Just about an hour south of San Francisco you can step into another world and walk among redwood giants. If Fern Gully was real, this would be the exact place to find woodland fairies! One of our all-time favorite hikes is the Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve. This park has over 24 miles of trails, some with steep inclines so you will really be getting your cardio! If you are visiting the coastal Half Moon Bay area this is a great half-day hike. Click here to get directions to any of the trailheads.

We always start at the bottom of the trail (Higgins Canyon Rd) and hike up to the top of the mountain. This way we get a good workout early on and the view from the top makes it all worth the burn.

The scenery begins deep in the redwoods with 300 foot tall redwood trees covering the sky. The forest floor is filled with ferns and a creek that runs for miles. As you travel upwards more and more light peeps through until it's all open sky.

At the top you can see gorgeous views of the forest skyline reaching all the way to the ocean. I highly recommend this trail for anyone in the Bay Area looking for a great day trip outdoors. Soak up the sunshine, pack the sunscreen and hit the trail!

A Quick Overview om Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve

Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve spans over 4,700 acres and is known for its towering redwood trees, scenic creeks, lush ferns, and diverse wildlife. Managed by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, this preserve boasts more than 24 miles of well-maintained hiking trails suitable for all levels of hikers, making it an ideal destination whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging adventure.

Getting to Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve

The main entrance to the preserve is located off Skyline Boulevard (Highway 35), and there are multiple parking areas available, though they can fill up quickly on weekends and holidays. It’s best to arrive early in the day to secure a spot and enjoy the peaceful ambiance before the trails become busy with fellow hikers.

The Trails at Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve

Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve offers a variety of hiking options, with trails ranging from easy to strenuous. Some of the more popular routes include:

Purisima Creek Trail

One of the most scenic and accessible trails in the preserve, the Purisima Creek Trail follows the creek that gives the preserve its name. This relatively moderate trail is about 7 miles round-trip and takes you through old-growth redwoods, alongside the babbling creek, and past patches of vibrant ferns. It’s a great introduction to the preserve’s natural beauty, with plenty of opportunities to pause and take in the sights and sounds of the forest.

Whittemore Gulch Trail

If you’re looking for a more challenging hike with rewarding views, the Whittemore Gulch Trail is a must-try. The trail ascends steadily and offers panoramic views of Half Moon Bay and the Pacific Ocean as you climb through various ecosystems, from redwood groves to open grassy ridges. It’s a perfect option for those seeking a mix of forested trails and breathtaking coastal views.

Harkins Ridge Trail

For the seasoned hiker, Harkins Ridge Trail offers a strenuous 8-mile loop with a good amount of elevation gain. Starting from the Purisima Creek Trail, it climbs sharply up to the ridge, offering both serene forested paths and wide-open vistas of the surrounding mountains. The descent provides a great workout and showcases the diversity of flora in the preserve, from towering redwoods to chaparral scrub.

The Magic of the Redwoods

The preserve’s centerpiece is undoubtedly its ancient redwood trees. These towering giants, some of which are over 1,000 years old, create a cathedral-like canopy that filters sunlight and cools the forest floor below. The smell of the damp earth, the sound of birdsong, and the soft whisper of wind through the redwood boughs provide a tranquil experience that soothes the soul.

As you walk beneath these towering trees, it’s easy to feel a sense of connection to nature’s ancient cycles. Redwood trees are a symbol of resilience and longevity, having survived for centuries through fire, storms, and changes in climate. Walking among them, you can’t help but feel a sense of awe and respect for the natural world.

Wildlife and Flora

Beyond the redwoods, the preserve is home to a diverse array of plants and animals. You might spot deer, squirrels, and an array of bird species like hawks and woodpeckers along the trails. If you’re hiking in the spring or early summer, keep an eye out for wildflowers such as trillium, columbine, and Douglas iris that line the forest floor, adding pops of color to the lush green surroundings.

Tips for Your Hike

Wear sturdy shoes

While many trails are well-maintained, some sections can be steep and uneven, especially after rainfall.

Bring Plenty of Water

There are no water stations along the trails, so make sure you have enough for the duration of your hike.

Pack layers

The weather in the Santa Cruz Mountains can be unpredictable. Even on warm days, the shaded redwood groves can be cool and damp.

Leave no trace

As with all natural areas, be sure to pack out what you bring in and respect the wildlife and plants you encounter.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a peaceful day in nature, Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve offers something for everyone. The beauty of its ancient redwoods, the tranquility of its trails, and the diversity of its ecosystems make it a must-visit destination in the Bay Area. So, lace up your hiking boots, grab a camera, and head to Purisima Creek to experience the wonder of the redwoods for yourself!