Putah Creek Loop

The Putah Creek Loop for road cycling features a varied terrain. You'll primarily encounter paved bike/pedestrian trails, including sections of the Putah Creek Parkway. However, some parts of the larger loop, especially those incorporating the Putah Creek North Levee Trail, may include wide, generally flat access roads with both gravel and paved surfaces. The route is largely cycleways (around 82%), with smaller portions on quiet roads (10%) and regular roads (5%), featuring asphalt, concrete, and undefined paved sections. Be prepared for brief transitions onto roads with bike lanes, typically with light traffic.

This specific Komoot tour, the Putah Creek Loop, is rated as difficult for racebike cycling. While many general paths along Putah Creek are considered easy and flat, this particular loop covers a significant distance of approximately 96 kilometers (60 miles) and includes over 1,100 meters (3,700 feet) of elevation gain. This makes it a challenging ride suitable for experienced cyclists.

The route offers picturesque scenery as you cycle alongside Putah Creek, passing through diverse habitats like grassland and oak savannah. You'll have opportunities for wildlife viewing and can observe Valley Oaks, wild California Grape, California Wild Rose, and Fremont Cottonwood trees. Notable points include the Top of Cantelow Road, which offers a viewpoint, and the scenic Putah Creek itself. The loop also often connects to or passes through the beautiful UC Davis Arboretum.

While specific parking for this exact 96km loop isn't detailed, the Putah Creek area in Davis, California, offers various access points. Many cyclists start from areas near the UC Davis campus or downtown Davis, where public parking options are available. For sections along the Putah Creek Parkway, look for designated parking areas or street parking in adjacent neighborhoods, keeping local regulations in mind.

This specific 96-kilometer Putah Creek Loop, with its significant distance and elevation gain, is rated as difficult and is generally not suitable for beginners or young families. However, the broader Putah Creek area offers many shorter, flatter, and easier paved sections, particularly along the Putah Creek Parkway and within the UC Davis Arboretum, which are very family-friendly and suitable for less experienced riders.

The best time to cycle the Putah Creek Loop is typically during the spring and fall months. These seasons offer milder temperatures, making the long distance and elevation more enjoyable. Summers in Davis can be very hot, and while winters are generally mild, you might encounter rain. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.

The Putah Creek area, including many of its multi-use paths, is generally dog-friendly. However, specific leash rules and restrictions may apply in certain sections, especially within the UC Davis Arboretum or protected wildlife areas. Always keep your dog on a leash and be prepared to clean up after them. For the longer road cycling loop, consider if the distance and terrain are appropriate for your dog.

No, you do not typically need a permit or have to pay an entrance fee to cycle the Putah Creek Loop. The paths and roads that make up this route are generally public access. However, if you plan to visit specific facilities or parks along the way, it's always a good idea to check their individual policies.

Given the length of this 96-kilometer loop, you will pass through or near areas with amenities. Starting or ending in Davis, you'll find numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops. Along the route, particularly in more rural sections, amenities may be sparse, so it's advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks. Plan your stops in advance, especially for water refills.

For this challenging 96-kilometer road bike loop, you should bring plenty of water, energy snacks, and appropriate cycling gear. This includes a helmet, comfortable cycling attire, sunglasses, and sunscreen. A repair kit with spare tubes, a pump, and basic tools is essential. Given the varied terrain, a GPS device or a printed map of the route is highly recommended, as some sections might be less clearly marked.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of various paths and roads. It notably follows a portion of the official trail named "California" for about 18% of its length. While the route is primarily a combination of local roads and dedicated cycleways, it connects to the broader network of paths in the Putah Creek area, including those around the UC Davis Arboretum.