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A ride primarily on trails (paved or dirt)     A ride primarily on roads with traffic

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Fun
2
Scenic
6
Aerobic
2
Technical
1

Alameda Creek Trail

Alameda Creek Trail

A casual ride on an easy and flat recreational trail that is not too special other than being somewhat more scenic than usual and giving you a choice of paved or dirt riding.

23 miles       300' climb       3 hours       62% FIRE ROAD38% PAVED
Fun
5
Scenic
3
Aerobic
5
Technical
2

Almaden Quicksilver Park

Almaden Quicksilver Park

A fire-road ride along the park's main bike-legal loop with plenty of short side trips to take in the sights of historic mining structures

12.5 miles       2200' climb       3 hours       100% FIRE ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
7
Aerobic
7
Technical
4

Alpine Road to Windy Hill

Alpine Road to Windy Hill

A long loop that strings together a little bit of everything, within easy access from the Peninsula and the South Bay.

16.5 miles       2750' climb       3.5 hours       21% SINGLETRACK41% FIRE ROAD38% ROAD
Fun
4
Scenic
10
Aerobic
3
Technical
2

Angel Island

Angel Island

A ride easy enough for the entire family (especially in shortened form), with panoramic views of the bay. Some sites of historic interest are also available as a bonus.

10.5 miles       1350' climb       2.5 hours       49% FIRE ROAD51% PAVED
Fun
9
Scenic
4
Aerobic
8
Technical
8

Annadel (Suggestion 1)

Annadel (Suggestion 1)

A full-blown mountain biking playground with a first-class trail network large enough for all-day rides and technical enough for the most serious riders.

18.5 miles       2350' climb       5 hours       70% SINGLETRACK30% FIRE ROAD
Fun
8
Scenic
3
Aerobic
6
Technical
7

Annadel (Suggestion 2)

Annadel (Suggestion 2)

A relatively short technical singletrack ride, though still a very fun one at this wonderful mountain biking "amusement park".

12 miles       1800' climb       3.5 hours       75% SINGLETRACK14% FIRE ROAD11% ROAD
Fun
8
Scenic
4
Aerobic
6
Technical
7

Annadel (Suggestion 3)

Annadel (Suggestion 3)

A route that provides lots of technical singletrack in exchange for little uphill suffering, like most Annadel rides. But, this one should also be tried in the opposite direction.

13 miles       1750' climb       3 hours       58% SINGLETRACK42% FIRE ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
4
Aerobic
4
Technical
4

Arastradero

Arastradero

A small city park with a reasonable selection of singletrack and fire roads that would be a good place for a beginner due to having no big climbs, as well as a "quickie" option for an experienced rider.

7 miles       1350' climb       2 hours       63% SINGLETRACK37% FIRE ROAD
Fun
5
Scenic
4
Aerobic
4
Technical
3

Berry Creek Falls

Berry Creek Falls

(CURRENTLY CLOSED) An easy out-and-back fire-road ride that reaches a pretty waterfall after an additional half-mile hike. Plus, you end up at the beach when you finish the ride. Not bad.

13 miles       1200' climb       3 hours       26% SINGLETRACK67% FIRE ROAD7% PAVED
Fun
4
Scenic
2
Aerobic
7
Technical
3

Big Basin

Big Basin

(CURRENTLY CLOSED) This big and remote park is not a prime destination for mountain biking, but still provides a few opportunities for a forest ramble like this one.

13.5 miles       2350' climb       3.5 hours       2% SINGLETRACK44% FIRE ROAD54% ROAD
Fun
5
Scenic
3
Aerobic
10
Technical
2

Big Basin - Boulder Creek Loop

Big Basin - Boulder Creek Loop

A long and tough ride that's enough to satiate the hungriest fans of mountain roads or forested rides. A peek at Big Basin's old-growth redwoods and a stop at a charming mountain town are the highlights.

43 miles       4800' climb       6 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
4
Scenic
8
Aerobic
8
Technical
3

Big Rock Ridge

Big Rock Ridge

A sweet, 2.5-mile singletrack descent marred by the brutal climb to get to its beginning, though the great views almost make up for it.

14 miles       2900' climb       3.5 hours       20% SINGLETRACK47% FIRE ROAD33% ROAD
Fun
4
Scenic
7
Aerobic
7
Technical
2

Black Diamond Mines

Black Diamond Mines

A ride that provides a heaping dose of mining history and a heaping dose of fire road riding, through admittedly interesting terrain (though not from a mountain-biking point of view).

14.5 miles       3400' climb       4 hours       95% FIRE ROAD5% PAVED
Fun
5
Scenic
7
Aerobic
8
Technical
5

Bolinas Ridge (long loop)

Bolinas Ridge (long loop)

A scenic ride that puts together an unfun singletrack and a fun fire road in a long, mixed loop in a very pretty Marin location.

27 miles       3850' climb       5.5 hours       17% SINGLETRACK45% FIRE ROAD38% ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
6
Aerobic
5
Technical
5

Bolinas Ridge (short loop)

Bolinas Ridge (short loop)

A ride whose one half is over-tame and whose other half features a (short but) torturous climb. But, it still manages to include some of the most scenic stretches of what must be one of Marin's most fun fire roads.

13.5 miles       1600' climb       2.5 hours       68% FIRE ROAD24% PAVED8% ROAD
Fun
5
Scenic
7
Aerobic
6
Technical
2

Briones (Suggestion 1)

Briones (Suggestion 1)

A short fire-road loop over the roller coaster of rolling East Bay hills that follows ridgetops along most of its length.

8 miles       2000' climb       2 hours       7% SINGLETRACK89% FIRE ROAD4% ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
6
Aerobic
8
Technical
3

Briones (Suggestion 2)

Briones (Suggestion 2)

A strenuous ride through picturesque terrain with occasional views, but on trails that only fire road lovers could cherish.

14 miles       3400' climb       4 hours       100% FIRE ROAD
Fun
5
Scenic
6
Aerobic
4
Technical
4

Brushy Peak

Brushy Peak

A short ride at what is no more than a local workout option, but it's not without a pleasant surprise. Be prepared for climbs and for the absence of shade though.

6.5 miles       1400' climb       1.5 hours       26% SINGLETRACK74% FIRE ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
5
Aerobic
6
Technical
5

Butano State Park

Butano State Park

The only bike ride in this park is this fire-road loop, but the main climb is relatively gentle, the nature is gorgeous, and where else can you bike your way to a landing strip on a mountain top?

14.5 miles       2750' climb       3.5 hours       87% FIRE ROAD13% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
7
Aerobic
8
Technical
3

Calaveras Road

Calaveras Road

A scenic and easy local favorite turned into a torture fest with the addition of a brutal extension, which you can easily leave out.

42.5 miles       4300' climb       4.5 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
5
Scenic
7
Aerobic
3
Technical
2

Calero County Park

Calero County Park

A rare example of a beginner ride that approximates a "real" mountain bike ride as long as one can handle a modest amount of climbing. And the scenic and pretty setting is a bonus for riders of all skill levels.

9.5 miles       950' climb       1.5 hours       70% SINGLETRACK29% FIRE ROAD1% ROAD
Fun
8
Scenic
4
Aerobic
6
Technical
8

Camp Tamarancho

Camp Tamarancho

Beautiful, twisty, bike-legal, technical singletrack. A true rarity in Marin County. This is one of the best rides on the site.

