Mountain Biking in Santa Cruz and Monterey: Trails, Thrills, and Coastal Adventure

The Santa Cruz and Monterey Bay area is a dream for mountain bikers. With towering redwoods, sweeping ocean views, and miles of flowing singletrack, it’s a place where you can ride year-round and never get bored. Whether you’re a seasoned rider chasing adrenaline or a beginner looking for a scenic cruise, the region’s trails offer a perfect mix of challenge and beauty.

Santa Cruz: The Redwoods and the Flow

Santa Cruz is home to some of the best-known mountain biking terrain in California. The combination of loamy soil, lush forests, and a vibrant biking culture makes it a hub for riders from all over.

• Wilder Ranch State Park
  Just outside of town, Wilder Ranch offers coastal bluffs with panoramic ocean views, rolling fire roads, and singletrack loops. It’s a great spot for intermediate riders who want a mix of climbing and downhill. On clear days, you can even spot whales offshore while you pedal.

• Soquel Demonstration State Forest (“Demo Forest”)
  For those seeking more technical terrain, Demo Forest is legendary. Trails like Flow Trail offer miles of smooth berms, rollers, and jumps designed for pure fun. More advanced riders can test their skills on steeper, more rugged descents, making this forest a true playground.

• University of California, Santa Cruz Trails
  Locals love the UCSC trail network. Winding through redwoods with plenty of shade, these trails are perfect for riders who want to escape the sun and dive into natural singletrack.

Monterey: Scenic Rides by the Bay

While Santa Cruz leans toward the rugged, Monterey offers stunning coastal scenery and more mellow terrain, making it accessible to a wider range of riders.

• Fort Ord National Monument
  This is the crown jewel of Monterey mountain biking. With over 80 miles of trails, Fort Ord has everything from smooth beginner-friendly paths to fast, flowy descents. The rolling hills and wide-open views make it a rider’s paradise, and the sandy soil drains quickly, meaning trails stay rideable even after rain.

• Toro Park
  Located just east of Monterey, Toro Park features challenging climbs that reward riders with sweeping views of the Salinas Valley. The descents are fast and technical, making it a favorite among experienced riders.

• Scenic Coastal Paths
  For a more relaxed ride, the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail links Pacific Grove to Castroville. While not a technical mountain bike route, it’s a spectacular way to combine cycling with ocean breezes, wildlife sightings, and plenty of spots to stop for seafood or coffee.

The Local Riding Culture

Both Santa Cruz and Monterey have thriving cycling communities. You’ll find well-stocked local bike shops, group rides for all levels, and events like the Sea Otter Classic at Laguna Seca Raceway, one of the biggest cycling festivals in the world.

Tips for Visiting Riders

• Rentals & Gear: Many shops in both Santa Cruz and Monterey rent high-quality mountain bikes, so you don’t have to travel with your own.

• Best Season: The mild coastal climate means trails are open year-round, but spring and fall often bring the best conditions.

• Trail Etiquette: Always respect trail rules, yield to hikers and equestrians, and stay on designated paths to protect fragile habitats.

Ride the Best of Both Worlds

Mountain biking in Santa Cruz and Monterey is about more than the ride—it’s the scenery, the community, and the feeling of adventure around every corner. Whether you’re carving berms in Demo Forest or cruising the wide-open trails of Fort Ord, the Monterey Bay region offers an unforgettable two-wheeled experience.