PURISIMA CREEK REDWOODS OPEN SPACE PRESERVE

PURISIMA CREEK REDWOODS OPEN SPACE PRESERVE

Date:  Saturday, June 6, 2026

Leader: Carlos Morillo | cmorillo@gmail.com | 908.902.0914

Hike Rating:  Level-4

Hike Mileage: 10.5 miles

Elevation Gain: 2100'

Description:  Join us for a breathtaking redwood adventure at Purisima Creek!Escape the city and immerse yourself in one of the Bay Area’s most stunning coastal redwood forests. Our journey begins at the North Ridge trailhead, high above the forest canopy. We’ll descend along the Chris MacIntosh Trail, where sweeping ocean views give way to towering redwoods and the soothing sounds of Purisima Creek below.  From there, we’ll connect to the Whittemore Gulch Trail, a gentle and endlessly scenic path that winds through ferns, mossy trunks, and shafts of golden light filtering through old-growth redwoods. We’ll wander beside the creek on the Purisima Creek Trail, where the forest feels timeless and peaceful, before climbing up the Craig Britton Trail, a steady ascent that rewards you with panoramic views back toward the Pacific and the rolling green ridges of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Our loop finishes back at North Ridge, where we’ll celebrate a full day of fresh air, fitness, and unforgettable scenery!This hike has it all — ocean views, lush forest, and the Bay Area’s best springtime energy. Lace up your boots, bring a snack, and come recharge in nature’s cathedral.  

Bring/Wear:  Plenty of water, good hiking shoes, lunch, snacks, hiking poles and layers.

Rain Policy: Contact hikeleader if weather is questionable.

Dogs:  Are not permitted. 

TRAILHEAD MEETING LOCATION: From San Francisco or the East Bay, find your way to 280 South. Take exit 34 for CA-35 W toward CA-92 W/Half Moon Bay/Bunker Hill Dr. Turn left at the end of the exit ramp. Turn right at the traffic light, the road then is both CA highway 35 and CA highway 92. When highways 35 and 92 split, turn left to stay on highway 35. Go 4.4 miles and the parking area will be on the right.  Google Maps Link

Trailhead Meeting Time:  10:00 AM  (don't miss the hike, arrive early).

If you are not a member you can:  1) Become a member by clicking on the [Join] menu above and then register for the hike or 2) Contact me so that I know that you would like to be part of the hike.

Interested in carpooling?  If so, here are the options...

• San Francisco Meeting Location:  Whole Foods (map) @ 2001 Market Street.  Meet on the Dolores Street side.  There's parking on the street or below the building.

Meeting Time:  9:20 AM  (don't miss your ride, arrive early).

• San Francisco (alternate) Meeting Location:  Balboa Park BART station (map).  Meet on the south side of Geneva Avenue.  Note: This is a special pick up if you would like to ride with Carlos (2 people max).  This must be arranged ahead of time.

Meeting Time:  9:30 AM  (don't miss your ride, arrive early).

• East Bay Meeting Location:  Rockridge BART station (map).  Meet at the bottom of the escalators.  There's free and ample parking.

Meeting Time:  9:10 AM  (don't miss your ride, arrive early).

While there are no guarantees, to better facilitate carpool arrangements for yourself and others, please register and indicate your desire for a ride (or offer to drive) by Thursday, 3:00 PM.  If you have not been contacted by Noon the next day, please reach out to the hikeleader.

Riders wishing to pay with Venmo, PayPal or something other than cash, please contact the hikeleader prior to arriving at the trailhead to see if this is an option (see Carpool Fees below).  Do not show up at a meeting location if you have not been confirmed a rider (or driver) ahead of time. 

Total Driving Distance (round trip):

  61 miles (San Francisco)

  80 miles (East Bay)

Carpool Fees (per passenger):

  $9 (San Francisco)

  $12 (East Bay)*

  *Includes bridge toll.