Seasonal Cycling: What to Do in San Simeon during Your Fall Ride
When the weather turns crisp in San Simeon, you know it’s the right time to clip in for a new cycling season. In the fall, and November especially, the crowds have decreased and wildlife is foraging, providing a fresh riding experience. Read on to learn about the highlights of San Simeon, and brush up on the knowledge you’ll need to select the perfect route for your next trip.
Why Fall Is a Great Time for Road Cycling in San Simeon
The mild weather on the cusp of winter is perfect for cycling. The chilled air makes it easier to gear up and provides a brisk temperature backdrop as you push yourself on your route of choice. As another plus, those decreased crowds give you plenty of space to pedal to your heart’s content. There’s nothing in the way of breaking your personal records.
As you’re recharging your gears, check out the following spots in San Simeon.
The Reopened Sebastian’s General Store
Recently reopened across the street from the Hearst Ranch Winery tasting room, Sebastian’s General Store provides the ideal pit stop for your trek. Grab lunch at The Truck, choose a wine pairing, and then sit down at one of their outdoor tables for the refreshing bay view you earned—or reward yourself further by picking up a unique, historic souvenir.
Wildlife Wonders in the Fall
Autumn is when San Simeon’s wildlife really comes alive. The unique wildlife of the Central Coast is out for the fall as much as you are, including elephant seals, California condors, and, of course, the zebras of Hearst Castle. You can choose your route not just for how rigorous you want your cycling trip to be, but also based on which of these cool creatures you’d like to see. Take our Silver Peak Route past the Piedras Blancas Rookery for a look at the elephant seals, or head towards Big Sur to check out the avian wildlife, including those condors. Of course, there’s plenty of fauna on the Central Coast that can be seen on your bike trips year-round.
The Coffee Shop at Ragged Point
The coffee shop and sandwich bar at Ragged Point is a highlight any time of the year, but it’s especially suited for the fall. This restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week, so you can grab a Big Sur omelet, or a plate of street tacos to refuel for the next stretch of your cycling adventure.
Must-Try Cycling Routes in Fall
Choosing the right route for your ride is key to getting the most out of your fall cycling experience. It’s not just about how much you want your ride to hurt, it’s about connecting with and enjoying the seasonal nature. Each of these routes offers something unique, whether it’s the type of wildlife you’ll run across, the rewarding views, or the exhilaration of the exercise in getting there.
Coastal Cayucos Route
If you’re looking for an ideally balanced ride, check out our Coastal Cayucos Route. Take this all-asphalt trip to arrive at the charming town of Cayucos, where you can treat yourself to a deserved dessert from the Brown Butter Cookie Company or the Harmony Valley Creamery. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of places to stop and spot marine life along the crisp autumn scenery of the Coast.
Ragged Point Route
If you’re craving an adrenaline rush, take on our Ragged Point Route. This rigorous ride is full of challenging hills to make sure you’re getting the most of that refreshing fall air. It’s also designed to reward your efforts, with plenty of opportunities to spot animal attractions like elephant seals, the Hearst Castle zebras, and even orcas or humpbacks at a Whale Trail shore site.
Silver Peak Route
For experienced cyclists, there’s nothing like a new challenge, and nothing offers that like our Silver Peak Route. Push your limits as you only can in the crisp fall weather, heading down to sandy hidden coves on the coast, or taking the time to hop off your bike and hike the Salmon Creek Trail near Ragged Point. As a unique bonus, keep your eyes to the sky for sightings of the California condor.
Ride Full Force Into Fall
For cyclists in San Simeon, the fall has it all. Pitch-perfect pit stops have reopened, and the rewarding wonders of nature are visible in full force. This all makes autumn the ideal season to challenge that route you’ve been eyeing, and know that your efforts will be worth it. Don’t take our word for it, pedal up and experience this autumn adventure for yourself.