The best walks and hikes around Woodside
4.7
(341)
4,975
hikers
20
hikes
If you've ever tried planning a hike around Woodside, CA, you know how quickly the options can become overwhelming. With so many trails winding through the Santa Cruz Mountains, it's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and which are just filler. That's where we come in: komoot's community has walked, ridden, and reviewed these trails, and we've distilled all that local knowledge into a curated shortlist of the best hiking trails Woodside California has to offer.
โฆLast updated: May 10, 2026
5.0
(2)
38
hikers
4.99km
01:32
190m
190m
Step into a world of towering redwoods and lush madrone groves on the Bear Gulch, Redwood, and Madrone Trail Loop. This easy 3.1-mile (5.0 km) hike guides you through theโฆ
6
hikers
7.01km
02:20
330m
320m
The Summit Springs to Teague Hill Loop offers a moderate 4.4-mile (7.0 km) hike through the diverse woodlands of the Santa Cruz Mountains. You'll gain 1083 feet (330 metres) inโฆ
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3.55km
00:57
50m
40m
The Portola Trail offers a delightful, easy hike through the serene landscapes of Portola Valley. You'll wander along a gentle singletrack path, passing through peaceful oak woodlands and open grasslandโฆ
19.2km
05:25
340m
520m
Old La Honda Road offers a unique hiking experience, primarily along a narrow, paved road that winds through a beautiful, tree-lined landscape. You'll start in the oak woodlands near Woodsideโฆ
4.9
(7)
86
hikers
7.32km
02:15
290m
290m
The Bear Gulch and Alambique Trail Loop offers a fantastic moderate hiking experience, weaving through the varied terrain and rich forests of Wunderlich County Park. You'll traverse extensive redwood groves,โฆ
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Other adventures around Woodside
Tips from the Community
This is where La Ronda Road meets Skyline Boulevard. After the climb, itโs the perfect place to recharge and grab something to eat at one of the nearby restaurants or grocery stores. Alise's Restaurant is a popular one.
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Wunderlich Park, spanning 942 acres, is picturesque, with a beautiful mix of chaparral and redwood forest, expansive meadows, and striking oak and madrone trees. There is plenty of open space featuring a network of lovely hiking trails. Donated to the county by Martin Wunderlich, this area includes what was once the Folger family ranch. The stable and surrounding buildings have been meticulously restored, serving as a cherished historic landmark for the community. Dogs are not allowed in the park, so you'll need to leave your pup at home.
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This wide trail guides you through a variety of mixed forests, including redwoods, California coffeeberry, California hazelnut, and California bay. As you gradually ascend by approximately 1,000 feet, prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking views of the surrounding Redwood area.
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Take a moment to sit, unwind, and fully appreciate your surroundings at the two destination points equipped with benches. Immerse yourself in the diverse and captivating mixed forest environment, featuring Douglas fir, tan oak, coyote bush, and an array of other fascinating flora.
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Just beautiful nature
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Woodside?
Woodside offers a diverse selection of nearly 20 hiking routes. These trails cater to various skill levels, including 11 easy, 5 moderate, and 2 difficult options.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Woodside's hiking trails?
Hiking around Woodside features a landscape characterized by rolling hills, dense redwood forests, and open space preserves. You'll find varied terrain, from gentle paths alongside creeks to more challenging ascents with significant elevation gain.
Are there any easy trails suitable for beginners or a relaxed walk?
Yes, Woodside has 11 easy trails. A great option for a relaxed walk is the Schilling Lake via Shilling Lake Trail โ Thornewood Open Space Preserve, which is about 1.6 miles long and takes around 41 minutes to complete.
What are some notable landmarks or natural features to look out for while hiking in Woodside?
Woodside's trails offer access to several interesting natural and man-made features. You might encounter the unique Tafoni Sandstone Formation, enjoy views from Windy Hill Summit or Byrne Preserve Lookout, or visit the historic Pulgas Water Temple.
Are there any trails that pass by lakes or water features?
While hiking in the Woodside area, you can find trails near various water bodies. Highlights include Oracle Lagoon and Arastradero Lake. The region also features natural areas like Ravenswood Open Space Preserve and Emily Renzel Wetlands.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Woodside?
The trails in Woodside are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 100 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, beautiful redwood forests, and well-maintained paths.
Are there any moderate hiking options for those looking for a bit more challenge?
Yes, Woodside offers 5 moderate trails. A popular choice is the Bear Gulch and Alambique Trail, a 4.5-mile route that typically takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes to complete, featuring varied forested terrain.
What is the most challenging hike available in Woodside?
For experienced hikers seeking a significant challenge, the Alambique & Skyline Trail Loop โ Wunderlich County Park is a difficult 10.4-mile path. This route includes substantial elevation changes and extends through Wunderlich County Park.
Are there any shorter loop trails suitable for a quick outing?
For a shorter loop, consider the Wunderlich County Park โ Bear Gulch Trail loop from Woodside. This easy route is about 3.2 miles long and offers a pleasant experience within Wunderlich County Park.
Can I find trails that offer a good workout without being overly long?
Absolutely. The Bear Gulch Trail โ Alambique Trail loop from Woodside is a moderate 4.4-mile route with about 930 feet of elevation gain, providing a good workout in approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes.
What kind of natural environment defines the hiking experience in Woodside?
The hiking experience in Woodside is largely defined by its redwood forests, rolling hills, and expansive open space preserves. These protected natural areas offer diverse ecosystems and scenic beauty throughout the trail network.
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