Purisima Creek, Craig Britton and Skyline Trail Loop

The loop can be accessed from various points, but a common starting point is near the Skyline Trailhead & Boulevard. Parking is typically available along Skyline Boulevard. Always check for specific parking regulations and availability, especially on busy weekends.

This loop is generally considered moderate to challenging. It features significant elevation changes, including long climbs and descents, requiring good physical fitness. While some sections are moderate, be prepared for steep uphill and downhill stretches, particularly the climb back to Skyline along trails like the Craig Britton and Harkins Ridge.

You'll experience a remarkable diversity of scenery. The trail takes you through towering second-growth redwood forests, especially impressive in areas like Soda Gulch and along the Upper Purisima Creek Trail 🌲. As you ascend, you'll transition to sunny coastal scrub and ridgelines, offering grand, sweeping views of Half Moon Bay and the Pacific Ocean, including Pillar Point Overlook.

No, dogs are generally not allowed on the trails within Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve to protect wildlife and natural habitats. Please check the official preserve rules before planning your visit.

This loop offers year-round appeal due to the mild climate. The shaded redwood sections provide a cool escape during warmer months, while the well-maintained and effectively draining trails hold up well during the wetter seasons. Spring brings wildflowers, and fall offers crisp air and clear views.

Generally, there are no entrance fees or permits required for day-use hiking in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve. However, it's always a good idea to check the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District's official website for any updated regulations or specific permit requirements for group activities.

This loop typically takes around 4 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery. The total distance is approximately 13.2 km (8.2 miles).

The preserve is home to various wildlife. You might spot deer, various bird species, and if you're lucky, a bobcat, like the one sometimes seen near Bobcat in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve. Remember to observe wildlife from a distance and never feed animals.

Yes, this route is part of a larger network. A significant portion of the loop follows the Bay Area Ridge Trail - 04 - San Francisco and Peninsula. It also incorporates sections of the Purisima Creek Trail, the Craig Britton Trail, and the Harkins Ridge Trail, offering connections to other parts of the preserve's 24 miles of trails.

This loop is notable for its exceptional blend of diverse ecosystems, transitioning from deep, shaded redwood canyons to open hilltops with panoramic ocean views. It offers a sense of solitude despite being conveniently located near Silicon Valley and San Francisco, making it a perfect escape into nature.

Absolutely! The Craig Britton Trail is particularly renowned for some of the best redwood scenery within the preserve. Additionally, the Upper Purisima Creek Trail 🌲 and areas like Soda Gulch also feature impressive towering redwoods.