The best traffic-free bike rides in Mulholland Open Space Preserve

The preserve offers a varied terrain perfect for gravel biking, featuring golden grasslands, serene oak woodlands, and chaparral. You'll find a mix of both paved and unpaved paths, with the unpaved sections providing the classic gravel experience. Expect gentle to moderate elevation changes, offering both scenic rides and some challenging climbs.

While the guide focuses on more challenging routes, the Mulholland Ridge Trail within the preserve offers an easy 2.5-mile out-and-back option, with portions paved, which can be suitable for families looking for a gentler ride. For more extensive gravel biking, routes like Iron Horse Trail – Iron Horse Trail bridge loop from Walnut Creek offer a moderate challenge with varied surfaces.

Yes, dogs are permitted on trails within Mulholland Open Space Preserve. Specifically, on the Mulholland Ridge Trail, dogs are allowed off-leash on the paved sections, but must be kept on-leash on unpaved portions. Always ensure your dog is under control and respect local regulations.

Mulholland Open Space Preserve is renowned for its panoramic views. You'll be treated to stunning vistas of the Moraga Valley, the majestic Diablo Hills (including Mount Diablo), and the wider East Bay hills. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including over 77 species of birds like white-tailed kites and red-tailed hawks, and grazing cattle in certain areas.

Yes, several routes offer a loop experience. For example, the View of Bear Creek – Bear Creek Trailhead loop from Orinda provides a challenging circular ride, while the Iron Horse Trail junction – Heather Farm & Lake loop from Walnut Creek offers an even longer loop for an extended adventure.

The preserve can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and vibrant landscapes. Summers can be hot, so early morning rides are recommended. Winters are typically mild, though trails can be muddy after heavy rains.

Access points with parking are available from Donald Drive in Orinda and the Hacienda de las Flores parking lot in Moraga. Hacienda de las Flores Park also offers amenities like restrooms and picnic sites.

The komoot community rates the area highly, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Riders often praise the stunning panoramic views of the Moraga Valley and Diablo Hills, the diverse mix of grasslands and oak woodlands, and the quiet, traffic-free nature of the trails that allow for an immersive outdoor experience.

While the preserve itself is natural, the nearby towns of Orinda and Moraga offer various options for cafes and restaurants where you can refuel before or after your ride. Hacienda de las Flores Park, an access point, also provides picnic sites if you prefer to bring your own refreshments.

The trails vary in difficulty. While some sections like parts of the Mulholland Ridge Trail are easy, many of the dedicated gravel routes, such as the View of Bear Creek – Bear Creek Trailhead loop from Orinda, are rated as difficult due to their length and elevation changes. There are also moderate options like the Iron Horse Trail – Iron Horse Trail bridge loop from Walnut Creek, ensuring options for different skill levels.