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San Jose, California
Purissima Creek
San Mateo County
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San Jose, California |
Purissima Creek San Mateo County |
The Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve is located on the western slopes of the Santa Cruz
Mountains overlooking Half Moon Bay. The preserve was established with a gift of $2 million from the
Save-the-Redwoods League. The centerpiece of this 4,412-acre preserve is Purisima Creek Canyon, with its
towering redwoods, rushing creek, and understory of ferns, berries, and wildflowers. Coastal scrub and
hardwood forests of tanoak, madrone, and Douglas fir border the cool moist canyon. Magnificent views of the
coast and Half Moon Bay are visible from the northern part of the preserve.
Twenty-one miles of developed trails and historical logging roads provide opportunities for easy walks or long, strenuous hikes or rides. Remember to carry water on your hike, since the trails out of the canyon climb up to 1,600 feet and can be quite strenuous!
Level: 3.5 Miles: 9 Elevation: 1100 ft Host: Philip S.
Directions: From San Jose: Take Hwy 280 North to Hwy 92 toward Half Moon Bay Then take Hwy 1 south approximately 4.3 miles. Turn left on Verde Road. After turning on to Verde Road and traveling 1/4-mile, continue straight to remain on what becomes Purisima Creek Road. Travel about 3.7 miles to the preserve parking lot.
Drive Time 65 Minutes - Parking Free - Dogs not allowed
Restrooms just in side the gate
For access to the Purisima Creek Trail, there is an 11-car parking area at the trailhead
6.5 miles south of Highway 92.
No Dogs Allowed
Dress appropriately, layers are suggested
Bring plenty of water