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Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve: A Coastal Redwood Sanctuary

Discover towering redwoods, lush canyons, and stunning coastal vistas at this tranquil Half Moon Bay preserve. Hike, bike, and explore!

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Explore the serene Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve near Half Moon Bay, California, with its towering second-growth redwood forests, lush canyons, and panoramic coastal views. Established by the Save the Redwoods League, this 5,412-acre preserve offers over 21 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, providing a tranquil escape into nature.

A brief summary to Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve

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

Local tips

  • Parking is limited, especially on weekends; arrive early or carpool.
  • Bring layers, as weather conditions can change quickly.
  • Stay on marked trails to avoid poison oak.
  • Check the official website for trail closures before visiting.
  • Bring water, as there are limited water sources.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Highway 1 in Half Moon Bay, travel south for approximately 4.3 miles. Turn left onto Verde Road, then continue straight onto Purisima Creek Road (Verde Road splits to the right). Travel about 3.7 miles on Purisima Creek Road to reach the preserve. Parking is free but extremely limited, especially at the Higgins Canyon Road entrance. Be aware that 'No Parking' areas are strictly enforced. Consider alternate parking at the Skyline Boulevard entrances, though these also fill up quickly on weekends. There is no fee for parking.

  • Public Transport

    Take SamTrans bus 294 to Half Moon Bay. From there, the preserve is several miles away, requiring a taxi or ride-sharing service to complete the journey. Expect to pay around $20-$30 for a ride-share from Half Moon Bay to the Purisima Creek Road trailhead. Be mindful of limited cell service at the preserve when arranging your return trip. SamTrans bus fare is approximately $1-$5.

Unlock the Best of Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve

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Discover more about Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve

Nestled on the western slopes of the Santa Cruz Mountains and overlooking Half Moon Bay, Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. This expansive 5,412-acre preserve invites visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility of a redwood forest. The heart of the preserve is Purisima Creek Canyon, known for its towering second-growth redwoods, rushing creek, and understory of ferns, berries, and wildflowers. The preserve was established with a $2 million gift from the Save the Redwoods League. Magnificent views of the coast and Half Moon Bay are visible from the northern part of the preserve. The preserve features over 21 miles of trails for hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding. The popular Redwood Trail is wheelchair accessible. Other trails include Purisima Creek Trail, Grabtown Gulch Trail, and Harkins Ridge Trail. Most trees at Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve are about 100 years old. They make up what is called a second-growth forest. The original redwood forest was logged in the late 1800s - 1900s. The large stumps along the Purisima Creek Trail are evidence of these trees. The first European land exploration of Alta California, the Spanish Portolà expedition, passed through the area on its way north, camping near the creek on October 27, 1769.

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