Name: Long Ridge Loop
Rating: 4.5

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For the rides in this area, the following trails may be closed to bicycle and equestrian use during wet conditions.

Chestnut Trail
Long Ridge Trail
Peters Creek Trail.

If there's been any recent precipitation, be sure to check the Long Ridge Open Space Preserve Trail Condition pages before heading up.

openspace.org/preserves/lon…
openspace.org/visit-a-prese…

Overview

This is an excellent casual ride or an introduction for beginners who are wanting to step up from fire roads and sample a bit of everything that the area has to offer. Some steady climbs, fun punchy descents, and great views all add up to make this a great ride.

Description

Start by climbing up the Hickory Oaks Trail. Keep right at the first intersection and then keep left on the Hickory Oaks Lookout Spur for some breathtaking views out to the coast. From this high point, continue on the Hickory Oaks Trail for a rolling descent down to the intersection to take a right on the Hickory Oaks Connector.

At the next two intersections, keep straight to reach the Long Ridge Road. A pleasant pedal along the ridgeline soon brings riders to a stone bench with another great view towards the sea. Make sure to head right on the Long Ridge Trail singletrack as it heads into the trees (the adjacent Portola Heights Road is closed to visitors).

Here you'll find fast downhill singletrack and several switchbacks that can take you somewhat by surprise. At the bottom in a small clearing, stay left on the singletrack. If you're short on time, you could head right on the Long Ridge Trail Connector for a fire road bail out.

Up next is a short, punchy climb followed by a fun, steep descent down to Peters Creek Trail. Follow it south as it joins the fire road. At the pond, make the ascent up several switchbacks to reach the Long Ridge Road intersection again. From there, retrace your steps on the Hickory Oaks Connector and Hickory Oaks Trail back to the parking area.