Pine Flat Road
Healdsburg, California
Road
33 miles | 1,900 ft elevation
Healdsburg is centrally located in the valley of Sonoma County’s wine country, making it the perfect destination for rides of all types. Surrounded by hills and wineries, this route offers a mix of flat vineyard miles as well as a long climb up Pine Flat Road with expansive views of the valley below.
Starting near the Healdsburg town plaza, head north on Grove Street towards Alexander Valley. Once you leave town, you will make the descent on Alexander Valley Road and once you cross the Russian River you’ll enter a valley of grapevines. After passing the Jimtown Store, continue on Pine Flat Road around mile 7.
The climbing begins right away as you ride below the trees. The grades will be gentle at first before picking up later as the miles pass. Soon the road will become more exposed as you leave the trees behind and the views of the valley appear before you. The grade will increase as you continue to make the ascent on this out-and-back climb, so when you’re ready, turn around to head back to the bottom (This route turns around about 12 miles into the ride. An alternative route with the entire climb is also linked below, but please note, I have not done the second half of the climb so I cannot speak to the details. I have heard it gets very steep.)
Although this road is quiet, ride cautiously on your descent as the road has numerous blind corners, cattle guards and rough patches. When you reach the bottom, make a right onto Red Winery Road and wind through the vineyards for 3 miles. Around mile 21, continue along California State Route 128 for the next 5 miles until you enter the town of Geyserville. Stop in town for a snack at one of the mini-markets if you like and then head south on Geyserville Avenue, riding parallel to the freeway as you make your way back to Healdsburg.
For more routes from Healdsburg, see the Healdsburg landing page.
Strava Route:
Long Route (full Pine Flat - 51 miles | 4,250 ft)
Note: I have not completed the entire climb to the top, so I cannot provide details or notes about this section. I have heard it gets very steep.
Hotel Recommendation
Harmon Guest House – this chic, modern hotel is located in the center of town, near Healdsburg Plaza, and is within walking distance to many restaurants, wine bars and shops. The hotel is bike friendly and the rooms are spacious and comfy. The highlight of this property is The Rooftop, where you can admire the views while sipping on wine (or a cocktail) and enjoying a bite to eat.
Hotel Trio Healdsburg (by Marriott) - this hotel is located 1 mile north of Healdsburg Plaza, and in my opinion, is the perfect place to stay during a wine country bike trip! The rooms are suite-style and come with a fully equipped kitchen. They offer a free breakfast (that's actually good!) and their large outdoor patio and pool are perfect for soaking in the sun after a long ride. It is located right next to the Foss Creek Pathway, which makes it easy to walk or ride into the heart of town (about a 25 minute walk or 7 minute ride), or you can take the hotel's free shuttle.
Healdsburg is known for its farm-to-table restaurants, artisan bakeries, and local wine bars; so, enjoy your time in this quaint town!
Notes
Pine Flat Road is very remote and there are no services or water, so be prepared to be self-supported. Be mindful of the weather forecast, especially on hot days, and bring ample hydration.
The best place to park for free and for several hours is along Vine Street, across from the Safeway (plus, the bathrooms in Safeway are clean). The City of Healdsburg website has more info on parking, including EV charging stations.
Weather is great for riding all year long, but can get hot in the summer and is sometimes affected by “fire season”.
Weekend afternoons can be busy with cars as people drive to nearby wineries. You may want to plan accordingly so your ride ends by early afternoon.
The patio at Healdsburg Bar & Grill is a great post-ride spot for some food and nice ambiance. It’s casual and you can bring your bike on the patio.
Explore the town off-bike! There are many cute shops and places to pop-in for a snack.
cyclingjenny.com aims to provide content that is true and accurate as of the date of writing; however, the accuracy and judgement of the author is not guaranteed. cyclingjenny.com and its associates are in no way liable for personal injury, loss or damage to personal property, or any other such situation that should occur to individuals following the guides, routes and recommendations. Please review the full Terms & Disclaimer.