Kennedy Road

The Vasona Lake – Mount Umunhum loop from Oak Meadow offers a diverse and demanding touring bicycle experience, transitioning from flat lakeside paths to steep mountain roads. You'll cycle through varied ecosystems in the Santa Cruz Mountains, with the highlight being the panoramic views from the Mount Umunhum summit, stretching across Silicon Valley to Monterey Bay on clear days. The route combines serene lake scenery with challenging mountain terrain, making it a rewarding journey for fit cyclists.

This difficult 34.3-mile (55.3 km) loop involves a significant 4179 feet (1274 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 4 hours and 9 minutes. The ride starts near Vasona Lake County Park and Oak Meadow Park, where parking is available. Be aware that while much of the route is paved, some sections, including parts of the Mount Umunhum Trail, are unpaved singletrack with hairpin switchbacks and steep descents, requiring good bike handling skills.

The climb to Mount Umunhum is a major draw, known for its steep grades reaching up to 18% in places. The peak, once a military radar station, now provides historical context alongside its stunning viewpoints. This route offers a comprehensive cycling experience, testing endurance and skill across a mix of flat park trails, demanding mountain roads, and technical singletrack, making it one of the best cycling routes near Vasona Lake Mount Umunhum for advanced riders.