The best traffic-free bike rides around Los Gatos

There are 12 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Los Gatos. These routes offer a mix of moderate and difficult terrain, with 4 moderate and 8 difficult options to choose from.

The no-traffic touring cycling routes in Los Gatos primarily traverse the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains. You can expect diverse terrain ranging from oak-dotted hillsides to redwood-lined creeks. While some sections, like parts of the Los Gatos Creek Trail, are paved and relatively flat, many routes involve significant elevation changes, offering challenging climbs and rewarding descents through scenic landscapes.

While many of the listed routes are rated difficult due to elevation, the Los Gatos Creek Trail is a popular choice for families. It offers a mostly paved, multi-use path that is largely free of vehicle traffic, providing a serene and accessible experience. You can find more information about this trail on the Los Gatos town website.

Many routes offer stunning views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and surrounding valleys. Notable viewpoints and landmarks include the Mount Umunhum Road climb, the Saint Josephs Hill summit, and various vistas overlooking Stevens Creek Reservoir and Guadalupe Reservoir. The Vasona Lake County Park is also a beautiful spot along the Los Gatos Creek.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the challenging Vasona Lake – Mount Umunhum loop from Oak Meadow offers a substantial ride with significant elevation gain. Another option is the Kennedy Trail – Kennedy Trail loop from Oak Meadow, which provides a demanding circular experience.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Los Gatos, with an average score of 4.44 stars. Reviewers often praise the challenging climbs, the serene, car-free environments, and the panoramic views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and reservoirs. The diverse landscapes, from redwood forests to oak woodlands, are frequently highlighted as a major draw.

Dog policies vary by specific trail and park. Generally, dogs on leash are permitted on many multi-use trails, including portions of the Los Gatos Creek Trail and in county parks like Vasona Lake County Park. However, it's always best to check the specific regulations for each park or preserve you plan to visit, as some open space preserves may have stricter rules or designated areas for dogs.

Los Gatos enjoys a favorable Mediterranean climate with approximately 330 days of sunshine annually, making it suitable for cycling year-round. Spring and fall offer particularly pleasant temperatures, ideal for longer rides. Winter can be mild, though occasional rain may occur. Summer can be warm, so early morning rides are recommended during peak heat.

Parking is available at various access points for popular trails. For routes starting near Oak Meadow Park, there is parking available. For the Los Gatos Creek Trail, parking can be found at Vasona Lake County Park and other designated trailheads along its length. For routes venturing into the mountains, check specific trailheads for parking information.

Yes, several routes provide stunning views of the region's bodies of water. The Lexington Reservoir Overlook – Saint Josephs Hill summit loop from Oak Meadow offers vistas of Lexington Reservoir. Additionally, the Los Gatos Creek Trail passes directly through Vasona Lake County Park, providing scenic views of Vasona Lake.

Public transport options in Los Gatos are primarily bus services. While some bus routes may get you close to trailheads, direct access to all no-traffic touring cycling routes, especially those deeper in the Santa Cruz Mountains, might be limited. The Los Gatos Creek Trail is more accessible from urban areas, and you can check local VTA (Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority) schedules for routes that serve Los Gatos.

While popular routes like the Los Gatos Creek Trail can see more activity, venturing into the more challenging mountain routes often provides a quieter experience. Routes like the Collords Peak – Kennedy Trail loop from Santa Rosa Openspace, with its significant elevation, tend to be less frequented by casual cyclists, offering a more secluded ride amidst nature.