The best traffic-free bike rides in San Mateo County
4.7
(263)
5,681
riders
68
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes in San Mateo County traverse a diverse landscape, from the dramatic Pacific coastline to the serene San Francisco Bay shoreline and the forested Santa Cruz Mountains. The region features extensive trail networks alongside inland reservoirs and through numerous parks and open spaces. This varied terrain offers a mix of flat, paved paths and more challenging routes through hills and woodlands, providing a wide range of experiences for touring cyclists.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes in San Mateo County
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Miramar Beach β El Granada Beach loop from Johnston Ranch, an 18.1 miles (29.1 km) trail that takes 1 hour 50 minutes to complete, offering scenic coastal views and access to sandy beaches.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Jepson Laurel β San Andreas Lake loop from Highlands-Baywood Park, a moderate 16.4 miles (26.4 km) path that winds along the San Andreas Lake with views of the reservoir and surrounding woodlands.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Gray Whale Cove Trail β McNee Ranch State Park loop from Portola Discovery Site of San Francisco Bay, a 17.0 miles (27.3 km) trail leading through coastal cliffs and McNee Ranch State Park, often completed in about 2 hours 39 minutes.
- Touring cycling in San Mateo County is defined by coastal paths, reservoir-side trails, and routes through redwood forests. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy, paved paths to more challenging climbs through hilly parklands.
- The routes in San Mateo County are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 270 reviews. More than 5,700 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore San Mateo County's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
5.0
(11)
125
riders
29.1km
01:51
110m
110m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
62
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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43
riders
17.8km
01:44
450m
450m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
57
riders
15.4km
00:57
160m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
42
riders
58.8km
04:30
1,500m
1,500m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around San Mateo County
Traffic-free bike rides in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve
Traffic-free bike rides in Ravenswood Open Space Preserve
Traffic-free bike rides in Thornewood Open Space Preserve
Traffic-free bike rides in Wunderlich County Park
Traffic-free bike rides in La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve (Closed Areas)
Traffic-free bike rides in Thornewood Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
Traffic-free bike rides in El Corte De Madera Creek Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
Traffic-free bike rides in Miramontes Ridge Open Space Preserve (Closed)
Traffic-free bike rides in Huddart County Park
Traffic-free bike rides in Windy Hill Open Space Preserve
Other adventures in San Mateo County
Tips from the Community
Miramar Beach offers a serene coastal escape with sandy shores and scenic vistas. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the shoreline or explore the nearby California Coastal Trail, which provides stunning ocean views and connects to other local attractions.
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Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir is part of the Crystal Springs Reservoir system, and provides water to the San Francisco Bay Area. The area surrounding the reservoir is rich in biodiversity, home to rare and endangered species like the San Mateo thornmint and the Marin Dwarf Flax. While recreational activities on the water are restricted to protect the watershed, the adjacent Crystal Springs Regional Trail offers scenic views for hikers and cyclists.
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McNee Ranch State Park is a beautifl state park that is part of Montara State Beach and on the western side of Montara Mountain. There are several miles of trails that wind through the park, many with amazing coastal views.
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The Bike Hut is a small hut with fresh water, organic teas and coffee and a variety of snacks for cyclist passing by. It is self-serve and open 24/7. There is also a small picnic area, a bathroom and a message board for posting road conditions or notes to fellow cyclists.
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Tunitas Creek Road is a popular road climb leading up to Kings Mountain. It is normally low traffic and takes you pass beautiful forest and farms.
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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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scenic bike ride along the san andreas reservoir
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in San Mateo County?
Komoot offers nearly 70 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in San Mateo County. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 27 easy, 20 moderate, and 21 difficult options to explore.
What are the best no-traffic routes for beginners or families in San Mateo County?
For an easy and scenic ride, consider the Sawyer Camp Recreation Trail β Jepson Laurel loop from Highlands-Baywood Park. This route offers gentle terrain and beautiful views along the reservoir. Another great option is the Miramar Beach β El Granada Beach loop from Johnston Ranch, providing coastal scenery on an easy path.
Are there any challenging no-traffic touring cycling routes in San Mateo County?
Yes, for experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, San Mateo County offers routes with significant elevation. The Gray Whale Cove Trail β McNee Ranch State Park loop from Portola Discovery Site of San Francisco Bay is a difficult route with over 640 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Egg Rock β Devil's Slide β Devil's Slide Trail loop from Pacifica, which also features substantial climbs and coastal views.
What kind of scenery can I expect on these no-traffic routes?
San Mateo County's no-traffic routes offer incredibly diverse scenery. You can cycle along the dramatic Pacific coastline with sweeping ocean views, through serene redwood forests in the Santa Cruz Mountains, or beside tranquil inland reservoirs like San Andreas Lake. Many routes also feature shoreline parks with views of the San Francisco Bay and restored saltwater marshes.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring cycling routes available?
Yes, many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes in San Mateo County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Jepson Laurel β San Andreas Lake loop from Highlands-Baywood Park, which offers a moderate challenge around the reservoir, and the coastal Miramar Beach β El Granada Beach loop.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions to see along the routes?
Along your rides, you can discover various points of interest. Consider visiting San Bruno Mountain State & County Park for rugged landscapes and expansive views, or the Mori Point Summit Graffiti Bunkers for a unique historical site. For a break, you might find The Bike Hut to be a convenient stop.
What do other touring cyclists say about the no-traffic routes in San Mateo County?
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in San Mateo County, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 270 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's stunning coastal views, the tranquility of the car-free paths, and the diverse terrain that caters to all skill levels.
What is the best season for no-traffic touring cycling in San Mateo County?
San Mateo County generally offers pleasant cycling conditions year-round. Spring brings magnificent displays of wildflowers, especially in areas like Edgewood Park. Summer and fall provide warm, clear days ideal for coastal rides. Even winter can be enjoyable, with milder temperatures compared to other regions, though some trails might be wetter.
Are there places to stay or camp near the no-traffic cycling routes?
Yes, there are options for accommodation. You can find campgrounds like Half Moon Bay Beach Campground or Costanoa KOA Campground. For a more rustic experience, there are also hiker's huts, such as the Hiker's Hut (Sierra Club).
Where can I find more information about San Mateo County for planning my trip?
For general travel information and to help plan your visit to the wider San Mateo County area, you can consult resources like Visit California's San Mateo County page.
Are there any specific events that make no-traffic cycling even better?
Yes, the Crystal Springs Regional Trail system, a popular spot for cyclists, occasionally hosts "Bicycle Sunday." During this event, a 3.8-mile segment of CaΓ±ada Road along the trail is closed to vehicles, providing an entirely car-free cycling experience. Check local event listings for specific dates.
Most popular routes in San Mateo County
Most popular attractions in San Mateo County
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