Butano Peak – Gazos Creek Road loop from Butano State Park
Butano Peak – Gazos Creek Road loop from Butano State Park
3.4
(13)
51
riders
Butano Peak – Gazos Creek Road loop from Butano State Park
03:20
35.7km
900m
Gravel riding
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 26, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Cloverdale Coastal Ranches
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
10.6 km
Butano Peak
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
30.7 km
Gazos Creek Road
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
35.7 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
24.2 km
9.72 km
1.73 km
121 m
Surfaces
24.2 km
8.20 km
3.37 km
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Elevation
Highest point (710 m)
Lowest point (30 m)
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Weather
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Today
Friday 10 July
18°C
9°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're seeking a truly challenging and rewarding gravel biking experience in the Santa Cruz Mountains, the Butano Peak – Gazos Creek Road loop from Butano State Park is a difficult route that delivers. This 22.2-mile (35.7 km) journey packs in 2944 feet (897 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 19 minutes to complete. It's best suited for experienced riders with very good fitness looking to push their limits on varied terrain.
What to expect on Butano Peak – Gazos Creek Road loop from Butano State Park
This loop immerses you in the natural beauty of the Santa Cruz Mountains, guiding you through lush redwood groves and along picturesque creek beds like Little Butano Creek. The terrain is primarily fire roads and gravel, but be prepared for stretches covered in "chalks" – fine, soft gravel and coarse sand that can make descents, especially the "absolutely wild" Gazos Creek descent, quite treacherous. While the ascent on Butano Fire Road offers a more gentle, extended grade, the significant elevation changes throughout demand consistent effort. You'll ride through expansive views of untouched forests, and even pass a unique, almost-flat "abandoned gravel landing strip" near the highest elevations. Evidence of the 2020 CZU Lightning Complex Fire is still visible, with charred redwood bark contrasting with new growth.
Planning your visit
Before heading out, it's advisable to confirm the current trail status, as the area was significantly impacted by the 2020 CZU Lightning Complex Fire, and some sections may still have uncertain access. A permit, typically $2, is sometimes required to ride in the park, and rangers have been known to check for it in the evenings. Given the challenging conditions, especially the loose gravel and steep grades, wider tires are highly recommended for this route.
Trail details
- Distance: 22.2 miles (35.7 km)
- Elevation gain: 2944 feet (897 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 3 hours and 19 minutes
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