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

Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve offers a variety of family-friendly hiking options. You'll find over 20 easy and moderate trails suitable for families, providing diverse experiences from short loops to longer excursions.

The preserve features diverse terrain, from gentle, flat paths around Upper Lake to moderate climbs through redwood and Douglas fir forests. Many trails offer extensive shade from the dense tree canopy, making for comfortable hikes even on warmer days. You'll encounter natural surfaces, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

Yes, for families with young children, the preserve offers several easy loop options. The Manzanita and Novitiate Loop Trail is a great choice, providing a pleasant 5.3 km (3.3 miles) walk with minimal elevation gain. The Upper Lake Loop Trail is also very accessible and features interpretive panels.

The preserve is rich in both natural beauty and history. You can explore towering redwood groves, including some impressive old-growth trees estimated to be 600 to 800 years old. The Upper Lake area features habitat restoration sites and historical artifacts like Ohlone mortars. You might also discover remnant foundations of former Gilded Age structures and a partially rebuilt Marian Shrine. Don't miss the Old Growth Redwood Trees highlight.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on trails in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the preserve enjoyable for everyone.

Absolutely. A significant draw of Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve is the extensive shade provided by the dense tree canopy, particularly in the redwood and Douglas fir forests. This makes it a comfortable destination for hiking even on warmer days, offering a cool retreat for families.

The preserve has designated parking areas. The main parking lot is conveniently located near Upper Lake, providing easy access to several trails. It's always a good idea to arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up.

For families with older children looking for a bit more challenge, the preserve offers moderate options. The Madrone Knoll Loop is a 12 km (7.5 miles) trail with a moderate climb, leading to Madrone Knoll which offers expansive views. Another great option is the Alma and Redwood Springs Loop, a moderately challenging 5-mile loop through peaceful redwood trees.

Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve is home to a diverse array of wildlife. Keep an eye out for mule deer, various bat species, and a wide variety of resident and migratory birds, including belted kingfishers and northern red-shafted flickers. If you're lucky, you might even spot a western pond turtle near the creeks or Upper Lake.

While there are no cafes directly within the preserve, the nearby town of Los Gatos offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to restaurants, perfect for a meal or snack after your family hike. It's just a short drive from the preserve.

The komoot community highly rates the trails in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning redwood forests, the peaceful atmosphere, and the well-maintained trails that cater to various skill levels, making it a favorite for family outings.

Yes, the preserve is home to some magnificent old-growth redwoods. The Old Growth Redwood Trees loop from Lexington Reservoir County Park (note: this area may have restricted access, check current status) offers a chance to experience these ancient giants. You can also find impressive old-growth trees accessible via trails leading towards Bear Creek Summit.