Thornewood Open Space Preserve: A Tranquil Retreat
Discover serene trails and redwood forests at Thornewood Open Space Preserve, a historic estate turned natural sanctuary in Woodside, CA.
Escape to Thornewood Open Space Preserve, a 167-acre haven in the Santa Cruz Mountains near Woodside, CA. Originally part of a private estate, it now offers easy hiking and horseback riding trails amidst redwood forests and the serene Schilling Lake.
A brief summary to Thornewood Open Space Preserve
- 707 La Honda Rd, Woodside, California, 94062, US
- +1650-691-1200
- Visit website
- 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
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, as the parking lot is small and fills up quickly.
- Bring water, as there are no water facilities within the preserve.
- Stay on marked trails to avoid poison oak and protect the delicate ecosystem.
- Dogs are allowed on leash, making it a great place to bring your furry friend.
- Download a trail map before you go, as paper maps may not be available at the preserve.
Getting There
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Driving
From Highway 280, take the CA-84 W/Woodside Road exit and head west. Continue on CA-84/Woodside Road until you see the brick gates marking the entrance to Thornewood Preserve on your left. Turn onto the preserve road and follow it to the parking lot. Parking is free, but limited to a small lot with only 5 regular slots, 1 ADA slot, and 3 informal parallel parking spots. An alternative entrance with 8-10 roadside spaces is located off Old La Honda Road. Be aware that parking fills up quickly on weekends.
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Public Transport
While direct public transportation to Thornewood Open Space Preserve is limited, you can take SamTrans bus routes to nearby locations in Woodside and then use a ride-sharing service or taxi to reach the preserve. Check SamTrans schedules and plan your route accordingly. Keep in mind that ride-sharing costs from Woodside to Thornewood can range from $15-$25, depending on demand and availability.
Discover more about Thornewood Open Space Preserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Horse Statue
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Allen Peak
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Methuselah Tree (Sequoia sempervirens)
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The Couple Bench
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Vista Hill
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MacFarland House
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Lou Henry Hoover House
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Jack W. Lyle Park
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Frenchman's Tower
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Auguste Rodin - The Burghers of Calais
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Tootsie's at the Cantor Arts Center
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Escondido Turnaround
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Stone River by Andy Goldsworthy
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Menlo Park Design District
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Brookdale Redwood City
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Unmissable attractions to see
Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve
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Wunderlich County Park
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Teague Hill Open Space Preserve
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Woodside Store Park
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Windy Hill Open Space Preserve
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Redwood Picnic Area, Huddart Park
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Sharon Park
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El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve
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Huddart Park
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Stanford Hills Park
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La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve
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Stanford Dish
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Pearson-Arastradero Preserve
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Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden
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Memorial Church
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Essential places to dine
Parkside Grille
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Madera
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El Cerrito
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Dutch Goose
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Flea Street
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Redwood Grill
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CORNER TABLE
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The Mountain House
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Cafe Wisteria
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Canyon Inn
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Camper
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Vina Enoteca
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Tootsie's At The Stanford Barn
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Galata Bistro Mediterranean Grill
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Ristorante Carpaccio
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shady Lane
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Sharon Heights Shopping Center
6.0 km
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Menloville Country Store
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Rehreh threads & goods
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Joy Imai Pottery Studio
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La Layette Boutique
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Alys Grace
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Draeger's Market
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Anatomie Menlo Park
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Luminaire Menlo Park
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Stanford Barn Shopping Center
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Gitane
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Nordstrom
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Pool Garden Terrace at Rosewood Sand Hill
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The Library & Bar
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Saddle Room Bar
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Atherton Club San Luis
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MacArthur Park Restaurant and Bar
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Gemelos Cantina & Sports Bar
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Mazzocco's Club
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The Patio @ Rudy's
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Scotty's Bar & Grill
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The Rose & Crown
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The Wine Room
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Hidden Tap And Barrel Palo Alto
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SliderBar Restaurant
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