Scenic Cycling on the Central Coast: Wildflowers
Whether you’re a wildflower enthusiast or just seeking a burst of color on your cycling adventure, the Central Coast is the place to be. Wildflowers paint the landscape in hues of beauty during peak wildflower season, making every route a scenic masterpiece that complements the adrenaline and fatigue on asphalt and gravel. Check out our routes and plot out your one-of-a-kind, vibrant trip for the season.
Plan Your Trip
The most vivid time for wildflower season is from March to May, and specific routes offer multiple areas to witness the floral spectacle. Cycling on the Central Coast is always a scenic delight, but the blooming wildflowers add a bonus pop of color to your ride. To optimize your tour, choose a route that goes through multiple floral hotspots.
San Simeon
Explore the San Simeon area, known for its diverse wildflower displays during the season. The Ragged Point Route takes you to Ragged Point itself as well as the Piedras Blancas Light Station, both offering stunning views. Enhance your cycling trip with a scenic hike along the Junge Ranch Trail or the Boucher Trail, adding another layer of natural beauty to your journey.
Super Bloom Along Highway 1
Experience coastal cliffs bursting with color during the “super bloom” along Highway 1 that often occurs during California’s early spring. Both the Silver Peak Route and Ragged Point Route provide excellent views of this phenomenon. Take the Coastal Cayucos Route to reach a vista point at the Cabrillo Highway where you can catch sight of beautiful wildflowers at the Estero Bluffs.
Fiscalini Ranch Preserve
A definitive location for flora enthusiasts on the Central Coast, the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve boasts year-round wildflower blooms. Ride on the ranch’s cycling trails, or hop off to take a hike through the meadows, such as the Bluff Trail. (The Bluff Trail is the only trail in the preserve that doesn’t allow bicycles.) The preserve also offers a comprehensive plant and wildflower guide. Pair this location with our Cambria Route for an exhilarating ride.
Montaña de Oro State Park
Translating to “Mountain of Gold,” Montaña de Oro State Park is named specifically for the stunning golden wildflowers that burst into full bloom each spring. The rugged trails in the park provide a thrilling cycling experience, and with overnight camping available, it can become a trip all on its own. Check out the Montaña de Oro Route to see this amazing park.
Pico Creek Beach
A less-traveled hidden gem along the Gorda Route, Pico Creek Beach is a tranquil spot ideal for pausing and admiring the vibrant flowers. The beach offers beautiful sunsets that complement the stunning scenery of the area. Plus, if you enjoy surfing, this is a popular wave-catching destination.
The Wildflower Century
Gear up for the ultimate cycling challenge with the Wildflower Century, a marathon-length ride held by the San Luis Obispo Bicycle Club. Timed to coincide with the peak of wildflower season in late April, this event features multiple routes through varied environments, including significant climbs. Bonus highlights include photos, food, and the option to order custom event jerseys. This is definitely a must-attend on the Central Coast for cycling enthusiasts.
Explore the Floral Central Coast
Explore our routes, plan your trip, book your stay, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of wildflowers on the Central Coast. Whether you’re riding in a specific event or simply reveling in the season’s bloom, let the vibrant colors of the Central Coast enhance your next cycling adventure.