Discover the Natural Beauty of El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve
Explore El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve, a stunning nature preserve in California offering breathtaking trails, diverse wildlife, and serene landscapes.
El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve is a captivating destination for tourists seeking an authentic experience in California's natural beauty. Spanning over 2,000 acres of lush forests, rolling hills, and diverse ecosystems, this nature preserve offers a serene environment for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the great outdoors. Visitors can explore a network of well-maintained trails that wind through majestic redwoods and oak woodlands, providing a perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating hike. The trails are suitable for all skill levels, making it a family-friendly location where nature lovers can connect with the stunning landscape. As you wander through the preserve, keep an eye out for the rich wildlife that inhabits the area, including various bird species, deer, and other small mammals. The diverse habitats within the preserve create opportunities for wildlife observation and photography, making it a treasured spot for nature enthusiasts. Don't forget to visit notable features such as the ancient sandstone formations, which provide a unique geological perspective and a great photo opportunity. For those looking to delve deeper into the beauty of the area, the preserve also offers educational programs and guided hikes led by knowledgeable rangers. These experiences help visitors appreciate the ecological significance of the preserve and its role in conservation efforts. Whether you’re seeking adventure or a peaceful retreat, El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve is a must-visit destination that showcases the natural splendor of California.
Local tips
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities within the preserve.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots to navigate the varied terrain comfortably.
- Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit and dress in layers, as temperatures can vary.
- Take a map of the trails to ensure you explore all the scenic routes available.
A brief summary to El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve
- CA-35 &, Skyline Blvd, Redwood City, CA, 94062, US
- +1650-691-1200
- Visit website
Getting There
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Bicycle
Start at the Menlo Park City Hall located at 701 Laurel St, Menlo Park, CA 94025. Head south on Laurel St towards Oak Grove Ave. Turn right onto Oak Grove Ave, then left onto Santa Cruz Ave. Continue on Santa Cruz Ave until you reach the intersection with Alpine Rd. Turn right onto Alpine Rd and follow it as it becomes Portola Rd. After about 2.5 miles, you will reach the entrance to El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve on your left at CA-35 and Skyline Blvd.
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Public Transit + Walk
From the Menlo Park Caltrain Station, take the Caltrain north towards San Francisco. Get off at the Redwood City Station. From there, you can catch the SamTrans bus route 274 towards Atherton. Get off at the stop at Woodside Rd & Cañada Rd. Walk north on Cañada Rd for about 1.5 miles, then turn left onto Alpine Rd, which will lead you to the entrance of El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve.
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Walk
If you are staying near downtown Menlo Park, you can walk to the entrance. Head west on Santa Cruz Ave, then take a left onto Middlefield Rd. Continue on Middlefield Rd until you reach the intersection with Woodside Rd. Turn right onto Woodside Rd and then left onto Cañada Rd. Follow Cañada Rd until it turns into Alpine Rd, then continue walking until you reach the entrance of El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve.
Attractions Nearby to El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve
- Teague Hill Open Space Preserve
- Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve
- Wunderlich County Park
- Redwood Picnic Area, Huddart Park
- Woodside Store Park
- Huddart Park
- Thornewood Open Space Preserve
- Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve
- La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve
- Filoli Historic House & Garden
- Windy Hill Open Space Preserve
- Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve
- Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve
- Pulgas Water Temple
- Sharon Park
Landmarks nearby to El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve
- Methuselah Tree (Sequoia sempervirens)
- Allen Peak
- Horse Statue
- Ralph D. Percival Memorial Vista Point
- The Couple Bench
- War Memorial
- Brookdale Redwood City
- The Historic Union Cemetery
- Spill the Tea
- Papa Johns Pizza
- Skylawn Funeral Home, Memorial Park & Crematory
- Redwood Tattoo Co
- Ike's Lair of Redwood City
- I Dumpling
- Sequoia Station