Discover the Serenity of Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve
Immerse yourself in nature's beauty at Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve, a serene escape in Redwood City, California, perfect for hiking and wildlife watching.
A brief summary to Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve
- Redwood City, California, 94062, US
- +1650-691-1200
- Visit website
- Monday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-5 pm
Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Redwood City, California. This expansive natural preserve spans over 366 acres, offering a sanctuary for a variety of wildlife and a perfect escape for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers alike. The preserve features several miles of well-marked trails that meander through beautiful landscapes, providing visitors with stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. As you hike through the winding paths, keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer, bobcats, and a myriad of bird species that call this area home. One of the highlights of Pulgas Ridge is its diverse flora, with a mix of coastal scrub, oak woodlands, and meadows filled with seasonal wildflowers. The preserve is particularly popular during spring when the wildflowers bloom in a vibrant display of colors. This scenic beauty, combined with the tranquility of the area, makes it an ideal spot for photography, picnicking, or simply unwinding in nature. The preserve is open year-round, and visitors are encouraged to take advantage of the various hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. Whether you are looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, Pulgas Ridge offers something for everyone. Additionally, the well-maintained facilities and informative signage throughout the area enhance the visitor experience, making it easy to navigate and learn about the local ecosystem. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking views and the diverse wildlife that thrive in this serene setting.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best wildlife sightings and cooler hiking conditions.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike for several hours.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes to navigate the trails comfortably.
- Check the weather before your visit to ensure a pleasant hiking experience.
- Stay on marked trails to protect the natural habitat and for your safety.
Getting There
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Public Bus
Start at Menlo Park Caltrain Station. Board the Caltrain northbound towards San Francisco. Travel for one stop and get off at Redwood City Station. From Redwood City Station, exit and locate the SamTrans bus stop across the street. Take SamTrans Bus Route 274 towards 'Redwood City - Woodside Rd & Farm Hill Blvd'. Ride for about 15 minutes and get off at the stop 'Farm Hill Blvd & Edgewood Rd'. From there, walk east on Edgewood Rd for approximately 0.5 miles until you reach the entrance to Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve.
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Bicycle
Begin your journey at the Menlo Park City Hall. Head north on Middlefield Rd towards Ravenswood Ave. Continue on Middlefield Rd through downtown Menlo Park until you reach the intersection with Woodside Rd. Turn right onto Woodside Rd and follow it as it becomes Farm Hill Blvd. After about 2 miles, turn left onto Edgewood Rd. Continue on Edgewood Rd, and the entrance to Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve will be on your left, about 1 mile ahead.
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Walking
If you are starting from the Menlo Park downtown area, walk towards Santa Cruz Ave, heading towards El Camino Real. Cross El Camino Real and continue north along the sidewalk. You will eventually reach the intersection with Woodside Rd. Cross to the other side and continue walking along Woodside Rd until you reach the intersection with Farm Hill Blvd. Turn left onto Farm Hill Blvd and walk straight until you reach Edgewood Rd. Turn left on Edgewood Rd, and the entrance to Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve will be approximately 1 mile ahead on your left.