The best traffic-free bike rides in Long Ridge Open Space Preserve

There are 14 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes available in Long Ridge Open Space Preserve, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels.

The preserve offers diverse terrain, from cool, creekside forests to expansive grasslands. The routes primarily consist of well-maintained dirt trails, making them ideal for gravel bikes or stout touring bikes. You'll encounter a mix of ascents and descents, with some segments requiring good to very good fitness.

While many routes are moderate to difficult, the preserve does offer segments suitable for various skill levels. For a moderate option that provides a good mix of habitat, shade, and views, consider the Long Ridge Loop, which is a popular 4.3-mile route within the preserve. You can also find routes with less extreme elevation changes, though specific 'easy' touring routes are not explicitly listed in the data provided.

Cyclists can enjoy stunning panoramic views over the Santa Cruz Mountains, Pescadero Valley, the Bay Area, and the Pacific Ocean. Key viewpoints include the Turtle Rock Viewpoint and the Wallace Stegner Memorial Bench, which offers unobstructed views of the forested mountains receding toward the ocean. The preserve itself, Long Ridge Open Space Preserve, is a highlight for its natural beauty.

Spring is particularly beautiful due to the vibrant wildflowers, including California poppies and lupines, that blanket the grasslands. The views are generally clear on most days. While summer offers dry trails, early spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and lush scenery. Be aware that some trails may close to bicycles during wet winter conditions to prevent erosion.

Yes, there are several loop options available. For example, the Borel Hill – Mindego Hill Windmill loop from Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve and the Skyline Boulevard Viewpoint – Borel Hill loop from Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve offer moderate loop experiences. For a more challenging ride, consider the Montebello Road loop from Picchetti Ranch Open Space Preserve.

The preserve is home to various wildlife. Cyclists might spot wild turkeys, feral pigs, and coyotes, especially on the dustier trails during summer months. The diverse ecosystems also support a variety of bird species.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning panoramic views, the quiet and diverse natural landscapes, and the well-maintained dirt trails that provide an excellent no-traffic cycling experience.

Long Ridge Open Space Preserve is a preserve, not a park, meaning there are generally no facilities such as restrooms, drinking water fountains, picnic tables, or snack bars directly within the preserve. It's essential to come prepared with all necessary supplies.

The routes vary significantly in length. For instance, the Borel Hill – Mindego Hill Windmill loop is about 11 km, while more extensive tours like the Old Ranch Trail – White Oak Trail loop can be over 37 km, offering options for shorter rides or longer, more challenging excursions.

Public transport options directly to the preserve are limited. Most visitors access Long Ridge Open Space Preserve by car, often parking near trailheads. It's advisable to check local transit authority websites for any specific routes that might serve the area, though direct access is not common.

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like the Stevens Creek Reservoir – Black Mountain loop from Picchetti Ranch Open Space Preserve, covering over 31 km with significant elevation gain, are classified as difficult. The Old Ranch Trail – White Oak Trail loop is another difficult option, spanning over 37 km.