Fall Is for Cyclists
As summer blows by and the coastal breeze cools, the Central Coast transforms into a cyclist’s playground. The air gets crisp, the crowds thin, and from Cambria to San Simeon, winding roads and vineyard views await those who are ready to crush some autumn miles.
If you’re chasing peak performance without the heat, or looking to pair scenic climbs with well-earned mid-ride stops, this is your season. Fall brings the best of both worlds with ride-ready temps and local events like Cambria’s Scarecrow Festival that turn your ride into a unique adventure—you might even spot a cycling scarecrow on your ride.
The Central Coast doesn’t just offer routes—it creates unforgettable riding experiences, and fall is a perfect time of year to soak it all in.
The Perks of Fall Riding on the Central Coast
Cooler Temperatures = Peak Performance
Forget overheating in the middle of the day. Fall’s lower temps let you push harder and recover faster. Whether you’re out for a long spin or chasing PRs, the cooler climate supports endurance efforts and more aggressive elevation gains.
All this means that you can ride longer without overheating, tackle leg-burners with better recovery, and even hit your climbs in full-on hammerfest mode.
Plus, with fewer vacationers, the roads from Cambria to San Simeon can often open up more than in previous seasons.
Harvest Season = Fun & Flavorful Stops
Autumn isn’t just a break in the weather—it’s a celebration of the harvest. Think wine country in full swing, seasonal farm stands, and small-town events that are pure Central Coast charm. The wine tasting rooms in Harmony and Cambria are hitting their peak season, while local markets and shops in towns offer seasonal snacks perfect for mid-ride fuel or as post-ride rewards. And for a truly unique fall experience, you can look forward to Cambria’s Scarecrow Festival transforming the town into an artistically quirky showcase to cycle through.
Top Fall Cycling Routes + Harvest Highlights
Cayucos Loop: The Wine & Grind Ride
This 47-mile loop blends rugged climbs and rolling vineyards with just enough local flavor to keep you motivated. Start in Cambria and climb out via Santa Rosa Creek Road before descending into Cayucos and looping back along Highway 1.
Highlights:
- Parr Collective at Stolo Vineyards – A must-stop with wines flavored by the coastal microclimate
- Cayucos Cellars – A rustic, family-run gem with bold flavors and quintessential charm
- Harmony Cellars – At the top of the hill in this small town, the views are almost as good as the wine
Pro tip: Ride early to crush the hills in cooler temps, then toast your effort with a post-ride tasting.
Green Valley Loop: Fall Colors + Ocean Breeze
This 36-mile route offers golden hillsides tempered by sharp climbs and punctuated by a stunning payoff: ocean views that are somehow even more breathtaking in fall’s softer light.
End your loop back in Cambria and treat yourself to a seasonal tasting flight at Parr Collective at Stolo Vineyards, where you can enjoy delicious flavors paired with a gorgeous backdrop.
Bonus Stop: Cambria Scarecrow Festival
Every October, Cambria rolls out the Scarecrow Festival: over 200 hand-crafted scarecrows that line the town’s roads, sidewalks, and storefronts. Both of the routes above pass through town, making it the perfect detour for a quirky photo op or quick snack break—or just a chance to spin through town with the sights of the scarecrows cheering you on.
It’s weird, it’s whimsical, and it’s everything we love about cycling on the Central Coast.
Strava Segments to Conquer This Fall
For cyclists chasing more than just views, the Central Coast delivers a serious test of legs and lungs. If you’re ready to grind, these two Strava segments highlight the grit, grade, and glory of fall riding around Cambria and San Simeon.
San Simeon Creek Rd Climb
- Distance: 0.53 mi | Elevation Gain: 302 ft | Avg Grade: 11.3%
- View on Strava
Short. Sharp. Savage. This steep punchy climb doesn’t give you time to warm up—it demands full send from the jump. With double-digit gradients and no room to coast, this Category 4 climb is a favorite for riders who like to push themselves… and then smile about it.
Why ride it:
- Max effort, minimal distance
- Hidden gem with rewarding scenery
- Killer fall views once you hit the summit
Santa Rosa Creek – The Steep Part
- Distance: 1.69 mi | Elevation Gain: 843 ft | Avg Grade: 9.4%
- View on Strava
The name says it all—this is the part where Santa Rosa Creek Road stops being scenic and starts being a grind. With nearly 850 feet of gain in under two miles, this Category 3 segment is the ultimate test piece for fall training rides.
Why ride it:
- A gut-check climb with elite-level punch
- Coastal canyons lined with wide views
Tips for a Safe + Rewarding Fall Ride
- Layer up – Mornings are brisk, but you’ll warm up quickly once you hit your first climb.
- Use our route maps – Find Strava links for all featured routes on CycleCentralCoast.com.
- Lights on – Sunset comes earlier in fall—bring your lights and stay visible for those golden hour rides.
How To Join the Community This Fall
- Tag @CycleCentralCoast in your fall ride posts and photos for a chance to be featured.
- Join the CCC Strava Club and track your rides with fellow cyclists.
- Ready to ride? Plan your cycling trip and lodging now.
Riding in the fall isn’t just about pretty views (though, let’s be real—they’re fire). It’s about better performance, quieter roads, and stops that let you fuel up on the season’s best flavors. Whether you’re chasing KOMs or just chasing the sights beyond the next hill, the Central Coast is calling.
So gear up, go full send, and make fall your favorite riding season yet.