11 miles       1900' climb       3.5 hours       70% SINGLETRACK2% FIRE ROAD28% ROAD
Fun
3
Scenic
5
Aerobic
2
Technical
1

CaƱada Road

Canada Road

An easy and nearly flat out-and-back road ride that would make a good candidate for a moderate workout ride if done quickly or a scenic casual ride if you take it slowly.

18.5 miles       1000' climb       2 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
4
Scenic
8
Aerobic
4
Technical
2

Carquinez Scenic Drive

Carquinez Scenic Drive

An easy and nicely scenic road ride option that can fit the bill when you don't have too much time for your ride, unless you greatly extend it by using one of many options.

19 miles       1600' climb       2.5 hours       10% PAVED90% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
8
Aerobic
7
Technical
2

Cheese Factory Loop

Cheese Factory Loop

Easily one of the prettiest, most scenic, and most secluded road rides you can do in Marin, and it doesn't even take extraordinary physical shape to pull it off.

35 miles       2650' climb       4 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
8
Scenic
7
Aerobic
4
Technical
4

China Camp

China Camp

The most fun, sweetest, and most scenic beginner-level singletrack that you can find in the Bay Area.

11 miles       1500' climb       3 hours       93% SINGLETRACK6% FIRE ROAD1% ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
9
Aerobic
7
Technical
2

Coleman Valley Loop

Coleman Valley Loop

A manageable road loop through the idyllic Sonoma coast and countryside providing tiny historic towns, one-room schoolhouses, hearty seafood, and great views, but coming at the cost of several short but steep climbs.

34.5 miles       3200' climb       4.5 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
7
Aerobic
8
Technical
3

Coyote Creek Loop

Coyote Creek Loop

This ride does a good job of keeping you out of too much traffic and avoiding too many grueling climbs, and features an unusual mix of paved suburban trails and secluded backroads.

28.5 miles       2450' climb       3 hours       51% PAVED49% ROAD
Fun
5
Scenic
4
Aerobic
3
Technical
1

Coyote Creek Trail

Coyote Creek Trail

A long out-and-back ride on a flat-and-easy paved recreational trail. Friendly enough for the whole family and long enough to while away most of the day (at family-riding speeds).

31.5 miles       800' climb       3 hours       100% PAVED
Fun
2
Scenic
8
Aerobic
3
Technical
2

Coyote Hills

Coyote Hills

A small but scenic park with mostly flat dirt-road riding with a handful of short and steep climbs thrown in.

13 miles       1250' climb       2 hours       2% SINGLETRACK71% FIRE ROAD26% PAVED1% ROAD
Fun
8
Scenic
8
Aerobic
6
Technical
4

Crockett Hills

Crockett Hills

A true mountain biking gem that unexpectedly shot up to being the most desirable East Bay park for sweet singletrack and great views, not to mention three flow trails.

12.5 miles       2100' climb       3 hours       79% SINGLETRACK20% FIRE ROAD1% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
3
Aerobic
5
Technical
5

DeLaveaga Park

DeLaveaga Park

This little gem of a park is chock-full of sweet forest singletrack, though it still doesn't add up to more than a local option.

8 miles       1400' climb       2.5 hours       90% SINGLETRACK8% FIRE ROAD2% ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
7
Aerobic
7
Technical
4

Del Valle

DelValle

A bit of a hidden gem in the amount of available singletrack with respect to other East Bay parks, though that's only true for this one route. A scenic, non-technical ride, for those who are okay with some steep climbs.

14 miles       2700' climb       2.5 hours       45% SINGLETRACK55% FIRE ROAD
Fun
9
Scenic
2
Aerobic
8
Technical
8

Demo Forest (Braille Trail)

Demo Forest (Braille Trail)

What used to be the most-often-ridden route at this prime mountain biking destination before Flow Trail was added. It descends the steep and technical Braille Trail.

12.5 miles       2200' climb       3.5 hours       38% SINGLETRACK46% FIRE ROAD16% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
1
Aerobic
6
Technical
7

Demo Forest (Corral Trail)

Demo Forest (Corral Trail)

The shortest "full" loop you can make at Demo Forest. It misses some of the best trails, but might fill a need for an easier ride or for a second loop.

11 miles       1800' climb       2.5 hours       23% SINGLETRACK59% FIRE ROAD18% ROAD
Fun
10
Scenic
2
Aerobic
7
Technical
8

Demo Forest (Flow Trail)

Demo Forest (Flow Trail)

This route uses the newest trail at Demo to complete the loop, which is only the second flow trail built anywhere around the Bay Area.

14.5 miles       2450' climb       3.5 hours       43% SINGLETRACK44% FIRE ROAD13% ROAD
Fun
9
Scenic
2
Aerobic
8
Technical
8

Demo Forest (Sawpit Trail)

Demo Forest (Sawpit Trail)

The longest single loop possible at this first-rate mountain biking destination.

15 miles       2750' climb       4 hours       39% SINGLETRACK49% FIRE ROAD12% ROAD
Fun
8
Scenic
3
Aerobic
6
Technical
1

East Bay Canyons

East Bay Canyons

An easily overlooked, out-of-the-way ride that involves relatively little physical challenge, a fair amount of solitude, and just as much beauty and fun as many routes that are much more popular.

36 miles       2350' climb       3.5 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
4
Scenic
7
Aerobic
7
Technical
3

El Sereno

El Sereno

This preserve does not provide any good loop options but, as long as you're okay with climbing on fire roads, this is a good and scenic workout option for this vicinity.

11 miles       2300' climb       2.5 hours       66% FIRE ROAD34% ROAD
Fun
4
Scenic
2
Aerobic
8
Technical
1

Empire Grade Loop

Empire Grade Loop

A stiff workout with a good mix of woodland solitude and mountain settlements when done as a loop. Arguably even more satisfying when done as an out-and-back instead.

36.5 miles       3650' climb       4.5 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
9
Aerobic
8
Technical
3

Fairfax to Mount Tam Loop

Fairfax to Mount Tam Loop

A road ride that encircles Mount Tam, providing forests, one lake, ocean views, enticingly curvy roads, and a string of suburban towns.

31.5 miles       3700' climb       4 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
8
Aerobic
5
Technical
4

Fernandez Ranch

Fernandez Ranch

A small park that can reward with a surprising percentage of singletrack as well as a pretty and scenic setting especially in the right season, as long as you're okay with a short ride.

8.5 miles       1550' climb       2 hours       73% SINGLETRACK26% FIRE ROAD1% PAVED
Fun
3
Scenic
5
Aerobic
2
Technical
1

Foothill Expressway

Foothill Expressway

A flat, safe, and easy (if a little busy) road ride that is an option that's obvious to all locals, and whose main appeal is as a starting point for longer rides rather than as this brief out-and-back.

19 miles       650' climb       1.5 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
3
Scenic
4
Aerobic
4
Technical
2

Fifield-Cahill Ridge

Fifield-Cahill Ridge

A fire-road ride you can do by reservation only, on a fairly easy trail along the Peninsula that you don't normally get to see.

12.5 miles       1600' climb       2.5 hours       100% FIRE ROAD
Fun
8
Scenic
4
Aerobic
9
Technical
6

Fort Ord (2007 Sea Otter course)

Fort Ord (2007 Sea Otter course)

A long and challenging trail ride along what used to be the course of the Sea Otter cross-country race.

