Portola Road – Old La Honda Road loop from Portola Valley

If you're looking for a road cycling route that packs a punch without demanding your entire day, the Portola Road – Old La Honda Road loop from Portola Valley is a fantastic choice. This easy 9.1-mile (14.7 km) loop, featuring 838 feet (255 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 46 minutes, making it ideal for a focused training ride or a quick, scenic escape.

What to expect on Portola Road – Old La Honda Road loop from Portola Valley

The journey begins with a generally flat stretch on Portola Road, allowing you to warm up before the main event. The defining feature of this loop is the climb up Old La Honda Road, a 3.3 to 3.8-mile ascent with an average grade around 7.5%, though you'll encounter brief sections reaching 13% to 15%. This climb is enveloped in canonical California scenery, transitioning from oak woodlands to peaceful redwood groves higher up. While the overall loop is rated easy, the sustained effort of the Old La Honda climb makes it a benchmark for local riders, offering a significant test for cyclists looking to push their limits on a consistent gradient.

Planning your visit

This classic route is extremely popular, especially for training rides, so you'll often share the road with other cyclists. The climb itself is known for its light traffic and generous shade, making it pleasant even on sunnier days. While the descent of Old La Honda Road is discouraged due to its narrow, twisty nature and blind turns, alternative descents like Highway 84 or the Spring Ridge Trail are commonly used. Parking is generally available in Portola Valley, but arriving earlier in the day is always a good idea to secure a spot, especially on weekends.

Trail details

• Distance: 9.1 miles (14.7 km)
• Elevation gain: 838 feet (255 metres)
• Difficulty: easy
• Estimated time: 46 minutes