Longwall Canyon Trail

The Bald Peaks and Longwall Canyon Loop offers a dynamic mountain biking experience through Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve, blending shaded oak forests with open grasslands and panoramic views from Bald Peaks Viewpoint. This moderate 8.0-mile (12.9 km) route, with its 1428 feet (435 metres) of elevation gain, is a fantastic choice for riders seeking diverse terrain and a good workout, typically taking about 1 hour and 29 minutes to complete. You'll encounter everything from smooth fire roads to challenging singletrack, including a notable steep climb, making it best suited for experienced mountain bikers.

Planning your ride, you'll find the trail accessible without general entrance fees or permits, though checking the park's official website for current conditions is always a good idea. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers and lush greenery, while autumn offers comfortable temperatures for tackling the significant climbs. For the most enjoyable descent flow, many riders opt to complete the loop in a counter-clockwise direction.

What sets this route apart is its diverse character and the strategic riding direction that enhances the experience. The Longwall Canyon Trail is particularly praised for its

The Lisa Killough Trail – Lisa Killough Trail Viewpoint loop offers a rewarding mountain biking experience through the varied landscapes of Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve and Calero County Park. You'll navigate flowing singletrack through exposed grasslands and occasional oak groves, with the terrain shifting between unpaved paths and gravel sections. The highlight is undoubtedly "Lisa's Lookout," providing sweeping panoramic views of the Diablo Range and Santa Cruz Mountains, especially vibrant during seasonal wildflower displays in March and April.

Planning your ride means preparing for a difficult 22.7-mile (36.5 km) journey with 3169 feet (966 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring around 3 hours and 54 minutes. The Lisa Killough Trail itself has mild grades, but the full loop demands very good fitness and advanced riding skills. Remember that the Lisa Killough Trail in Calero County Park is one-way southbound for bikes, and it's advisable to carry bike tools due to potential isolation and poor cell reception.

This trail is a significant segment of the larger Bay Area Ridge Trail, connecting two major open space preserves. It's considered a hidden treasure for local riders, offering diverse loop options by combining it with other trails. Dogs are welcome on a leash, and the preserve permits hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding, with specific yielding rules for trail users.