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Laurelwood Park: A Natural Escape in San Mateo

Escape to nature in San Mateo's Laurelwood Park: hiking, playgrounds, picnic spots, and stunning views await!

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Laurelwood Park, nestled at the base of Sugarloaf Mountain in San Mateo, is a 225-acre verdant oasis offering a tranquil escape from the city. Opened in 1978, the park features hiking trails, a playground, picnic areas, and expansive grassy fields, making it a beloved destination for families and nature enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Laurelwood Park

  • Monday 6 am-10 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-10 pm
  • Friday 6 am-10 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-10 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-10 pm

Local tips

  • Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy a relaxing meal at one of the park's shaded picnic areas.
  • Wear sturdy shoes for hiking the trails to Sugarloaf Mountain, as some paths can be steep.
  • Visit in early spring to see the park's grasslands come alive with colorful wildflowers.
  • Check the City of San Mateo's website for upcoming community events and activities at the park.
  • Bring your dog for a walk, but remember to keep them on a leash and clean up after them.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the Hillsdale Caltrain Station, take the Commute.org San Mateo-Campus Drive shuttle towards Laurelwood Shopping Center. From the Laurelwood Shopping Center, walk along West Hillsdale Blvd, turn right onto Glendora Dr, then turn left onto Shasta Dr. Follow Shasta Dr to the end, where you'll find the park entrance. The shuttle is free and operates during commute hours on weekdays. Alternatively, SamTrans Route 292 runs along Delaware Street, a 15-20 minute walk from the park.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from downtown San Mateo to Laurelwood Park will cost approximately $15-20, depending on traffic and demand. Use the park's address, 3471 Glendora Dr, San Mateo, CA 94403, as your destination.

  • Walking

    From the Laurelwood Shopping Center, head southeast on West Hillsdale Blvd, turn right onto Glendora Dr, then turn left onto Shasta Dr. Follow Shasta Dr to the end, where you'll find the park entrance. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes.

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Discover more about Laurelwood Park

Laurelwood Park, a cherished landmark in San Mateo, provides a diverse range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. Its history is rooted in community preservation efforts from the early 1970s, when local groups rallied to prevent the area from being developed into housing and office spaces. Thanks to their dedication, approximately 40% of what is now Laurelwood Park was saved, ensuring that future generations could enjoy its natural beauty. The park's network of hiking trails wind through the surrounding hillsides, offering varying levels of difficulty. The trails leading to Sugarloaf Mountain provide stunning panoramic views of the San Francisco Peninsula. For a leisurely walk, the Salson Trail, accessible from the south edge of the playground, offers a broad, shaded path. For a more challenging route, the Amphitheater Trail ascends from the Tenderfoot Trail to the mountain's summit. Families with children can enjoy a well-equipped playground with modern equipment and a smaller, separate play area. Adjacent to the playground are shaded picnic areas, ideal for gatherings and outdoor meals. The park's expansive grassy fields are perfect for kite flying, frisbee, or a casual game of soccer. Laurelwood Park is also a popular spot for dog owners.

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