Pulgas Water Temple: A Testament to Engineering and Art
Discover the Pulgas Water Temple, a stunning monument to San Francisco's water system, blending Greco-Roman architecture with serene landscapes and a rich history of engineering marvel.
The Pulgas Water Temple, a monument to San Francisco's Hetch Hetchy water system, offers a serene escape with its Greco-Roman architecture. Designed by William Merchant and completed in 1938, the temple features fluted columns, Corinthian capitals, and a tranquil reflecting pool, all set against a backdrop of rolling hills. Visitors can explore the grounds, learn about the engineering marvel that brings water from the Sierra Nevada, and enjoy a peaceful picnic. While parking is limited and pedestrian access is available on weekends, the temple's beauty and historical significance make it a worthwhile destination for those seeking a blend of nature and architectural splendor. Remember to check for possible closures due to private events.
A brief summary to Pulgas Water Temple
- 56 Cañada Rd, Redwood City, California, 94062, US
- +1650-652-3209
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday to access the parking lot, as it's closed on weekends and holidays, requiring a longer walk.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy on the temple grounds, taking advantage of the serene atmosphere and scenic views.
- Combine your visit with a hike on the nearby Crystal Springs Regional Trail for stunning views of the reservoir.
- Check the SFPUC website for potential closures due to private events like weddings before planning your trip.
- Consider visiting on a Sunday when Cañada Road is closed to cars for Bicycle Sundays, making it ideal for a leisurely bike ride to the temple.
Getting There
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Driving
From Interstate 280, take the Edgewood Road exit and head west. Turn north onto Cañada Road. Continue for approximately two miles; the Pulgas Water Temple will be on your left. Note that parking is free but limited and only available on weekdays. On weekends, parking is available further south on Cañada Road, past Filoli, requiring a walk of at least half a mile. Illegally parking near the entrance can result in fines. There are no tolls on this route.
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Public Transport
From Redwood City Caltrain station, take SamTrans Route 274 towards Woodside. Get off at the intersection of Cañada Road and Edgewood Road. From there, it's approximately a 1.7-mile walk north on Cañada Road to the Pulgas Water Temple. SamTrans single ride fare is $2.50. Alternatively, from the station, a rideshare (Uber/Lyft) to the temple will cost approximately $15-25, depending on demand.
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Walking
If parking south of the Filoli entrance on a weekend, walk north along Cañada Road. The Pulgas Water Temple will be on your left, approximately half a mile from the Filoli gate. Be mindful of traffic as you walk along the road. There are no sidewalks for some stretches of the road. No costs are associated with walking.
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