant bodies of water like Lexington Reservoir and Vasona Lake. The area also boasts impressive peaks and viewpoints, including the challenging Mount Umunhum Road climb and scenic spots like Randol Trail.
Yes, several no-traffic road cycling routes in Lexington Hills are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Granite Creek Road β Santa Cruz Boardwalk loop and the Mountain Charlie Road β Mountain Charlie Rd loop, offering convenient round trips.
The no-traffic road cycling routes in Lexington Hills are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 16 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet roads, challenging climbs, and the beautiful natural scenery, especially around the reservoirs and mountain viewpoints.
Lexington Hills generally offers good cycling conditions for much of the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer can be warm, especially on exposed climbs, while winter might bring cooler temperatures and occasional rain. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a significant challenge, routes like the James J. Lenihan Dam β Forbes Mill Museum loop are classified as difficult, featuring substantial elevation gains and longer distances. These routes will test your fitness and reward you with expansive views.
Parking is typically available at various access points and parks surrounding the routes. For instance, areas near Lexington Reservoir County Park or other regional parks often provide parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific route details for recommended starting points and parking options.
Yes, if you're looking for longer rides, Lexington Hills has options that can keep you on the road for several hours. The Granite Creek Road β Santa Cruz Boardwalk loop, for example, covers over 53 kilometers and takes approximately 2 hours and 48 minutes, offering a substantial ride.


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