The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve

The Purisima Creek, Craig Britton, Whittemore Gulch, and Borden Hatch Mill Loop offers a deep dive into the Santa Cruz Mountains' varied ecosystems. You'll trek through dense second-growth redwood forests, where the Craig Britton Trail provides exceptional scenery, and then climb to higher ridges for sweeping coastal views of the Pacific Ocean. Expect a mix of smooth singletrack and challenging old logging roads, with the Purisima Creek Canyon providing a lush, shaded contrast to the more open, sunnier sections.

This difficult hiking route spans 14.9 miles (24.0 km) with a substantial 2594 feet (791 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring around 7 hours and 23 minutes to complete. Parking is available at trailheads like Higgins Canyon Road or Skyline Boulevard, but arrive early on weekends as it's a very popular destination. Be prepared for muddy conditions if hiking during the wetter winter and spring months.

This extensive loop is a fantastic way to experience the ecological diversity of the Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve, combining towering redwoods with open meadows and creek-side paths. The presence of old logging roads and stumps also hints at the area's rich history. It's a rewarding challenge for those seeking a long, varied day on the trails.

Embark on a moderate hiking adventure through the Harkins Ridge, Craig Britton, and Purisima Creek Trail Loop, covering 7.1 miles (11.4 km) with an elevation gain of 1237 feet (377 metres). This route typically takes about 3 hours and 26 minutes to complete. You will experience a rich tapestry of landscapes, from the initial oak and bay forests to descending into lush coastal scrub. The trail then leads you through towering redwood groves, with the Purisima Creek Trail following the year-round creek, offering a peaceful atmosphere. As you climb Harkins Ridge, you can enjoy expansive views of the San Mateo County Coast and the Pacific Ocean, providing unique perspectives of the preserve's canopy.

This trail is accessible year-round, making it a great option for a cool, shaded escape during warmer months. If you plan to hike in winter after heavy rains, be prepared for potentially muddy conditions on certain sections of the path. Parking is generally available at the trailhead, so you should find a spot without much trouble. Always check local conditions before you head out, especially regarding weather and trail status, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.

The Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve is known for its diverse ecosystems, and this loop showcases many of them. You will traverse varied terrain, moving between different forest types and open ridges. The presence of the year-round Purisima Creek adds to the natural beauty and ecological richness of the area. This trail offers a comprehensive experience of the preserve's natural environment, highlighting its unique blend of coastal and redwood forest habitats.

If you're seeking a peaceful escape into the redwoods with a good dose of climbing, the Lonely, Raymundo and Mount Redondo Trail Loop is a solid pick. This moderate 5.2-mile (8.4 km) hike takes you through varied terrain, from packed earth to rocky sections, often following West Union Creek. You'll experience the quiet solitude of the aptly named Lonely Trail as it winds uphill through a mixed redwood and hardwood forest, eventually leading to lusher, larger redwoods and offering scenic views near Skyline Ridge.

Planning your visit is straightforward, but keep in mind that the trail can get muddy and slippery after rain, so checking the weather is a smart move. The area is popular, so arriving early for parking is recommended, especially on busy days. While the trail is generally quiet, some lower sections might have traffic noise from Highway 280. The estimated time to complete this loop is around 2 hours and 45 minutes, with a total elevation gain of 1285 feet (391 metres).

This loop offers a fantastic way to explore the redwood forests of the Phleger Estate and Huddart County Park. The changing forest, from mixed hardwoods to increasingly lush and larger redwoods, adds to the aesthetic appeal, making it a visually rewarding experience. The Mount Redondo Trail section is particularly noted for its scenic beauty, providing a memorable journey through this beautiful part of California.

Explore the Purisima Creek, Grabtown Gulch, and Borden Hatch Mill Loop, a moderate 6.0-mile (9.7 km) hike through stunning redwood forests.