Summit of Sanborn County Park – John Nicholas Trail Viewpoint loop from Hakone Gardens

If you're looking for a challenging yet rewarding mountain biking adventure in the Santa Cruz Mountains, the Summit of Sanborn County Park – John Nicholas Trail Viewpoint loop from Hakone Gardens delivers. This difficult 21.0-mile (33.7 km) route packs in 3390 feet (1033 metres) of climbing over roughly 3 hours and 18 minutes, making it a solid choice for experienced riders seeking a sustained effort with great views.

What to expect on Summit of Sanborn County Park – John Nicholas Trail Viewpoint loop from Hakone Gardens

The route takes you through deeply forested terrain, almost entirely shaded by towering second-growth redwoods and tanbark oaks, making it a fantastic summer ride. You'll encounter a mix of hard-packed fire roads and smoother singletrack, with well-designed switchbacks guiding your ascent. A highlight is the picturesque Lake Ranch Reservoir, where the trail opens up before continuing its climb. Push on to the John Nicholas Trail Viewpoint near the summit for rewarding vistas of the South Bay, including Mount Diablo and Oakland. While the climb is sustained and can be demanding, the descent offers an entertaining, twisty, and undulating ride, though be mindful of loose surfaces and occasional rock gardens.

Planning your visit

While the loop is named from Hakone Gardens, direct mountain biking access from there isn't typical; riders usually start from other points like Black Road or Skyline Boulevard. The extensive tree cover means this trail is a great option for riding even in warmer months, and trails generally remain open during the wet season. Always carry enough water, especially on warmer days, as the sustained climbing requires good hydration.

Trail details

• Distance: 21.0 miles (33.7 km)
• Elevation gain: 3390 feet (1033 metres)
• Difficulty: difficult
• Estimated time: 3 hours and 18 minutes