Mountain biking on Spring Ridge. Photo by Todd Scheuer.

Biking

Most of Midpen’s 220 miles of designated trails are unpaved “wildland” trails in steep, rugged terrain. Approximately 65% of these trails are multiuse trails that are open to bicyclists, which is the highest ratio of trails open to bikes among parks and open space in the Bay Area. Many of these trails are also single-track trails, providing bicyclists with a more technical experience.

Please Note: Activities may not be designated on all trails within a preserve — always refer to the map and trail signage for where the activity is permitted. Some trails are subject to seasonal closures, always check trail conditions and refer to signage

Access Guidelines

  • Helmets: Bicyclists are required to wear helmets, even when riding uphill, that meet the standards of the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission Standard for bicycle helmets, or ANSI or Snell-approved bicycle helmets on all Midpen lands. Helmet straps must be securely fastened when riding.
  • Speed limits: Control your speed at all times and obey the 15 mph speed limit (5 mph when passing or on blind turns). Racing and reckless riding are strictly prohibited.
  • Closed areas/off-trail use: Ride on designated trails only (those shown on Midpen maps for bicycle use). Closed area or off-trail use, including straying off the trail for jumps, “wallrides” and “whoop-de-dos” is strictly prohibited.

Sharing the Trails

Image
Share the trail. Bikes yield to equestrians and hikers, hikers yield to equestrians.

Midpen offers low-intensity recreational use consistent with resource protection and preservation. Many different users are out on the trails exploring open space.

To help make multiuse trails work, each user should keep in mind the needs of others. Bicyclists should always yield to all other trail users. On wide trails, slow down and pass with care. When encountering equestrians and hikers on narrow trails, make your presence known well in advance, particularly when approaching from behind. Stop and wait for them to pass or signal you through. Yield to other bicyclists traveling uphill.

Image
Trail Explorer App icon

Before you head out on your next outdoor adventure, use the Trail Explorer tool to find the Midpen trails best suited to you. 

Preserves open to mountain biking

Sixteen open space preserves are open to mountain biking († - all trails; *- designated trails only):

Electric bicycles (e-bikes)

Stay informed!

Sign up to receive project updates and notifications about bicycle use and trail access at Midpen.

Sign up for our newsletter to find out what’s happening in your open space!