The Big Ride: A Legendary Mountain Biking Challenge in Santa Cruz

The Big Ride is an epic adventure for mountain biking enthusiasts, combining long climbs, thrilling descents, and some of the best trails in the Forest of Nisene Marks and Soquel Demonstration Forest. This challenging loop offers a mix of fire roads and technical singletrack, stunning views, and an unforgettable journey through Santa Cruz’s iconic landscapes.

Adventure Guide to The Big Ride

Key Facts:

• Location: Forest of Nisene Marks and Soquel Demonstration Forest, Santa Cruz County.
• Distance: Approximately 50 miles round trip, depending on your trail choices.
• Elevation Gain: ~5,000 feet of climbing.
• Terrain: Fire roads, technical singletrack, and steep climbs.
• Skill Level: Advanced, due to the endurance required and technical features.

Route Highlights:

Part 1: Climbing to Sand Point and Overlook

1. The Initial Climb:
   Start on the fire road heading east, with a gentle 3% grade for the first 4 miles. This section is a pleasant warm-up as the road winds through redwoods and along the creek.

2. Steeper Inclines:
   Around mile 4, the grade increases to 4–10% for a couple of miles, with sustained climbing up to Sand Point (9 miles in, 1,600 feet). Sand Point offers benches and panoramic views, making it a perfect spot for a break before continuing.

3. Climbing to Overlook:
   Beyond Sand Point, the road becomes steeper, occasionally reaching 28%. Push on to the Overlook (mile 12.5, ~2,500 feet), where the effort is rewarded with stunning vistas and a sense of accomplishment. This marks the entrance to Soquel Demonstration Forest.

Part 2: Descending Through Demo Forest

1. Ridge Trail and Singletrack Descent:
   Drop into the Demo Forest via the Ridge Trail. Choose from several thrilling singletrack options:

   • Sawpit Trail: A fast, flowy descent with some technical sections.
   • Braille Trail: For advanced riders seeking features like teeter-totters, log rides, and jumps, Braille is a highlight.

2. Climbing Back Up:
   After ripping through the singletrack, climb back up the fire road to Highland Way. This climb can be grueling, but it’s part of the Big Ride experience.

Part 3: The Final Loop

1. Highland Way to Buzzard Lagoon:
   Roll and climb along Highland Way, turning right onto Buzzard Lagoon Fire Road. The gradual climb continues, testing your stamina as you approach the next section.

2. Cochise Singletrack:
   At the fire road junction, go left. Look for Cochise Singletrack on the right. This forested singletrack is known for its peaceful solitude and rumored echoes of distant chanting.

3. Final Push to Overlook and Downhill:
   Rejoin the fire road and head back to the Overlook for one last stretch. From here, it’s a glorious 12.5-mile downhill ride back to your starting point, a well-earned finale to this epic adventure.

Why Ride Here:

The Big Ride offers an unparalleled combination of endurance-testing climbs, world-class singletrack, and breathtaking views. This ride is not just a test of skill and stamina but a celebration of the natural beauty and diverse trails that make Santa Cruz a mountain biking mecca.

Pro Tips for Riders:

• Pack Wisely: Bring plenty of water, snacks, and tools, as this is a remote and lengthy ride with no developed water sources.
• Pace Yourself: With over 5,000 feet of climbing, conserving energy during the climbs is crucial for enjoying the descents.
• Prepare for Technical Trails: The singletrack in Demo Forest features advanced features; ensure your bike and skills are up to the challenge.
• Post-Ride Recovery: Bring ibuprofen and a hearty post-ride meal—your body will thank you!

The Big Ride is a quintessential Santa Cruz experience for seasoned mountain bikers. With its blend of challenging climbs and exhilarating descents, this ride is sure to leave you exhausted, exhilarated, and planning your next adventure.