Eureka Canyon – Top of Eureka Canyon loop from Santa Rosalia Mountain
Eureka Canyon – Top of Eureka Canyon loop from Santa Rosalia Mountain
2.7
(6)
58
riders
Eureka Canyon – Top of Eureka Canyon loop from Santa Rosalia Mountain
02:09
35.0km
630m
Road cycling
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 29, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
17.5 km
Drinking fountain and covered picnic area
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
17.5 km
Eureka Canyon
Highlight (Segment) • Canyon
Tip by
31.8 km
Top of Eureka Canyon
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
35.0 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
35.0 km
Surfaces
28.6 km
6.35 km
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Elevation
Highest point (580 m)
Lowest point (90 m)
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Weather
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Today
Thursday 25 June
23°C
12°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 11.0 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 looking for a road cycling challenge with big rewards, the Eureka Canyon – Top of Eureka Canyon loop from Santa Rosalia Mountain is a moderate 21.7-mile (35.0 km) route that packs in 2054 feet (626 metres) of climbing over about 2 hours and 9 minutes. This ride is perfect for cyclists who appreciate a significant ascent followed by a scenic descent through diverse landscapes, making it a staple for those seeking an epic ride in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
What to expect on Eureka Canyon – Top of Eureka Canyon loop from Santa Rosalia Mountain
The journey on this loop takes you deep into the Santa Cruz Mountains. You'll start with the renowned Eureka Canyon climb, winding through lush redwood forests that offer a quiet, immersive environment. As you ascend, the views open up to rolling hills and even glimpses of the coast. Be prepared for varied road conditions; while some sections have seen repaving, the surface can be rough, especially towards the top, with potholes and cracks. The upper sections, often incorporating roads like Highland Way, transition into oak woods, providing different scenic vistas. This route is best for road cyclists who are ready for a sustained climb and can handle some rougher pavement, rewarding you with spectacular natural beauty.
Planning your visit
The Eureka Canyon climb is a significant undertaking, and while the route name mentions Santa Rosalia Mountain, be aware that the Santa Rosalia Viewpoint itself is typically accessed via unpaved fire roads not suitable for road bikes. The road surface on Eureka Canyon Road can be poor in sections, so ensure your bike is in good condition and you're comfortable with varied pavement. Riding the broader loop counter-clockwise is often recommended for the best descent experience on well-maintained sections. There are no specific permits mentioned, but always carry enough water and supplies for the duration of your ride.
Trail details
- Distance: 21.7 miles (35.0 km)
- Elevation gain: 2054 feet (626 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 9 minutes
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