Background

Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve: A Serpentine Grassland Oasis

Discover stunning wildflowers, rare species, and panoramic views at this preserved natural oasis in Redwood City, California.

4.7

Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve, a 467-acre sanctuary in Redwood City, California, is renowned for its vibrant spring wildflower displays and diverse native plant communities. Once slated for development, including a golf course, it was preserved thanks to community efforts and is now a haven for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and rare species.

A brief summary to Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve

  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit in the spring (March-June) to witness the spectacular wildflower displays.
  • Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for uneven terrain on the trails.
  • Bring water, especially on warm days, as there are limited water sources within the park.
  • Check the park's website for guided tours and events, especially during wildflower season.
  • Be aware of wildlife, including snakes and other reptiles, and avoid contact.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve is easily accessible from I-280. Take the Edgewood Road exit (Exit 29) and head east towards the bay. Continue on Edgewood Road for about 1 mile, then turn right onto Old Stage Coach Road. The main entrance and parking lot will be on your right. Parking is free, but limited, especially on weekends. Consider arriving early or carpooling. Overflow street parking is available.

  • Public Transport

    While there isn't a direct public transportation route to the park entrance, you can take SamTrans bus lines to nearby stops on Edgewood Road and then walk or bike to the park. Check SamTrans schedules for the most up-to-date information. From the bus stop, follow Edgewood Road to Old Stage Coach Road and walk to the park entrance. A one-way bus fare is typically around $2.25.

  • Walking

    If you are staying in the nearby residential areas, you can easily walk to Edgewood Park. From Edgewood Road, turn onto Old Stage Coach Road and proceed to the park entrance. Be mindful of traffic as you walk along the road. The walk from Edgewood Road is relatively short and provides a pleasant introduction to the park's natural surroundings.

Unlock the Best of Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve

Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve offers a unique glimpse into California's natural beauty, characterized by its serpentine grasslands, oak woodlands, and diverse habitats. The park's history stretches back millions of years, with its underlying geology shaped by the convergence of tectonic plates, resulting in unique serpentine soil. This soil, low in nutrients but rich in heavy metals, fosters a remarkable array of plant species uniquely adapted to this harsh environment. Throughout the mid-1800s, ranching and logging activities altered Edgewood's landscape. Non-native grasses were introduced for cattle grazing, and roads like Edgewood Road were used to transport redwood timber. However, starting in 1967, various development projects were proposed, including a college and a golf course. Conservation-minded citizens recognized Edgewood's extraordinary biodiversity and formed a coalition to protect it from future development. In 1993, the County Board of Supervisors unanimously declared Edgewood County Park a Natural Preserve. Today, Edgewood boasts over 500 distinct plant species, including several rare and endangered ones like the San Mateo thornmint. The park is also home to the threatened Bay checkerspot butterfly, whose larvae depend on plants that grow only on serpentine soils. Visitors can explore over 10 miles of trails that wind through woodlands, grasslands, and chaparral, offering stunning views of the San Francisco Bay and the Santa Cruz Mountains. The Bill and Jean Lane Education Center provides interactive displays about the park's habitats.

Popular Experiences near Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve

Popular Hotels near Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve

Select Currency