The best MTB trails around Bonny Doon
4.7
(269)
2,674
riders
74
rides
Mountain biking around Bonny Doon offers a diverse landscape for riders. The region features redwood forests, coastal paths, and areas with ranch lands, providing varied terrain. Riders can expect a mix of elevations, from gentle slopes to more challenging climbs, across its network of trails. The area's natural environment provides a scenic backdrop for mountain biking.
Best mountain bike trails around Bonny Doon
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Felix the Cat, Chinquapin, Pipe Dream and Magic Carpet Loopβ¦
Last updated: August 18, 2026
6.43km
00:42
80m
290m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(9)
113
riders
43.5km
03:35
740m
740m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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2.0
(1)
44
riders
23.4km
02:10
620m
620m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
22
riders
21.7km
02:08
520m
520m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Wilder Ranch Bike Path is an entirely paved trail away from the nearby busy highway. The path helps connect Wilder Ranch State Park to Santa Cruz and is open to runners and walkers, too.
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This area is a steep, gullied region containing numerous springs and seeps (areas where water oozes slowly out of the ground). A diverse range of wildlife, including bobcats, cows, eagles, and squirrels, can be found here.
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Winding through lush greenery, this trail provides ample shade. With occasional narrow passages and rocky sections, it adds an intriguing touch to the rideβa journey through nature's captivating terrain.
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Perched along a scenic ridge in Santa Cruz, the Chuck Beebe Scenic Bench makes for the ideal pitstop to appreciate panoramic views while conquering the challenging singletrack on this popular mountain biking trail network. Take a breather at the bench to soak in vistas of the bay before the trail splits.
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This heavily forested area offers ample shade, and you'll encounter wildflowers and lush ferns along the trail, adding to the hike's appeal. Keep in mind that this is a popular mountain biking area, so stay alert and share the trail.
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This section of the trail is relatively open, with lush greenery surrounding it. The wildflowers, especially in the springtime, provide a stunning sight. Keep in mind that this is mountain lion habitat, so exercise caution while in the area.
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This trail winds through lush vegetation, offering plenty of shade. It can be narrow in parts and features some rocky sections, which make for an interesting hike. Since the trail is shared with mountain bikers, it's essential to stay alert.
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This trail offers enjoyable hills as it winds through a shaded area with redwoods and ferns. It's a narrow trail and a popular route for mountain bikers, so it's important to remain alert while hiking.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the overall difficulty range of mountain bike trails in Bonny Doon?
Bonny Doon offers a diverse range of mountain bike trails suitable for various skill levels. You'll find 24 easy trails, 40 moderate trails, and 6 difficult trails, ensuring options for beginners to experienced riders.
Are there easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners or families in Bonny Doon?
Yes, Bonny Doon has 24 easy mountain bike trails perfect for beginners or family outings. A popular choice is the Felix the Cat, Chinquapin, Pipe Dream and Magic Carpet Loop, which is 4.0 miles (6.4 km) long and takes about 42 minutes to complete through varied forest sections.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails in Bonny Doon?
The mountain bike trails in Bonny Doon feature a diverse landscape, including redwood forests, coastal paths, and open ranch lands. Riders can expect a mix of elevations, from gentle slopes to more challenging climbs, providing varied terrain and scenic backdrops.
Are there any challenging mountain bike trails for advanced riders in Bonny Doon?
Yes, for more experienced riders seeking a challenge, Bonny Doon offers 6 difficult mountain bike trails. These routes typically feature more significant climbs and technical sections.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about riding in Bonny Doon?
The mountain bike trails in Bonny Doon are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from nearly 300 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse scenery, which includes redwood forests, coastal views, and ranch lands, as well as the variety of trails available for different skill levels.
Are there mountain bike trails that form a loop in Bonny Doon?
Many mountain bike trails in Bonny Doon are designed as loops, offering a complete riding experience without retracing your steps. Examples include the popular Felix the Cat, Chinquapin, Pipe Dream and Magic Carpet Loop and the longer Cathedral Redwoods β Chuck Beebe Scenic Bench loop from Felton Roaring Camp.
What are some notable natural attractions or landmarks near the mountain bike trails?
While riding, you can explore several natural attractions. Highlights include the majestic Cathedral Redwoods, the unique rock formations at Needle Rock, and the scenic Natural Bridges State Beach. The Fremont Tree is another significant natural monument in the area.
How long do mountain bike rides typically take in Bonny Doon?
Ride durations vary significantly based on the trail's length and difficulty. For instance, an easy trail like the Felix the Cat, Chinquapin, Pipe Dream and Magic Carpet Loop can be completed in about 42 minutes, while a moderate route such as the Wild Boar Trail β Wilder Ranch Bike Path loop from Pineridge might take around 3 hours 34 minutes.
Are there any coastal mountain bike trails in Bonny Doon?
Yes, Bonny Doon offers mountain bike trails that lead through coastal bluffs and provide ocean views. The Four Mile Beach β Needle Rock loop from Empire Grade & Smith Grade is a moderate 35.7 km (22.2 miles) route that takes you along the coast.
What is the best time of year for mountain biking in Bonny Doon?
Bonny Doon generally offers good mountain biking conditions year-round, thanks to its mild climate. However, spring and fall often provide the most pleasant temperatures and trail conditions. Winter riding is possible, but some trails might be muddy after heavy rains, especially in redwood forest sections.
Where can I find trailheads and parking for mountain biking in Bonny Doon?
Trailheads and parking access points are typically located near popular parks and open spaces in the Bonny Doon area. For example, routes like the Cathedral Redwoods β Chuck Beebe Scenic Bench loop can be accessed from areas near Felton Roaring Camp, while other trails might start from Pineridge or Empire Grade & Smith Grade.
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