Woodside, California
With its stunning natural beauty and wide range of activities, Woodside, California is a great destination for those looking to explore the outdoors. Hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, and more can be enjoyed in the area's many parks and trails, such as the Purisima Creek Trail, the Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail, and the Redwood Gulch Trail. For those looking to uncover the area's history, there are several historic sites including the Filoli Estate, the Woodside Store, and the Woodside Glens. Additionally, visitors can tour the area's wineries and breweries, such as the Woodside Vineyards and the Skyline Ridge Winery. With so much to explore, Woodside, California is a true outdoor paradise.
Top Spots in and near Woodside
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San Mateo County, California
Sawyer Camp Trail
5.011.61 mi / 1152 ft gainThe Sawyer Camp Trail is a popular paved trail that stretches alongside the Crystal Springs Reservoir all the way to Hillcrest Blvd. The sixth mile crosses over the San Andreas Dam with nice views of San Andreas Lake. There are markers every half mile which makes timing and tracking your run eas...Read more -
La Honda, California
Brook Trail Loop
7.63 mi / 1457 ft gainThe Brook Trail Loop is a beautiful hike, starting off in Sam McDonald County Park and later entering into Pescadero Creek County Park. This adventure can be done in any season, with the trails almost entirely shaded for even the hottest summer days. Starting off from the Heritage Grove trailhea...Read more -
Cowell Ranch Beach Access, California
Cowell Ranch Beach
5.01.14 mi / 39 ft gainHike half a mile to this beautiful, secluded beach. There are high cliffs with a steep staircase down to the beach. The beach has wonderful rock formations on one side. It is a great place to watch the sunset or bring a picnic. A great place for a beach day if you are looking for something le...Read more -
Half Moon Bay, California
Cowell-Purisima Coastal Trail
4.56.8 mi / 528 ft gainThis trail begins at the Cowell State Beach parking lot and is only open on the weekends. From the lot, take the short Cowell Ranch Access trail to a scenic overlook. There are steps down to the secluded pocket beach just above the main trail. The trail playfully meanders along the cliffside with...Read more -
Half Moon Bay, California
Hike the Cowell-Purisma Trail
5.07 mi / 400 ft gainThis is a popular trail that has beach access to Cowell Ranch Beach. Along the trail, there is a steep staircase that goes down to the beach. The trail also features fields, a bridge, and beautiful views of California's rugged coastline. This trail is paved in some parts, and can also be biked...Read more -
Half Moon Bay, California
Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail
4.65.51 mi / 220 ft gainStart at the visitor center along Kelly Avenue. Take note that the day parking fee is $10 in 2024 for each vehicle. You will then be able to enjoy both the Coastside Trail and Francis Beach (plus other beaches) with access to the amenities such as coin-operated showers and a semi-private beach. ...Read more -
Half Moon Bay, CaliforniaCamp at Francis Beach Campground
4.0If you love to log as much water time as possible, this little gem is the campsite for you. Half Moon Bay State Beach is actually four smaller beaches, with a total of two miles of sandy shore, but you'll be camping right at Kelly Ave., one of Half Moon Bay's most consistent surf spots. Keep in m...Read more -
Loma Mar, California
Camp Under the Redwoods at Memorial Park
With old growth redwoods and a creek swimming area, Memorial Park is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the Bay Area. Memorial Park is only a few miles east of the town of Pescadero. To get here, you can either approach from Highway 1 and drive up Pescadero Creek Road or take Highway ...Read more -
Loma Mar, California
Bike Pescadero Creek County Park
5.012.5 mi / 1350 ft gainPescadero Creek County Park and the connected Sam McDonald and Memorial Park are located deep in the Santa Cruz Mountains holding a vast network of secluded trails. From biking to backpacking, this area is a perfect place for a day or weekend adventure. This area also has the added bonus having r...Read more -
Half Moon Bay, California
Southern Beaches at San Gregorio State Beach
4.01.48 mi / 16 ft gainNot a trail per se, but approximately 3 miles (down and back) of beautiful beach to walk down. Lots of interesting caves, wild animals, and rock formations to discover. This is a popular location for sea kayakers. San Gregorio State Beach was originally founded to protect the estuary at the back ...Read more -
La Honda, California
Peters Creek and Long Ridge
4.05.5 mi / 1007 ft gainFrom the parking lot, take the connector trail towards the Peters Creek Trail for 0.4 miles. As you descend into a small valley, notice the sound of running water that appears. When you reach the first trail intersection, turn left on the Peters Creek trail. This will give you your first encounte...Read more -
Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve, California
Deer Hollow Farm Trail
4.02.46 mi / 312 ft gainRancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve has many beginner to intermediate hiking trails. Deer Hollow Farm Trail Loop is a hiking trail for beginners, families, or anyone wanting to go on a short hike with nice views of the bay. The trail passes by a farm and deer can often be seen wandering arou...Read more -
Cupertino, CaliforniaBlack Mountain via PG&E, Quarry and Black Mountain Trail
3.011.72 mi / 3901 ft gainBlack Mountain via PG&E, Quarry and Black Mountain Trail is an out-and-back trail where you may see wildflowers located near Cupertino, California.Read more -
La Honda, California
Portola Redwoods State Park Loop
4.88.21 mi / 1924.54 ft gainTake in the best of Portola Redwoods State Park: towering redwoods, a waterfall, wildflowers, and a mix of narrow singletrack and wide old logging roads. This loop comes in around 8 miles, with a shorter 5-mile option if you’re looking for something more mellow. Redwood hikes are always a trea...Read more -
Burlingame, CaliforniaBayside Park to Robert E Woolley State Park Loop
4.52.06 mi / 20 ft gainBayside Park to Robert E Woolley State Park Loop is a loop trail that takes you past scenic surroundings located near Burlingame, California.Read more -
Burlingame, California
Mills Canyon Nature Area Trail Loop
4.01.45 mi / 331 ft gainNestled within Burlingame, California, the Mills Canyon Nature Area Trail Loop offers hikers a serene escape into nature. This approximately 1.5-mile loop meanders through diverse landscapes, including mixed woodlands and grasslands, providing opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying native ...Read more
