The best cycling routes in Coal Creek Open Space Preserve
4.9
(9)
663
riders
31
rides
Touring cycling in Coal Creek Open Space Preserve offers routes through rolling grassy hills and mixed oak woodlands, providing a diverse natural environment. The preserve features seasonal streams and panoramic views of the San Francisco skyline and surrounding hills from its open grassland ridges. Its interconnected trail systems link to a broader network of preserves, facilitating longer rides and extended touring opportunities. The terrain includes varied topography, with some trails featuring steep downhill grades that connect to adjacent open spaces.
Best touring cycling routes in Coal Creek Open Space Preserve
- The most popular touring cycling route is Portola Road β Old La Honda Road loop from Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve, a 33.4 miles (53.7 km) trail that takes 3 hours 59 minutes to complete. This challenging route features significant elevation gain and connects multiple open space preserves.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Borel Hill β Mindego Hill Windmill loop from Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve, a moderate 6.9 miles (11.2 km) path. This route offers scenic views and a balanced cycling experience through varied terrain.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Dwight Crowder Path β Rossotti's Alpine Inn loop from Los Trancos Woods, a 11.5 miles (18.4 km) trail leading through mixed oak woodlands, often completed in about 1 hour 16 minutes.
- Touring cycling in Coal Creek Open Space Preserve is defined by rolling grassy hills, mixed oak woodlands, and expansive panoramic views. The network offers options for various ability levels, from moderate paths to more difficult routes with significant climbs.
- The routes in Coal Creek Open Space Preserve are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from 8 reviews. More than 500 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Coal Creek Open Space Preserve's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 13, 2026
5.0
(1)
63
riders
53.7km
04:00
1,240m
1,240m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
20
riders
41.0km
02:34
460m
460m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5
riders
18.4km
01:16
330m
330m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
22
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
riders
11.4km
00:45
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Once upon a time this was the only general store in this area, serving not only as a general-purpose retailer but also the post office, bank, and informal dentist's office. Nowadays it's a museum, staffed by docents ready to offer drop-in history lessons.
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The Northern part of Alpine Road is a paved and curvy descent through wooded areas and runs parallel to Coal Mine Ridge Preserve, eventually connecting with the trailhead there.
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This mostly paved bike trail alongside Alpine Road is great for bike commuting β just don't run over any slower trail users! The trail runs all the way from Portola Valley to Stanford, offering some nice shade along the way. The brief moments of unpaved trail are near the Portola Valley end.
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Woodside Store was built back in the 1850s by two pioneers who came to California for the gold rush. At the time it was the only stagecoach stop between San Francisco and Santa Clara, and it carried all the essential items that travelers riding between cities might need. The store has been restored, inside and out, to look exactly as it did centuries ago. You can call the museum ahead of your trip to book tours.
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Alameda de las Pulgas Road has consistent traffic but features a good bike lane for safe cycling. The route is straightforward and flat, it works for a smooth ride through the area.
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Gerona Road area is quiet and residential; it is also flat, well-paved and surrounded by some cool trees. Perfect for an easy ride.
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This fantastic tavern, founded in 1852, is the second oldest in the state. It features a large, beer garden-style outdoor area with plenty of shade. An extensive beer and food menu makes it a perfect stop to enjoy a brew and some great food after a ride.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Coal Creek Open Space Preserve, and what are their difficulty levels?
There are over 20 touring cycling routes in Coal Creek Open Space Preserve. The majority, about 15, are rated as moderate, while 6 are considered difficult. There is also 1 easy route available, offering options for various skill levels.
What kind of views and natural features can I expect to see while touring cycling in Coal Creek Open Space Preserve?
Coal Creek Open Space Preserve offers diverse scenery, including rolling grassy hills and mixed oak woodlands. On clear days, you can enjoy panoramic views of the San Francisco city skyline, Mount Tamalpais, the East Bay hills, and Mount Diablo. Seasonal streams and Corte Madera Creek add to the natural beauty, and in autumn, the trees display spectacular orange and red leaves.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Coal Creek Open Space Preserve?
Yes, several routes are designed as loops. For example, you can explore the challenging Portola Road β Old La Honda Road loop from Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve, or the moderate Borel Hill β Mindego Hill Windmill loop from Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve. Another popular option is the Dwight Crowder Path β Rossotti's Alpine Inn loop from Los Trancos Woods.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Coal Creek Open Space Preserve?
Spring is ideal for experiencing the preserve's vibrant wildflowers. Autumn offers a stunning display of blazing orange and red leaves from the tanoak, madrone, California bay, and maple trees. Winter months, especially after rain, might allow you to see a small seasonal waterfall, though some trails can be steep and challenging in wet conditions.
What are the rules for cyclists in Coal Creek Open Space Preserve?
Cyclists are required to use designated trails and adhere to a 15 mph speed limit, which reduces to 5 mph when passing others. Helmets are mandatory, and e-bikes are generally not permitted on the trails.
Can I connect to other preserves from Coal Creek Open Space Preserve for longer rides?
Absolutely. Coal Creek Open Space Preserve's trails serve as important connectors between Skyline Boulevard and Alpine Road. This allows cyclists to access a larger network, including nearby Windy Hill, Russian Ridge, Monte Bello, and Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserves, facilitating extended touring opportunities.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while cycling?
The preserve supports a diverse ecosystem. You might frequently spot deer in the grasslands. Animal prints from coyotes, bobcats, raccoons, and skunks can also be observed, indicating their presence in the area.
Are there any specific viewpoints or scenic spots along the routes?
Yes, from open grassland ridges, you can enjoy expansive views of the San Francisco city skyline, Mount Tamalpais to the north, and the East Bay hills and Mount Diablo to the east. Views of the South San Francisco Bay are also accessible from certain points.
What do other touring cyclists say about their experience in Coal Creek Open Space Preserve?
The touring cycling routes in Coal Creek Open Space Preserve are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from 8 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from rolling hills to mixed woodlands, and the expansive panoramic views.
Are there any routes that pass by historical sites?
While the preserve itself holds historical value as a site where Native Americans once gathered and ground acorns, the Portola Road β Woodside Store (Historic Site) loop from Enid Pearson-Arastradero Preserve is a moderate route that includes a historic site, offering a blend of nature and local history.
Is there a route suitable for a moderate touring cycling experience with good views?
Yes, the Skyline Boulevard Viewpoint β Borel Hill loop from Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve is a moderate route that offers scenic views and a balanced cycling experience through varied terrain, including viewpoints along Skyline Boulevard.
Most popular routes in Coal Creek Open Space Preserve
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