See all Things to do in Santa Cruz
Explore Spectacular Wilder Ranch By Bike
Santa Cruz, CA 95060 Phone: (831) 423-9703About
A coastal haven for mountain biking awaits just north of Santa Cruz. The coastal burg of Santa Cruz is known mostly for its laid-back downtown, surf spots, and bustling Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk amusement park. But it also offers excellent mountain biking trails in nearby parklands. One of the best places to ride is Wilder Ranch State Park , a hidden gem on the coast just north of the town. The 7,000-acre preserve offers mountain bikers a 35-mile network of multiuse trails. For a good beginner-intermediate ride, start from the parking lot (fee required)—you’ll have to dismount briefly walk your bike through the historic ranch, which includes a still-operating dairy farm, an 1840 adobe, and a Victorian farmhouse). Follow signs for the Engelsmans Loop Trail, a gradual climb on a broad fire road. You can continue on the loop route, or, after about a mile, turn left onto Wild Boar Trail, a single-track trail, to connect a series of trails to scribe a broad circle tour of the park. From Wild Boar, follow Old Cabin Trail through a forested landscape, then take Eucalyptus Loop Trail to the Enchanted Loop Trail, which leads you to Wilder Ridge Loop Trail and the parking lot. Maps and directions for assorted hikes and rides are available on the Wilder Ranch website.
