Zaca Ridge Road 8N02

Dogs Off-leash

E-Bikes Allowed

Features Commonly Bikepacked · Views

This ride is commonly referred to by local riders as the Catway but is labeled on Forest Service maps as Zaca Ridge Road ( fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DO…).

You'll find the Catway on the left side of Figueroa Mountain Road just above the fire station. The road winds into large stands of trees then back onto open ridge line. Consistently up and down with great views of both the Santa Ynez Valley to the south and the San Rafael Wilderness to the north.

For the first 2.75 miles, this is a great first time mountain bike ride. The grade is never too steep and the road bed is quite solid. From about the 2.75-mile mark to the end, the steepness of the climbs increases and the road bed quality degrades somewhat. Watch for ruts, a few rocks, and some sections of soft gravel.

Around mile 4.3, just after you start a short descent, you'll come to a junction. Take a sharp left in order to link up with the Zaca Peak Road 8N02A to the south side of Zaca Peak. Enjoy the great view and a snack before retracing your way back to where you parked near Figueroa Mountain Road.

If you want to add a little extra to this ride, on your way back take a left at the junction and head out to the end of the Catway Jeepway 8N03. The views are nice and in the spring the scent of lupine can be incredible.