| Butano
State Park |
| Features a rich
diversity of wildlife and plantlife. Attracts mushroom
photographers, newt enthusiasts, and orchid fanciers. Plant
communities include coastal grassland, alder and oak woodlands,
Douglas fir/redwood, vernal wetland, and desert-like chaparral.
|
| Sam
McDonald Park |
| 850 acres located
approximately 3 miles west of La Honda on Pescadero Road. One
half is principally a lush second-growth redwood forest, while
the remaining portion is primarily open ridge with grassy knolls
and patchy brush areas. Several miles of hiking trials, limited
number of picnic facilities, and group hike-in campsites
available. (650) 363-4021 for reservations for all youth and
horse group overnights. |
| Huddart
County Park |
| The forested slopes
and steep, cool canyons and several different plant communities
offer a varied habitat for diverse wildlife. Plant communities
include chaparral, redwood forest, evergreen forest, and
foothill woodland. Offers picnic sites, nature trail, hiking and
riding trails, and a playground. Reservations required for
sheltered picnic areas. (650) 363-4021. |
| Pescadero
Creek County Park |
| Facilities include
campgrounds; horse camp; trail camps; picnic areas; interpretive
center; hiking, jogging, horseback riding, and self-guided
nature trails; and a camp store. |
| Purisima
Creek Redwoods |
| Located on the
western slopes of the Santa Cruz Mountains overlooking Half Moon
Bay. The centerpiece of this 2,633-acre preserve is Purisima
Creek Canyon, with its towering redwoods, rushing creek, and
understory of ferns, berries, and wildflowers. 21 miles of
developed trails and historical logging roads provide
opportunities for easy walks, strenuous hikes, biking, or
horseback riding. |
| Montara
Mountain |
| Trails for hikers,
equestrians, and bicyclists vary from easy to strenuous. All are
rewarded with panoramic ocean views and abundant wildflowers in
the spring. Open 8:00 a.m. to dusk. |
| Also:
Año
Nuevo,
Sam
McDonald, McNee State Park, Portola State Park, Memorial
Park, and Heritage Grove. |
|
|
1st Traveler's Choice
