Some riders kick off a multi-loop day with Corral, but we recommend skipping it and putting your time and energy into the tracks further along. When you veer off on Corral, you avoid the most technical parts of Ridge as well as its toughest climbs.Ĭorral starts off with a half mile of prime singletrack, then continues on for another 1.2 miles of primitive logging road that features fun water bars to get a little air off of and dirt wall rides varying in difficulty from easy-peasy to highly advanced. 6 miles from Ridge/Aptos Creek Fire Road intersection. CorralĬorral is the first trailhead you come to on Ridge, just. Although Ridge is primarily ridden in the downhill direction, keep in mind that folks do climb it as well, so stay aware. The trail ranges from smooth and wide to rocky and tight. Ridge is a super fun descent in its own right, with a couple of punchy climbs that will keep you on your toes. The start of Ridge is located at the Santa Rosalia overlook, at the top of your climb to the crest. Ridge is an intermediate level singletrack trail that serves as a launching point for SDSF’s celebrated downhill runs. To stay in the loop about trail and road closures, follow the CAL FIRE SDSF Facebook page. CAL FIRE SDSF asks that you exercise caution and ride within your limits.ĭownload the SDSF brochure and trail map here. Be sure you’re prepared for an emergency such as an injury or bike mechanical. It’s also important to note that SDSF is located in a very remote area, with little to no cell signal. Due to the popularity of this riding destination, weekend visits are discouraged by CAL FIRE SDSF. The forest closes at dusk no night riding or camping allowed. There are no public facilities available, nor potable water sources. Please note that electric bikes are strictly forbidden at SDSF. Practice physical distancing and other safety measures to protect yourself and other trail users from COVID-19. Be nice! Say hi! We want everyone to love mountain bikes. Stop your bike, and step off to the side. On multi-direction service roads and trails, downhill riders must give way to those ascendingĪll bikes must yield to horses and hikers. When you need to pass a rider, do so on the left when safe. Bug spray isn’t a bad idea, either.īefore you head out, review your route and refresh yourself on this basic trail etiquette: Also, although much of the riding is shaded, there is still plenty of sunshine so sunscreen is a must.
#EASY MTB RIDE IN BAY AREA HOW TO#
In the “How to Get There” section below, we explain how to get to the Santa Rosalia overlook and the start of Ridge Trail, as well as how to get back out of SDSF from the bottom of the downhill runs.īecause it’s a pretty big day on the bike, it’s important to be prepared with ample hydration and nutrition in order to avoid bonking. Anyone riding at SDSF should have strong mountain bike handling skills and fitness.Īll of the downhill trails ultimately finish at Hihn’s Mill Road, a dirt service road that is closed to public vehicle access (although you may encounter CAL FIRE vehicles now and then). Taking on just one “lap” is often more than enough for some riders because of the significant amount of pedaling involved riding at SDSF.Įspecially fit and experienced riders can opt for multiple laps, sampling the diverse terrain found in the forest. Riders can choose from several exciting downhill runs that branch off from the crest of the mountain. Trails are suited for intermediate and advanced riders, with extensive climbs and challenging descents. SDSF is a popular destination for Santa Cruz County and Bay Area mountain bikers, as well as visitors from around the globe. Wildlife habitat and watershed protection are provided for as well. These forests, which total 71,000 areas throughout the state, are responsibly harvested to fund resource management programs.Īs with the other Demonstration State Forests located throughout California, SDSF offers opportunities for forest management research and education projects, as well as public recreation such as cycling, hiking, and horseback riding. The 2,681-acre SDSF, dedicated in 1990, is one of eight California Demonstration State Forests operated by CAL FIRE. Soquel Demonstration State Forest (SDSF), known colloquially as “Demo,” is a world-renowned mountain biking destination located in the Santa Cruz mountains off California’s central coast.Įach trail within the forest boasts its own unique character, but all offer an extraordinary experience riding amongst the coastal redwoods.
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