Background

Heritage Grove: A Pocket of Redwood Majesty

Discover ancient redwoods in a serene setting. Heritage Grove: A quick escape into nature's grandeur near La Honda, California.

4.8

Heritage Grove, nestled near La Honda, California, is a small yet captivating redwood grove within Sam McDonald Park. It features old-growth redwoods, a lush understory, and a peaceful ambiance, offering a condensed version of the classic redwood experience.

A brief summary to Heritage Grove

Local tips

  • Parking at the Heritage Grove trailhead on Alpine Road is limited; consider parking at Sam McDonald County Park and hiking in.
  • The Heritage Grove Trail is for hikers only; no dogs or bikes are allowed.
  • Combine your visit with a hike to the nearby Hiker's Hut for panoramic views of the Pescadero Creek valley.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    From Highway 84, drive 6.7 miles past La Honda to Pescadero Creek Road. Turn onto Pescadero Creek Road and drive 1.1 miles to the Redwood Triangle junction with Alpine Road. For the Heritage Grove trailhead, turn left onto Alpine Road and drive 1.3 miles to the trailhead on the right. Parking is limited along the shoulder. Alternatively, turn right at the Redwood Triangle to reach Sam McDonald County Park in 0.5 miles. Park in the lot for $6. From the parking lot, the Heritage Grove Trail is across Pescadero Creek Road.

  • Walking

    From the Sam McDonald County Park parking lot, cross Pescadero Creek Road to access the Heritage Grove Trail. Follow the trail for approximately 1.6 miles to reach Heritage Grove. The trail meanders through redwood forests and along geographical contours. Be aware that the trail gains elevation as you approach the grove.

Unlock the Best of Heritage Grove

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Heritage Grove

Heritage Grove is a hidden gem located near La Honda, California, within the expansive Sam McDonald County Park. This 37-acre grove showcases some of the most spectacular old-growth redwoods in the area. Despite its small size, Heritage Grove offers a quintessential redwood experience, characterized by towering trees, a lush carpet of ferns and sorrel, and the gentle sounds of a burbling stream. The grove's history is intertwined with that of Sam McDonald Park, named after Emanuel B. (Sam) McDonald, an African American man who worked at Stanford University and purchased the surrounding land in 1919. McDonald, a grandson of slaves, was among the first African Americans to own property in the redwoods, and he dedicated his life to preserving the forest he called “lords of the forest”. Today, Heritage Grove offers a tranquil escape into nature. The Heritage Grove Trail, accessible from both the Sam McDonald parking lot and a small trailhead on Alpine Road, meanders through the grove, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of these ancient trees. The trail connects to a network of trails within Sam McDonald Park, offering opportunities for longer hikes and exploration.

Popular Experiences near Heritage Grove

Popular Hotels near Heritage Grove

Select Currency