Moonstone Beach – Fiscalini Ranch Preserve loop from Santa Rosa Creek Natural Preserve

If you're looking at the "Moonstone Beach – Fiscalini Ranch Preserve loop from Santa Rosa Creek Natural Preserve" and expecting a single, continuous touring cycling route, you'll want to adjust your expectations. This Komoot route, despite its name, actually combines two distinct and geographically separate cycling experiences in California. However, if you're interested in exploring both a coastal gem and a serene creek-side path, this easy touring cycling route covers a total of 6.1 miles (9.8 km) with 239 feet (73 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 43 minutes to complete. It's an ideal choice for those seeking varied scenery without strenuous effort, offering a taste of both Central Coast beauty and Sonoma County's pastoral charm.

What to expect on Moonstone Beach – Fiscalini Ranch Preserve loop from Santa Rosa Creek Natural Preserve

This route offers a dual experience. In Cambria, the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve provides stunning coastal views along trails like the Bluff Trail and Marine Terrace Trail, which are generally easy to intermediate. You'll cycle past diverse ecosystems, from coastal prairie to Monterey pine forests, with opportunities to spot abundant wildflowers and wildlife. The artistic benches along the Bluff Trail offer perfect spots to pause and soak in the Pacific Ocean vistas. In Sonoma County, the Santa Rosa Creek Trail offers a smoother, mostly paved ride through a wooded corridor alongside Santa Rosa Creek, with views of farms, vineyards, and distant mountains. This section is flat and ideal for a relaxed ride, connecting to other trails for longer excursions.

Planning your visit

Given that this route spans two distinct locations, planning involves considering both. For the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve in Cambria, many trails are multi-use, shared with hikers and equestrians, so be mindful of others. Road cyclists might find some unpaved sections challenging, so gravel or mountain bikes are recommended for the preserve. The Santa Rosa Creek Trail in Sonoma County is largely paved, making it suitable for most touring bicycles. Both locations are generally accessible, but always check local conditions before heading out, especially for seasonal changes or potential closures.

Trail details

• Distance: 6.1 miles (9.8 km)
• Elevation gain: 239 feet (73 metres)
• Difficulty: easy
• Estimated time: 43 minutes