19.5 miles       3500' climb       6 hours       34% SINGLETRACK54% FIRE ROAD2% PAVED10% ROAD
Fun
8
Scenic
5
Aerobic
9
Technical
6

Fort Ord (2012 Sea Otter course)

Fort Ord (2012 Sea Otter course)

Another long and rewarding trail ride in this huge playground, this one along a more recently used Sea Otter race course.

21.5 miles       3500' climb       4.5 hours       40% SINGLETRACK50% FIRE ROAD3% PAVED7% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
6
Aerobic
5
Technical
4

Fort Ord (eastern trails)

Fort Ord (eastern trails)

A comparatively easy loop for those interested more in exploring as much of Fort Ord singletrack as possible than in replicating a Sea Otter race course.

12.5 miles       2050' climb       3 hours       49% SINGLETRACK50% FIRE ROAD1% ROAD
Fun
5
Scenic
4
Aerobic
5
Technical
3

Fremont Older

Fremont Older

A small park that has some very nice ride possibilities for locals, but does not offer enough to be considered a riding destination.

6.5 miles       1300' climb       1.5 hours       49% SINGLETRACK51% FIRE ROAD
Fun
3
Scenic
8
Aerobic
6
Technical
3

Garin and Dry Creek

Garin and Dry Creek

A typical East Bay fire-road ride with all of its pros and cons: Many steep climbs, uninteresting fire roads, great views, and a beautiful landscape in springtime.

13.5 miles       2200' climb       3.5 hours       3% SINGLETRACK95% FIRE ROAD1% PAVED1% ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
10
Aerobic
7
Technical
4

Golden Gate to Sausalito

Golden Gate to Sausalito

A longer and more challenging version of what's possibly San Francisco's most popular bike ride. It can still be shortened and made easier to match any skill and form level with a couple of quick adjustments.

24 miles       1950' climb       4.5 hours       18% FIRE ROAD26% PAVED56% ROAD
Fun
5
Scenic
7
Aerobic
8
Technical
3

Grant Ranch

Grant Ranch

A challenging fire-road ride in typical East Bay scenery and not too much else.

17 miles       3200' climb       4 hours       5% SINGLETRACK92% FIRE ROAD2% PAVED1% ROAD
Fun
8
Scenic
3
Aerobic
8
Technical
6

Grizzly Flat and Charcoal Grade

Grizzly Flat and Charcoal Grade

A short loop that has you descending a mediocre forest fire road only to do one of the region's most notorious climbs, but redeems itself with some sweet singletrack near the end, not to mention two cute creek crossings.

10.5 miles       2550' climb       3.5 hours       48% SINGLETRACK52% FIRE ROAD
Fun
4
Scenic
9
Aerobic
1
Technical
3

Half Moon Bay Coastside Trail

Half Moon Bay Coastside Trail

A family-grade ride on a trail that's more scenic than any other casual trail, at least if you can catch a day without fog.

16.5 miles       500' climb       2 hours       3% SINGLETRACK21% FIRE ROAD70% PAVED6% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
6
Aerobic
5
Technical
2

Half Moon Bay Road Loop

Half Moon Bay Road Loop

Possibly the shortest and easiest road loop you can do to sample some of the beauty of the Peninsula coast backroads.

24.5 miles       2100' climb       2.5 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
8
Aerobic
5
Technical
3

Harvey Bear Ranch

Harvey Bear Ranch

A ride with a healthy amount of decent singletrack in an area where you might least expect it, though it's all non-technical. It also doesn't hurt that the climbs are mostly reasonable and the scenery can be gorgeous.

16 miles       2300' climb       3 hours       57% SINGLETRACK43% FIRE ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
8
Aerobic
4
Technical
2

Healdsburg to Geyserville

Healdsburg to Geyserville

A great option to take in the genuine wine-country-road-ride experience without any hard work or busy traffic.

31 miles       1150' climb       3 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
4
Aerobic
3
Technical
5

Helen Putnam

Helen Putnam

A small but good selection of singletrack trails that make up a decent easy ride option for locals who are willing to do multiple loops.

5.5 miles       1100' climb       1.5 hours       66% SINGLETRACK19% FIRE ROAD13% PAVED2% ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
5
Aerobic
8
Technical
5

Henry Coe (Domino Pond and Grapevine Trails)

Henry Coe (Domino Pond and Grapevine Trails)

For sampling a relatively more remotely located five-mile narrow singletrack descent of this park, the cost will be the long round trip and one grueling climb to get there

16.5 miles       2850' climb       3.5 hours       30% SINGLETRACK47% FIRE ROAD23% ROAD
Fun
8
Scenic
7
Aerobic
8
Technical
6

Henry Coe (Grizzly Gulch)

Henry Coe (Grizzly Gulch)

This short loop mixes some scenery, fire road climbing, fun singletrack, and plenty of creek crossings, to add up to easy fun at this remote park.

9.5 miles       2600' climb       2.5 hours       77% SINGLETRACK23% FIRE ROAD
Fun
9
Scenic
7
Aerobic
8
Technical
7

Henry Coe (Jackson and Dexter Trails)

Henry Coe (Jackson and Dexter Trails)

A short, fun, and easily accessible loop at one of the remotest wilderness areas you can access near the Bay Area.

13 miles       2600' climb       3 hours       50% SINGLETRACK19% FIRE ROAD31% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
5
Aerobic
6
Technical
7

Henry Coe (Middle Ridge Loop)

Henry Coe (Middle Ridge Loop)

One of the better known loops at this big mountain biking destination that provides fairly technical singletrack while avoiding too much steep climbing.

13.5 miles       2900' climb       4 hours       66% SINGLETRACK32% FIRE ROAD2% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
7
Aerobic
9
Technical
7

Henry Coe (Willson Peak and Middle Steer Ridge Trails)

Henry Coe (Willson Peak and Middle Steer Ridge Trails)

A route suggestion coming from a very authorized source. This ride's extra-steep singletrack descents may deserve to be more of a concern than its climbs.

14 miles       3500' climb       4.5 hours       62% SINGLETRACK38% FIRE ROAD
Fun
3
Scenic
3
Aerobic
2
Technical
1

Iron Horse Trail

Iron Horse Trail

An easy, flat, and wide casual trail that doesn't involve too much fun or scenery, but provides pleanty of mileage. Lots and lots of unchallenging mileage.

29 miles       700' climb       3 hours       100% PAVED
Fun
6
Scenic
4
Aerobic
7
Technical
5

Jack London Park

Jack London Park

A good amount of bike-legal singletrack as long as you can stomach steep climbs and some awkwardness in trail arrangement. The appeal to literary interest is a bonus.

15 miles       2700' climb       4 hours       67% SINGLETRACK30% FIRE ROAD3% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
4
Aerobic
5
Technical
6

Joaquin Miller

Joaquin Miller

A small city park with trails for all skills levels, most of them singletrack. This place is the East Bay's only claim to first-class singletrack.

11.5 miles       2200' climb       3.5 hours       58% SINGLETRACK40% FIRE ROAD1% PAVED1% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
4
Aerobic
8
Technical
4

Kennedy Road

Kennedy Road

An iconic South Bay loop aimed mainly at doing a famously challenging fire-road climb.

