Lobitos Creek Road

The Old La Honda Road – Lower Kings Mountain Road loop from Palo Alto is a classic road cycling route that immerses you in the diverse beauty of the Bay Area. You'll climb through the serene redwood groves of Old La Honda Road, where a consistent grade tests your legs under a dense tree canopy, then traverse Skyline Boulevard with its expansive views, and finally ascend through the redwoods of Huddart Park on Kings Mountain Road, often considered even more scenic with glimpses of the San Francisco Bay. This difficult 49.0-mile (78.9 km) ride with 4842 feet (1476 metres) of elevation gain is a true benchmark for experienced cyclists, taking about 4 hours and 10 minutes.

To make the most of this challenging loop, plan an early start, especially if you're riding on a weekend, as Kings Mountain Road can experience higher traffic volumes. While there's no specific parking mentioned for the Palo Alto start, you'll find ample street parking in residential areas. Be sure to carry plenty of water and nutrition for the sustained effort, as this route is designed to push your limits.

This loop is widely regarded as an iconic ride in the region, with Old La Honda Road serving as a benchmark climb for many Bay Area cyclists to measure their fitness. The route's popularity stems from its combination of significant physical challenge, consistent grades, and the stunning, varied scenery that transitions from oak woodlands to dense redwood forests and panoramic viewpoints.

The Manzanita Way – Lower Kings Mountain Road loop from Stanford is a demanding road cycling route that takes you through a beautiful mix of canopied, car-free roads and challenging mountain climbs. You'll experience the tranquil, tree-lined Manzanita Way before tackling the renowned Kings Mountain Road, which ascends through shaded redwood forests and offers spectacular views of the San Francisco Bay. This difficult 81.0-mile (130.3 km) journey, with its 7557 feet (2303 metres) of elevation gain, is a true test of endurance, typically taking around 6 hours and 47 minutes to complete.

To tackle this advanced cycling route, plan for a full day on the bike, starting from Stanford. While much of the route is well-paved, be aware that some sections might be unpaved and difficult, requiring good bike handling skills. There are no specific permits required, but always ensure you carry enough water and supplies for the long duration, as amenities can be sparse on the climbs. This loop is best enjoyed by experienced cyclists with a high level of fitness.

This loop is a classic in the Bay Area cycling scene, known for its challenging climbs and diverse scenery. Kings Mountain Road is particularly famous for its consistent grade and scenic beauty, often considered more difficult than other local climbs like Old La Honda Road. The region offers many variations, allowing you to extend your ride to include other iconic roads like Tunitas Creek Road, where you might even find the unique, honor-system Bike Hut for supplies.