Santa Cruz Scenic Bike Trails

Sam Working

There is something almost euphoric about riding a bike. It could be that feeling of weightlessness you get when you reach top speed, careening down a hill. Or it could be nostalgia that grips you, your body remembering the elation you felt the first time your training wheels came off and you were free to ride freely.

In Santa Cruz, cyclists of all ages and abilities take to the streets, pathways and trails. We love our bikes in Santa Cruz and whether you have a cruiser or a mountain bike, there are so many scenic locations in the area to explore. There are mountain trails, paved over horse trails that wind around the city and the incomparable West Cliff Drive that twists along the Pacific Ocean, making it the most scenic bike ride you may experience anywhere. Pictured: West Cliff Drive/Shutterstock.

West Cliff Drive

Santa Cruz

Any type of bike will do for this gorgeous stretch of scenery that starts at the Santa Cruz wharf and slopes gently upwards, past Victorian architecture and beachside views as it wraps around Westside Santa Cruz. This popular, paved pathway give cyclists breathtaking views of Cowell Beach, "Indicators" point break, and Steamer Lane. There are benches along the route to rest at and the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum at the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse at Lighthouse Point makes for an interesting stop along the way to Natural Bridges State Park, where the path ends.

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Forest of Nisene Marks State Park

Aptos

This well maintained state park offers rugged semi-wilderness, rising from sea level to jagged coastal mountains. The 10,000 acre park has more than 30 miles of trails, making the former logging site popular with hikers, joggers and cyclists. This is a more rugged biking experience so leave those beach cruisers at home and bring your pedaling legs. Look out for nearby companies, located at the entrance to the park, which offer guided rides or drop-offs at the top of the mountain. For a challenging climb you can also bike to the top yourself and forgo the shuttle. The 10 mile ride up leads you through dense, redwood forest.

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Soquel Avenue / Soquel Drive

Santa Cruz

One of the longest continuous roads in all of Santa Cruz County, Soquel Avenue / Soquel Drive is perhaps the best unguided tour that you can take of the county in an afternoon. Grab the beach cruiser or the mountain bike and start off on the corner of Soquel Avenue and Pacific Avenue in downtown Santa Cruz, then follow the designated bike lane east over the San Lorenzo River, passing by some of the oldest shops and businesses in Santa Cruz. Stop in and grab a snack at Shoppers Corner in Midtown before continuing a few miles to local favorite, Discretion Brewing in Soquel for a relaxing pint. Later, if you still have the energy, jump back on the bike and take Soquel Drive to Aptos. The thoroughfare can get very busy during rush hour, so plan for a safe journey.

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University of California at Santa Cruz

UC Santa Cruz

Nestled in a hilltop overlooking downtown Santa Cruz and the Pacific Ocean, UC Santa Cruz boasts some of the best views in the county. The university allows cyclists to use the campus trails (access roads only) and enjoy their luscious views. Leave the beach cruisers at home; while these trails aren't only for experts they do require some experience and a solid mountain bike. The roads and trails intersect throughout the mountains and parks that surround the campus, providing access to Wilder Ranch State Park, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, and The Pogonip. The Mountain Biking Organization of Santa Cruz is currently working with the university to offer more trails and routes around campus.

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De Laveaga Park

Santa Cruz

While this area may be considered small by mountain biking standards, it is a very popular destination for amateur and experienced mountain bikers alike. The trails are easy to get to; you don't have to drive or hike very far to get started. Stay on the designated paths and look out for hikers. The park has more than 10 miles of trails snaking through the mountainside. So you can go for a short ride or spend hours meandering through them all. Remember to stay clear of the golf course fairways.

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Watsonville Wetlands

Watsonville

This 800-acre freshwater wetland area is one of the largest remaining of its kind in the Central Coast. The wetlands offer seven miles of pathways to cycle, with 29 trail entrances, making it very accessible. Watch out for walkers and joggers. It is also a prime spot to see more than 220 bird species, making it a hit with birdwatchers from across the country.

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