13.5 miles       2750' climb       3.5 hours       68% FIRE ROAD2% PAVED30% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
7
Aerobic
8
Technical
3

King Ridge Loop

King Ridge Loop

A tough and remote ride that's widely known and hyped. Due to seriously good scenery and fun, it may qualify as a king in more than just the name.

50 miles       4900' climb       6.5 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
6
Aerobic
5
Technical
6

Lagoon Valley

Lagoon Valley

Not a lot of trails in this park, but it fulfills the need for decent singletrack surprisingly well in an area that has little of it.

8 miles       1450' climb       2 hours       69% SINGLETRACK22% FIRE ROAD9% ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
7
Aerobic
5
Technical
2

La Honda - Pescadero Loop

La Honda - Pescadero Loop

One of the least challenging road rides you can do on the coast side of the Peninsula while still seeing almost the full spectrum of geography here as well as several favorite spots of cyclists.

29 miles       2350' climb       3 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
5
Scenic
6
Aerobic
4
Technical
3

Lake Chabot

Lake Chabot

Starts out as an easy and paved lake-shore ride. Continues as a moderate fire-road climb and hillside stroll.

13.5 miles       1900' climb       3 hours       76% FIRE ROAD24% PAVED
Fun
4
Scenic
8
Aerobic
8
Technical
4

Las Trampas

Las Trampas

A ride of extremely steep climbs, partially redeemed by good views and pretty nature, but with little else to offer overall.

14 miles       3100' climb       3 hours       60% FIRE ROAD21% PAVED19% ROAD
Fun
4
Scenic
6
Aerobic
3
Technical
2

Lexington Reservoir Loop

Lexington Reservoir Loop

An easy, mostly-road loop around a reservoir with plenty of water views and almost no challenge.

11.5 miles       1300' climb       2 hours       7% SINGLETRACK27% FIRE ROAD4% PAVED62% ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
8
Aerobic
6
Technical
6

Lone Tree Road

Lone Tree Road

A peaceful and secluded mountain climb in beautiful backcountry on relatively bad roads and that has a restricted season during which it will be pleasant

24.5 miles       2700' climb       2.5 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
3
Scenic
3
Aerobic
3
Technical
1

The Loop (Stanford)

The Loop (Stanford)

A locally well-known short road loop that's unchallenging and almost flat, but is a good quickie workout option for those who live nearby.

14 miles       800' climb       1 hour       100% ROAD
Fun
3
Scenic
3
Aerobic
2
Technical
2

Los Gatos Creek Trail

Los Gatos Creek Trail

An easy, paved, family-grade ride that is well located to be useful to many people and that manages to be peaceful and pretty (though crowded) despite cutting through fairly dense portions of the South Bay.

16.5 miles       600' climb       1.5 hours       98% PAVED2% ROAD
Fun
5
Scenic
7
Aerobic
4
Technical
4

Marin Headlands (Marincello, Bobcat, Miwok Trails)

Marin Headlands (Marincello, Bobcat, Miwok Trails)

A short fire-road loop in the scenic hills of Marin Headlands that hits two particular short trails, each of which is worth seeing for its own little quirk.

9.5 miles       1650' climb       2 hours       12% SINGLETRACK73% FIRE ROAD15% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
9
Aerobic
7
Technical
4

Marin Headlands (Miwok, Dias Ridge, Middle Green Gulch Trails)

Marin Headlands (Miwok, Dias Ridge, Middle Green Gulch Trails)

This ride across two valleys and two ridges in Marin provides a good sampling of the trail environments and trailside attractions in the headlands, not to mention a surprising amount of smooth (though tame) singletrack.

12.5 miles       2300' climb       4 hours       40% SINGLETRACK51% FIRE ROAD5% PAVED4% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
7
Aerobic
8
Technical
3

Marshall - Chileno Valley Loop

Marshall - Chileno Valley Loop

A long road loop through idyllic pastureland, scenic coastal roads, and through rustic settlements on various Marin County backroads.

48 miles       3950' climb       5 hours       2% PAVED98% ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
7
Aerobic
5
Technical
5

McLaren Park and San Bruno Mountain

McLaren Park and San Bruno Mountain

A rarity in terms of being a route within San Francisco that could pass for a real mountain-bike ride. Trail difficulty ranges all over the spectrum but the views are always top-notch.

11.5 miles       1800' climb       2.5 hours       18% SINGLETRACK29% FIRE ROAD23% PAVED30% ROAD
Fun
4
Scenic
10
Aerobic
8
Technical
3

Mission Peak

Mission Peak

An otherwise undistinguished ride up a fire road leading to a popular East Bay mountain peak that's worth it just for the views. Stay away if you hate steep climbs, though.

10.5 miles       2350' climb       3 hours       6% SINGLETRACK67% FIRE ROAD2% PAVED25% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
7
Aerobic
6
Technical
4

Monte Bello Open Space

Monte Bello Open Space

This short ride will take you to the peak of Black Mountain while getting you to sample most of the singletrack in the park in a single ride.

8 miles       1600' climb       2 hours       70% SINGLETRACK30% FIRE ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
7
Aerobic
7
Technical
4

Montebello Road - Stevens Canyon Loop

Montebello Road - Stevens Canyon Loop

A mixed ride that's both challenging and fun. As mixed rides go, this is one of the better ones that I know of, and could make it into many riders' favorites lists.

18 miles       3050' climb       3.5 hours       11% SINGLETRACK32% FIRE ROAD57% ROAD
Fun
4
Scenic
8
Aerobic
4
Technical
2

Monterey Bay Coastal Trail

Monterey Bay Coastal Trail

Arguably one of the most desirable casual rides on this site, offering beautiful coastal views, wildlife sightings, dune scenery, and some history; all without any serious effort.

29 miles       1000' climb       2.5 hours       97% PAVED3% ROAD
Fun
5
Scenic
5
Aerobic
6
Technical
6

Moore Creek Park

Moore Creek Park

A small trail network whose available singletrack may be a surprise to some. It might not be enough to draw riders from distant places but is enough to make it a good local resource.

14.5 miles       2200' climb       3.5 hours       52% SINGLETRACK47% FIRE ROAD1% ROAD
Fun
3
Scenic
8
Aerobic
6
Technical
2

Morgan Territory (eastern trails)

Morgan Territory (eastern trails)

A ride to be done not for the trails (which are boring fire roads) but for the views and the scenery, especially in the spring. This ride is the easier one compared to the other option listed for this park.

11 miles       2000' climb       3 hours       100% FIRE ROAD
Fun
4
Scenic
8
Aerobic
8
Technical
3

Morgan Territory (western trails)

Morgan Territory (western trails)

A ride whose appeal is limited to lovers of nature and the outdoors, and whose climbs are meant for masochists and superhumans.

12.5 miles       3350' climb       4 hours       100% FIRE ROAD
Fun
8
Scenic
8
Aerobic
8
Technical
2

Morgan Territory and Vasco Road Loop

Morgan Territory and Vasco Road Loop

A long loop deep in the East Bay hills that's very scenic and that traverses very secluded stretches of country.

47.5 miles       3650' climb       4.5 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
10
Aerobic
8
Technical
5

Mount Diablo (Mitchell Canyon to the peak)

Mount Diablo (Mitchell Canyon to the peak)

A killer climb that takes you to a killer mountain peak with killer views. While the ride is mostly on fire roads, you'll still get to flex some technical singletrack riding and tricky loose descent muscles as well.

