Wilder Ranch State Park – Eucalyptus Loop Trail loop from Swift Halt
Wilder Ranch State Park – Eucalyptus Loop Trail loop from Swift Halt
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(6437)
18,899
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Wilder Ranch State Park – Eucalyptus Loop Trail loop from Swift Halt
04:08
43.9km
860m
Cycling
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment that goes up or down a series of steps
You may need to carry your bike.
After 43.0 km for 1 m
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
3.36 km
Wilder Ranch State Park
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
23.4 km
Engelsman Loop Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
29.5 km
Eucalyptus Loop Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
35.3 km
University of California, Santa Cruz Water Tanks
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
36.7 km
Seep Zone – Chinquapin Road and Fuel Break Road Junction
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
38.1 km
Upper Moore Creek Natural Reserve
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
42.5 km
Arroyo Seco Canyon
Highlight • Canyon
43.6 km
Companion Bakeshop
Highlight • Cafe
Tip by
43.9 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
23.9 km
8.75 km
6.14 km
4.22 km
902 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
30.3 km
11.1 km
2.34 km
149 m
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Elevation
Highest point (360 m)
Lowest point (10 m)
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Weather
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Today
Thursday 18 June
18°C
13°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a challenging and diverse touring cycling experience in the Santa Cruz area, the Wilder Ranch State Park – Eucalyptus Loop Trail loop from Swift Halt delivers. This difficult 27.3-mile (43.9 km) route, with a significant 2819 feet (859 metres) of elevation gain, will take you around 4 hours and 8 minutes to complete. It's best suited for cyclists with very good fitness and a bike capable of handling varied terrain, offering a rewarding journey through one of the Bay Area's top cycling destinations.
What to expect on Wilder Ranch State Park – Eucalyptus Loop Trail loop from Swift Halt
This route is a true journey through changing landscapes, offering a mix of sun-baked fire roads, narrow singletrack through open meadows, and wooded switchbacks. While some segments are paved, be prepared for unpaved sections that can be challenging for traditional touring bikes, potentially requiring you to push your bike. You'll wind through diverse environments, from oak woodlands and open grasslands to redwood-filled canyons, though many redwoods are smaller due to past logging. Keep an eye out for stunning wildflowers and enjoy ocean views from various vantage points, including a rest spot near Chinquapin Trail that offers views of Monterey Bay. The western part of the Eucalyptus Loop features enjoyable downhill sections that can be fast, but watch for slippery loose gravel and ruts on turns.
Planning your visit
The trail starts from Swift Halt, a convenient access point within Wilder Ranch State Park. As this is a popular area for Wilder Ranch State Park cycling trails, arriving early is always a good idea, especially on weekends, to secure parking. The park itself is a hub for outdoor activity, so be prepared to share the trails with other users. While there are no specific permit requirements mentioned, always check the official park website for any updates on conditions or access before you go. Given the sun-baked fire-road climbs, carrying plenty of water is advisable, particularly during warmer months.
Trail details
- Distance: 27.3 miles (43.9 km)
- Elevation gain: 2819 feet (859 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 4 hours and 8 minutes
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