15 miles       3900' climb       5.5 hours       7% SINGLETRACK71% FIRE ROAD22% ROAD
Fun
5
Scenic
10
Aerobic
8
Technical
6

Mount Diablo (Mothers, Diablo Ranch, Buckeye Trails)

Mount Diablo (Mothers, Diablo Ranch, Buckeye Trails)

A tough ride for those who are okay with plenty of steep climbs that samples several of the precious few bike-legal singletrack trails on Mount Diablo. The panoramic views and some appeal for those who like creek crossings are bonuses.

12 miles       3250' climb       3.5 hours       22% SINGLETRACK66% FIRE ROAD12% ROAD
Fun
8
Scenic
10
Aerobic
8
Technical
2

Mount Diablo (North Gate Road climb)

Mount Diablo (North Gate Road climb)

An unbroken climb that serves as a shorter and potentially quieter alternative to reach the peak of this mountain on a road bike. It's not easier though, and no less scenic.

24.5 miles       3750' climb       4 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
3
Aerobic
8
Technical
6

Mount Diablo (Oyster Point Trail)

Mount Diablo (Oyster Point Trail)

An out-and-back ride for sampling a singletrack gem on Mount Diablo, which makes this a worthwhile ride option even though it doesn't provide you much else.

12 miles       3100' climb       4 hours       57% SINGLETRACK43% FIRE ROAD
Fun
8
Scenic
10
Aerobic
8
Technical
2

Mount Diablo (South Gate Road climb)

Mount Diablo (South Gate Road climb)

Possibly the most well-known mountain climb in the East Bay. I can't say it's a piece of cake, but it's not brutal either. It's as pleasant and as scenic as one could expect of any mountain climb.

29 miles       4000' climb       4 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
5
Scenic
7
Aerobic
8
Technical
3

Mount Diablo (Walnut Creek to South Gate Road)

Mount Diablo (Walnut Creek to South Gate Road)

A fire-road ride that takes you halfway up Mount Diablo, featuring good views, some of the best rolling landscape during the green-grass season, and including a treat for creek crossing fans.

17 miles       3500' climb       4.5 hours       2% SINGLETRACK98% FIRE ROAD
Fun
8
Scenic
8
Aerobic
10
Technical
2

Mount Hamilton

Mount Hamilton

The climb to our area's highest peak is less scary than you'd expect. It requires more stamina than power. The landscape is beautiful and the views are great but could be better.

37 miles       4700' climb       5 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
4
Scenic
9
Aerobic
7
Technical
3

Mount St. Helena

Mount St. Helena

Simply a straight mountain climb up a smooth fire road with not too much biking interest but some historic curiosity and plenty of stupendously distant vistas.

12.5 miles       3100' climb       3 hours       100% FIRE ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
8
Aerobic
5
Technical
3

Mount Tam (Deer Park Road and Coast View Trail)

Mount Tam (Deer Park Road and Coast View Trail)

A short and relatively easy loop that still manages to hit a number of the highlights of riding on Mount Tam.

11.5 miles       1750' climb       2.5 hours       21% SINGLETRACK34% FIRE ROAD45% ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
9
Aerobic
8
Technical
5

Mount Tam (Eldridge Grade and Lagunitas - Rock Spring Road)

Mount Tam (Eldridge Grade and Lagunitas - Rock Spring Road)

A long fire-road ride that allows you to experience the northern slopes of Mount Tam from its lowest foothills in the lakes area, all the way to East Peak.

20 miles       3150' climb       5 hours       65% FIRE ROAD2% PAVED33% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
10
Aerobic
6
Technical
5

Mount Tam (Old Railroad and Eldridge Grades)

Mount Tam (Old Railroad and Eldridge Grades)

A climb up Mount Tam via the easiest route you can take by bike, followed by a fun descent on a rocky and technical fire road. The views are world-class!

12.5 miles       2300' climb       3 hours       89% FIRE ROAD3% PAVED8% ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
8
Aerobic
8
Technical
4

Mount Umunhum

Mount Umunhum

A tough mountain climb that allows you to enjoy one of the longest singletrack trails in the South Bay. Reaching one of the bay's most scenic mountain tops is a bonus.

14.5 miles       2650' climb       3.5 hours       46% SINGLETRACK35% FIRE ROAD4% PAVED15% ROAD
Fun
8
Scenic
4
Aerobic
7
Technical
1

Mount Veeder Road

Mount Veeder Road

A popular wine-country ride through backroads with little traffic, sure to be enjoyed by anyone who doesn't mind a tough climb of limited length.

22 miles       1750' climb       2.5 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
8
Scenic
7
Aerobic
5
Technical
4

Nicasio Reservoir Loop

Nicasio Reservoir Loop

My shortest and easiest suggestion for an "idyllic Marin road ride", for those times when you have the least amount of time and energy available.

27 miles       1500' climb       3 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
4
Scenic
1
Aerobic
4
Technical
2

Old Haul Road

Old Haul Road

An almost-flat out-and-back ride on a fire road for beginners. The good part is that it's under dense redwood cover and is arguably a true wilderness.

12.5 miles       1350' climb       2 hours       100% FIRE ROAD
Fun
9
Scenic
8
Aerobic
8
Technical
10

Oat Hill Mine Road

Oat Hill Mine Road

A top-notch advanced ride for experienced riders who cherish technical trails. Postcard-like views are a bonus.

10.5 miles       2300' climb       4 hours       100% FIRE ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
2
Aerobic
7
Technical
5

Old La Honda Road (road loop)

Old La Honda Road (road loop)

A moderate road loop aimed at experiencing this popular road climb coupled with a fast and fun descent, while staying as far out of the way of busy traffic as possible.

19 miles       2600' climb       2.5 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
4
Scenic
5
Aerobic
7
Technical
3

Old La Honda Road (trail loop)

Old La Honda Road (trail loop)

One of the most well-known road climbs of the South Bay, followed by a quick return via a fire-road descent.

8.5 miles       1550' climb       2 hours       5% SINGLETRACK29% FIRE ROAD66% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
8
Aerobic
7
Technical
6

Pacheco State Park

Pacheco State Park

There's enough singletrack to knock yourself out in this often overlooked, surprisingly fun, and surprisingly challenging park.

11 miles       2550' climb       4 hours       38% SINGLETRACK56% FIRE ROAD5% ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
9
Aerobic
7
Technical
4

Pacifica

Pacifica

A forked exploration of one of the most popular trail networks of the Peninsula that you can vary from an easy out-and-back to a full traversal that includes a mountain climb.

17 miles       3100' climb       4 hours       18% SINGLETRACK28% FIRE ROAD52% PAVED2% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
4
Aerobic
6
Technical
5

Palomares Road

Palomares Road

An unchallenging road loop that manages to stay away from heavy traffic for the most part while also managing to be relatively secluded and fairly satisfying.

28.5 miles       2050' climb       3 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
4
Scenic
9
Aerobic
3
Technical
1

Paradise Loop

Paradise Loop

An easy and very scenic coastal road ride that could also present the possibility of post-ride treats in cute downtown Tiburon.

11 miles       850' climb       1.5 hours       12% PAVED88% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
9
Aerobic
7
Technical
1

Patterson and Altamont Passes

Patterson and Altamont Passes

A popular ride through backcountry roads traversing a very distinctive landscape with one or two iconic and tough climbs. Stick to weekends for safer traffic and to early spring for the best scenery though.

28 miles       2400' climb       2.5 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
5
Scenic
8
Aerobic
6
Technical
1

Pescadero - San Gregorio Loop

Pescadero - San Gregorio Loop

A fairly manageable road ride that can show you much of what the Peninsula coast has to offer, from tiny cute towns, to world class views, to cozy country roads, without taking up most of your day. A simple variation is also possible that is even easier.

32 miles       2350' climb       3.5 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
6
Aerobic
8
Technical
7

Pine Mountain Loop

Pine Mountain Loop

A historic ride in Marin's hallowed mountain biking ground with plenty of technical and rocky fire road fun and wide open views.

14 miles       2950' climb       4 hours       100% FIRE ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
4
Aerobic
7
Technical
8

Pipeline Trail

Pipeline Trail

A short but strenuous ride aimed at descending a twisty, black-diamond singletrack that's a treat for aggressive riders.

8.5 miles       1700' climb       2.5 hours       34% SINGLETRACK43% FIRE ROAD23% ROAD
Fun
5
Scenic
4
Aerobic
8
Technical
4

Pleasanton Ridge (Suggestion 1)

Pleasanton Ridge (Suggestion 1)

A substantial ride in one of the more popular East Bay mountain biking locations. There's a ton of climbing and the singletrack amount is negligible, but it's still worth a try.

18.5 miles       3700' climb       5.5 hours       7% SINGLETRACK93% FIRE ROAD
Fun
5
Scenic
6
Aerobic
7
Technical
3

Pleasanton Ridge (Suggestion 2)

Pleasanton Ridge (Suggestion 2)

This option allows a more complete exploration of Kilkare Canyon and includes more of the higher trails in the northern reaches of the park, at the cost of slightly more mileage and slightly less singletrack.

19.5 miles       3400' climb       5 hours       5% SINGLETRACK95% FIRE ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
10
Aerobic
4
Technical
6

Point Reyes (Drakes Head)

Point Reyes (Drakes Head)

A remote and extremely scenic mountain bike ride unusual in its setting, fun, and surprising technical challenges.

12 miles       1550' climb       3 hours       57% SINGLETRACK43% FIRE ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
9
Aerobic
6
Technical
2

Point Reyes (road ride)

Point Reyes (road ride)

A very scenic ride where you can escape from heat and catch some meditative solitude without having to push yourself too hard, at least as long as you can manage to catch a day with good weather.

33 miles       3300' climb       4.5 hours       3% PAVED97% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
8
Aerobic
7
Technical
4

Pope Valley Loop

Pope Valley Loop

A quiet ride, free from suffering, that takes you across three valleys in the wine country, as long as you're willing to take a chance on a closed road.

34 miles       2500' climb       4 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
5
Scenic
7
Aerobic
8
Technical
4

Priest Rock Loop

Priest Rock Loop

A ride with plenty of painful climbing where your satisfaction will come from a sense of achievement and a thrilling portion of the descent. The views are pretty good too.

17.5 miles       3950' climb       4.5 hours       85% FIRE ROAD3% PAVED12% ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
6
Aerobic
6
Technical
3

Rancho CaƱada del Oro

Rancho CaƱada del Oro

This non-technical but challenging short ride exhausts the entire trail network of this small park, but it is one of the more fun and scenic ride options around this location.

9.5 miles       2150' climb       2.5 hours       37% SINGLETRACK57% FIRE ROAD5% PAVED1% ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
3
Aerobic
6
Technical
3

Redwood Regional Park

Redwood Regional Park

Ride virtually all bike-legal fire roads in this East Bay park in one medium-length medium-difficulty ride.

10.5 miles       1850' climb       3 hours       100% FIRE ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
5
Aerobic
7
Technical
6

Repack Road (via Camp Tamarancho)

Repack Road (via Camp Tamarancho)

This mixed ride should please intermediate to advanced riders with a traversal of the course of the historic Repack Race as well as the inclusion of some of the technical singletrack goodness of Tamarancho.

13.5 miles       2500' climb       3.5 hours       36% SINGLETRACK40% FIRE ROAD24% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
4
Aerobic
6
Technical
5

Repack Road (via Deer Park)

Repack Road (via Deer Park)

A ride for experiencing the famous Repack Road while getting there through a course following Fairfax fire roads.

13 miles       2050' climb       2.5 hours       3% SINGLETRACK63% FIRE ROAD34% ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
9
Aerobic
7
Technical
2

Ridgecrest Boulevard

Ridgecrest Boulevard

Ride possibly the most scenic road in the Bay Area and a calm lakeshore portion of Highway 1 on this short route.

18 miles       2450' climb       2.5 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
9
Scenic
5
Aerobic
7
Technical
9

Rockville (Suggestion 1)

Rockville (Suggestion 1)

A short ride without much climbing in this little park with plenty of singletrack trails. This 7-mile ride feels more like a 10 or 12-miler due to the technical nature of the trails.

7 miles       1350' climb       2.5 hours       89% SINGLETRACK11% FIRE ROAD
Fun
9
Scenic
4
Aerobic
8
Technical
8

Rockville (Suggestion 2)

Rockville (Suggestion 2)

A ton of very technical singletrack in this small park! It's a shame this particular ride includes so few of them.

7 miles       1500' climb       3.5 hours       82% SINGLETRACK18% FIRE ROAD
Fun
4
Scenic
5
Aerobic
3
Technical
1

Round Valley

Round Valley

A mostly flat meander through a wide-open East Bay meadow.

7.5 miles       800' climb       1.5 hours       100% FIRE ROAD
Fun
5
Scenic
2
Aerobic
7
Technical
2

Route 9

Route 9

This is about as pure as a road climb gets. Nothing but 7 miles of climbing, followed by the descent of the same.

14 miles       2200' climb       2 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
8
Aerobic
5
Technical
4

Russian Ridge

Russian Ridge

A short and relatively easy ride that rewards with some fun singletrack and a big dose of scenery.

8.5 miles       1700' climb       2 hours       68% SINGLETRACK31% FIRE ROAD1% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
10
Aerobic
6
Technical
6

San Francisco Peaks

San Francisco Peaks

A surprisingly decent singletrack ride in a very unlikely urban setting, though you need to "connect the dots" via road ride segments. Postcard-worthy views of the city are a bonus.

12.5 miles       2750' climb       3.5 hours       46% SINGLETRACK10% FIRE ROAD44% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
2
Aerobic
5
Technical
5

Sanborn County Park

Sanborn County Park

A substantial ride on twisty forest singletrack that is reasonably fun without being a serious physical challenge. This is only an early sampling of more good stuff to come at Sanborn for bikers.

15 miles       2400' climb       3 hours       68% SINGLETRACK32% FIRE ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
7
Aerobic
8
Technical
3

San Juan Bautista to Elkhorn Slough

San Juan Bautista to Elkhorn Slough

A convoluted ramble through little-known backroads aimed at stringing together a few worthwhile cycling roads, which you can embellish with a touch of history and some bird watching.

45.5 miles       3550' climb       5 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
6
Aerobic
7
Technical
7

Santa Teresa (Suggestion 1)

Santa Teresa (Suggestion 1)

Easily the most mountain biking fun to be had around South San Jose. Two great technical singletrack trails connected via scenic fire roads with frequent steep climbs.

11 miles       2600' climb       3.5 hours       36% SINGLETRACK64% FIRE ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
7
Aerobic
7
Technical
7

Santa Teresa (Suggestion 2)

Santa Teresa (Suggestion 2)

A variant of a typical Santa Teresa ride route that manages to add more singletrack riding to the mix but doesn't reduce the amount of painful climbs by very much.

11.5 miles       2350' climb       3 hours       49% SINGLETRACK50% FIRE ROAD1% PAVED
Fun
8
Scenic
4
Aerobic
7
Technical
5

Saratoga Gap and Long Ridge

Saratoga Gap and Long Ridge

One of the jewels of the Peninsula in terms of first-rate singletrack riding.

10 miles       1750' climb       2.5 hours       72% SINGLETRACK28% FIRE ROAD
Fun
2
Scenic
6
Aerobic
2
Technical
1

Sawyer Camp and San Andreas Trails

Sawyer Camp and San Andreas Trails

A paved recreational trail ride easy enough for all skill levels, yet still providing good lake views and a setting in beautiful nature.

18 miles       1300' climb       2.5 hours       92% PAVED8% ROAD
Fun
5
Scenic
9
Aerobic
4
Technical
3

17-Mile Drive

Seventeen-Mile Drive

A well-known route, though more as a scenic drive than a bike ride. That doesn't prevent it from being an easy road ride that's extremely scenic, however.

16 miles       1600' climb       2 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
8
Aerobic
8
Technical
5

Sierra Vista (Suggestion 1)

Sierra Vista (Suggestion 1)

A mixed ride with great views that allows a sampling of some of this area's rare (and newest) singletrack, if you're okay with lots of climbing, though a shorter and easier version is possible.

17 miles       4200' climb       5 hours       38% SINGLETRACK56% FIRE ROAD6% ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
8
Aerobic
6
Technical
3

Sierra Vista (Suggestion 2)

Sierra Vista (Suggestion 2)

An easier and shorter option for sampling the newest and nicest non-technical singletrack in this area, though this still can't avoid a handful of steep climbs.

10 miles       2350' climb       2.5 hours       53% SINGLETRACK47% FIRE ROAD
Fun
9
Scenic
2
Aerobic
7
Technical
7

Skeggs Point (Suggestion 1)

Skeggs Point (Suggestion 1)

I'm pretty sure there's no better mountain biking area in the Bay Area. This ride traverses three of its best technical singletracks, two of them uphill.

9.5 miles       2100' climb       3 hours       59% SINGLETRACK37% FIRE ROAD2% PAVED2% ROAD
Fun
8
Scenic
1
Aerobic
6
Technical
6

Skeggs Point (Suggestion 2)

Skeggs Point (Suggestion 2)

This is one of the comparatively easy loops possible in this park, while still being technical and fun.

8 miles       1700' climb       2.5 hours       46% SINGLETRACK34% FIRE ROAD4% PAVED16% ROAD
Fun
9
Scenic
1
Aerobic
8
Technical
7

Skeggs Point (Suggestion 3)

Skeggs Point (Suggestion 3)

This is essentially two different loops; you can cut it short by doing just one, or do them both.

11 miles       2650' climb       3 hours       52% SINGLETRACK43% FIRE ROAD3% PAVED2% ROAD
Fun
9
Scenic
2
Aerobic
8
Technical
7

Skeggs Point (Suggestion 4)

Skeggs Point (Suggestion 4)

Another fun, two-lobed ride route at this mountain biking destination. Do both if you're in good shape, or pick one half and complete just that one.

10.5 miles       2400' climb       3 hours       60% SINGLETRACK36% FIRE ROAD2% PAVED2% ROAD
Fun
9
Scenic
2
Aerobic
8
Technical
7

Skeggs Point (Suggestion 5)

Skeggs Point (Suggestion 5)

This is the "big loop" in this park, roughly tracing its boundaries. You get to sample El Corte de Madera Creek Trail downhill and also see North Leaf and South Leaf trails.

14 miles       3300' climb       4 hours       48% SINGLETRACK42% FIRE ROAD1% PAVED9% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
1
Aerobic
8
Technical
5

Skeggs Point (Suggestion 6)

Skeggs Point (Suggestion 6)

This ride traverses the more remote Lawrence Creek Trail and most of Timberview Trail.

9 miles       2300' climb       2.5 hours       26% SINGLETRACK55% FIRE ROAD3% PAVED16% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
8
Aerobic
6
Technical
3

Skyline Loop

Skyline Loop

A reasonable road loop that provides a good mix of the pretty country and suburban roads as well as some excellent scenery of the East Bay without killing you of exhaustion.

29 miles       3100' climb       3 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
7
Aerobic
7
Technical
5

Skyline Ridge Open Space

Skyline Ridge Open Space

A ride along ridgetops with one beautiful singletrack and some pretty views and not much more, but that can be easily extended in a million ways.

9.5 miles       1950' climb       2 hours       44% SINGLETRACK56% FIRE ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
1
Aerobic
6
Technical
5

Skyline Trail

Skyline Trail

One of the better singletrack rides you will find along Skyline Boulevard. Think of this trail as a long extension of Saratoga Gap Trail.

13 miles       2500' climb       3 hours       56% SINGLETRACK41% FIRE ROAD3% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
4
Aerobic
5
Technical
9

Skyline Wilderness (Suggestion 1)

Skyline Wilderness (Suggestion 1)

A very small trail network of highly technical singletrack. Not to be missed by any experienced rider, not recommended to any beginner.

7 miles       1850' climb       2.5 hours       81% SINGLETRACK19% FIRE ROAD
Fun
8
Scenic
4
Aerobic
5
Technical
8

Skyline Wilderness (Suggestion 2)

Skyline Wilderness (Suggestion 2)

A slightly more substantial, slightly less grueling, and more fun variation of Suggestion 1. A delightful little ride on technical singletrack trails.

9.5 miles       2050' climb       3 hours       73% SINGLETRACK27% FIRE ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
6
Aerobic
9
Technical
4

Sonoma to Rohnert Park

Sonoma to Rohnert Park

Probably not the most perfect road route through the Sonoma wine country, but a ride that offers plenty of possibilities for shorter variations to suite a variety of needs.

42 miles       3250' climb       5 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
5
Scenic
6
Aerobic
5
Technical
3

St. Joseph's Hill

Saint Joseph's Hill

A good ride for the locals with a cluster of trails on a hilltop with good views, even including a tiny sampling of tasty singletrack.

8 miles       1450' climb       2 hours       10% SINGLETRACK77% FIRE ROAD3% PAVED10% ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
2
Aerobic
6
Technical
4

Stevens Canyon

Stevens Canyon

A reasonably entertaining out-and-back mixed ride whose length and (hence) difficulty you can adjust to your taste.

11.5 miles       1650' climb       2 hours       14% SINGLETRACK48% FIRE ROAD38% ROAD
Fun
3
Scenic
4
Aerobic
2
Technical
2

Stevens Creek Trail

Stevens Creek Trail

A very easy ride on a paved, family-grade trail that's made especially useful because it connects to the very popular Shoreline Park and to a whole bevy of flat dirt trails by the bay shore.

13.5 miles       450' climb       1.5 hours       100% PAVED
Fun
4
Scenic
3
Aerobic
3
Technical
1

Stevens Creek Reservoir Loop

Stevens Creek Reservoir Loop

This easy road loop could be either used as an unchallenging beginner ride on its own, or made the basis of much longer road and trail ride options for experienced riders.

12 miles       950' climb       1.5 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
9
Aerobic
8
Technical
5

Sugarloaf Ridge

Sugarloaf Ridge

A short loop that's challenging enough to be a good advanced workout ride while providing grand views. The punishing climb and the very steep descent make it unsuitable to beginners.

7 miles       1800' climb       2 hours       65% FIRE ROAD28% PAVED7% ROAD
Fun
4
Scenic
8
Aerobic
6
Technical
2

Summit Road

Summit Road

An uninteresting ride on a very interesting road. Getting to see familiar scenery from unfamiliar vantage points at very high elevation is the biggest bonus.

19.5 miles       3050' climb       4 hours       40% FIRE ROAD60% ROAD
Fun
4
Scenic
9
Aerobic
8
Technical
2

Sunol Regional Wilderness

Sunol Regional Wilderness

Don't ride here for mountain biking bliss. Ride here to see the wonderfully picturesque landscape, but only if you're okay with climbing. The ride can be made easier by skipping some side loops, though.

15.5 miles       3800' climb       4.5 hours       87% FIRE ROAD13% ROAD
Fun
5
Scenic
9
Aerobic
5
Technical
3

Sweeney Ridge

Sweeney Ridge

A ride that's short on total distance and on true mountain biking fun, but is worthwhile due to spectacular views and a couple of points of interest.

9.5 miles       1800' climb       2.5 hours       15% SINGLETRACK49% FIRE ROAD13% PAVED23% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
7
Aerobic
8
Technical
3

Sweetwater Springs Road

Sweetwater Springs Road

A modest loop through a sweet and secluded wine country backroad made discouraging by a brutal climb. For those who appreciate perks, this ride provides historic interest (an old mine), indulgence (winery rest stops), small-town window shopping, and maybe even a dip in Russian River.

26 miles       2300' climb       3 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
4
Scenic
5
Aerobic
5
Technical
3

Terra Linda - Sleepy Hollow Divide

Terra Linda - Sleepy Hollow Divide

A short fire-road ride that doesn't hold too much interest unless you're desperate for something different in this area or unless you incorporate it into a longer ride.

9.5 miles       2000' climb       2 hours       80% FIRE ROAD1% PAVED19% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
8
Aerobic
7
Technical
1

Tesla and Patterson Pass Roads

Tesla and Patterson Pass Roads

A very scenic and peaceful backcountry loop that you'll enjoy if you can tolerate a little fast traffic and some semi-industrial Central Valley mileage.

41 miles       2800' climb       4 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
7
Aerobic
5
Technical
3

Three Bears Loop

Three Bears Loop

A famous East Bay road loop that's not long and not too strenuous. It takes its name from three climbs but, for many riders, the traffic near Orinda will be a bigger headache than the climbs.

23.5 miles       1800' climb       2.5 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
8
Aerobic
6
Technical
3

Tilden Park (into Wildcat Canyon Park)

Tilden Park (into Wildcat Canyon Park)

A long but easy ride in these conveniently located parks with first-class views as a bonus.

16 miles       2250' climb       3 hours       10% SINGLETRACK53% FIRE ROAD31% PAVED6% ROAD
Fun
5
Scenic
7
Aerobic
7
Technical
4

Tilden Park (southern trails)

Tilden Park (southern trails)

A fire-road ride that weaves back and forth across most of the bike-legal trails available in the southern portion of this park. Plenty of climbing and good views, but true mountain biking appeal is slim.

11.5 miles       2900' climb       3.5 hours       6% SINGLETRACK72% FIRE ROAD4% PAVED18% ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
6
Aerobic
7
Technical
2

Tunitas Creek Road and Route 84

Tunitas Creek Road and Route 84

A ride that will take you through a lot of what the Peninsula has to offer on a wide loop between the mountains and the ocean.

32 miles       2900' climb       4.5 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
6
Scenic
7
Aerobic
6
Technical
3

Uvas Reservoir Loop

Uvas Reservoir Loop

A short and easy road loop with pretty landscape and nice water views just a hop and a skip away from the busy Highway 101 corridor.

22 miles       1150' climb       2 hours       100% ROAD
Fun
8
Scenic
4
Aerobic
7
Technical
8

Water Dog (Suggestion 1)

Water Dog (Suggestion 1)

A small city park with an out-of-proportion amount of fun technical singletrack. This ride takes you through a typical route that includes a descending traversal of the Finch Trail switchbacks.

7.5 miles       1450' climb       2.5 hours       56% SINGLETRACK31% FIRE ROAD13% ROAD
Fun
8
Scenic
4
Aerobic
7
Technical
8

Water Dog (Suggestion 2)

Water Dog (Suggestion 2)

This ride traverses the Finch Trail switchbacks uphill and does the very short and steep "finishing" drop of Berry Trail.

7 miles       1450' climb       2.5 hours       46% SINGLETRACK52% FIRE ROAD2% ROAD
Fun
8
Scenic
7
Aerobic
7
Technical
5

Whittemore Gulch

Whittemore Gulch

Start by descending nearly two miles of one of the most beautiful singletrack trails in the area, then pay your dues with a serious fire road climb.

10 miles       2000' climb       2 hours       25% SINGLETRACK51% FIRE ROAD24% ROAD
Fun
8
Scenic
8
Aerobic
7
Technical
7

Wilder Ranch (Enchanted Loop via Horseman's Trail)

Wilder Ranch (Ride 2)

A slight variation on my favorite loop in one of my favorite parks to ride in. The variation doesn't add much to the fun of the ride, but it's okay enough to try once for a change.

15.5 miles       2000' climb       3.5 hours       54% SINGLETRACK40% FIRE ROAD1% PAVED5% ROAD
Fun
9
Scenic
8
Aerobic
7
Technical
7

Wilder Ranch (Enchanted Loop via Wild Boar Trail)

Wilder Ranch (Ride 1)

A way to experience, arguably, all of the best features of this excellent mountain biking destination in a single moderate loop.

16.5 miles       2350' climb       3.5 hours       72% SINGLETRACK24% FIRE ROAD3% PAVED1% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
6
Aerobic
6
Technical
5

Wilder Ranch (Eucalyptus Loop and Long Meadow Trail)

Wilder Ranch (Ride 3)

This alternate route through this scenic park misses some of the park's highlights, but it's worth a try to see different parts of the park's trail network and may be preferable for riders with less experience.

11.5 miles       1700' climb       2.5 hours       27% SINGLETRACK67% FIRE ROAD5% PAVED1% ROAD
Fun
8
Scenic
8
Aerobic
5
Technical
6

Wilder Ranch (Ohlone Bluff Trail and Baldwin Loop)

Wilder Ranch (Ride 4)

An easy ride at this great mountain biking destination that includes the (judging by the vegetation) much underused Baldwin Loop.

13 miles       1500' climb       3.5 hours       29% SINGLETRACK53% FIRE ROAD18% ROAD
Fun
7
Scenic
7
Aerobic
7
Technical
4

Willow Creek

Willow Creek

A hidden gem that's a worthwhile option even for advanced riders if you live within a reasonable distance and can catch a reservation for the orientation session to get the required permit.

12 miles       2700' climb       4 hours       56% SINGLETRACK44% FIRE ROAD


© Ergin Guney