The best walks and hikes in Thornewood Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
4.7
(206)
2,995
hikers
128
hikes
Hiking in Thornewood Open Space Preserve (Closed Area) offers trails through forested hills within the Santa Cruz Mountains. The 167-acre preserve features diverse woodlands, including second-growth redwood, Douglas fir, oak, and madrone trees. Schilling Lake is a central natural feature, surrounded by redwoods and providing wildlife habitat. The terrain includes shaded forest paths and rolling hills, with some trails offering brief views of the southern San Francisco Bay.
Best hiking trails in Thornewood Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
- The mostβ¦
Last updated: July 1, 2026
5.0
(2)
13
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
19.7km
05:56
790m
430m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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19.2km
05:25
340m
520m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.5
(2)
21
hikers
2.56km
00:42
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
38
hikers
4.99km
01:32
190m
190m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This little 167-acre preserve is perfectly situated for a quick getaway; you might also see equestrians here. Dogs are allowed on leash.
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This is where La Ronda Road meets Skyline Boulevard. After the climb, itβs the perfect place to recharge and grab something to eat at one of the nearby restaurants or grocery stores. Alise's Restaurant is a popular one.
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Wunderlich Park, spanning 942 acres, is picturesque, with a beautiful mix of chaparral and redwood forest, expansive meadows, and striking oak and madrone trees. There is plenty of open space featuring a network of lovely hiking trails. Donated to the county by Martin Wunderlich, this area includes what was once the Folger family ranch. The stable and surrounding buildings have been meticulously restored, serving as a cherished historic landmark for the community. Dogs are not allowed in the park, so you'll need to leave your pup at home.
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This is a well-maintained trail, adorned with tall trees, small creek crossings, and enjoyable single-track paths around fallen trees. With its mostly shaded surroundings, comfortable weather, and limited crowds, it's a picturesque and serene hike that leaves you wishing it were longer.
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At an estimated age of 1860 years and reaching a towering height of over 200 feet at its tallest point and with a trunk diameter of 14 feet, this remarkable tree stands as one of the few remaining first-growth trees in the region. Witnessing its grandeur firsthand is essential to fully comprehend its immense magnitude.
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Just beautiful nature
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Thornewood Open Space Preserve?
Thornewood Open Space Preserve offers a wide variety of hiking options, with over 130 routes available. These range from easy strolls to more challenging trails, ensuring there's something for every hiker.
Are there any easy trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, the preserve has many easy trails. For instance, the Schilling Lake Trail is an easy 1.6-mile path leading through shaded forest to the tranquil Schilling Lake. Another great option is the Schilling Lake β Thornwoode Open Space Preserve loop, an easy 2.3-mile route that winds through redwood forests.
Can I bring my dog to Thornewood Open Space Preserve?
Yes, Thornewood Open Space Preserve is dog-friendly. Dogs are permitted on leash, allowing you to enjoy the trails with your canine companion.
What kind of terrain and elevation can I expect on the trails?
The preserve features diverse terrain, including shaded forest paths, redwood groves, and rolling hills. While many trails are easy with moderate elevation changes, there are also more challenging routes with significant elevation gain, such as the Alambique, Skyline, Meadow and Bear Gulch Trail Loop, which involves substantial ascents.
Are there any loop trails in Thornewood Open Space Preserve?
Yes, several loop trails are available. Popular choices include the Schilling Lake β Thornwoode Open Space Preserve loop and the Thornwoode Open Space Preserve β Schilling Lake loop, both offering a comprehensive experience of the preserve's woodlands and natural features.
What natural attractions or landmarks can I see while hiking?
A central feature is Schilling Lake, a small body of water surrounded by redwoods, offering tranquil views and protected wildlife habitat. The trails also wind through diverse woodlands of redwood, Douglas fir, oak, and madrone trees. From certain points along the Schilling Lake Trail, you can catch brief views of the southern San Francisco Bay, Palo Alto, and the Diablo Range.
What wildlife might I encounter in the preserve?
Thornewood Open Space Preserve supports a variety of wildlife. Hikers have reported sightings of quail, jays, and hummingbirds, and deer prints are commonly seen. The evolving ecosystem around Schilling Lake also provides habitat for sensitive wildlife species.
What is the best time of year to visit Thornewood Open Space Preserve?
The preserve offers beauty throughout the year. While summer brings lingering wildflowers, autumn is particularly scenic with the foliage shows of buckeyes, poison oak, black oaks, and big-leaf maples. The shaded forest paths provide a pleasant experience even on warmer days.
Is there parking available at Thornewood Open Space Preserve?
Yes, parking information is typically available at the preserve's entrance points. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival for specific parking regulations and availability.
What do other hikers enjoy most about Thornewood Open Space Preserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 250 reviews. Reviewers often praise the tranquil atmosphere, the beauty of Schilling Lake, and the diverse forested paths that offer a peaceful escape into nature.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced trekkers?
Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous experience, routes like the Alambique, Skyline, Meadow and Bear Gulch Trail Loop offer significant elevation gain and longer distances, providing a good challenge for experienced hikers.
How long does it typically take to complete a hike in the preserve?
Hike durations vary significantly depending on the trail's length and your pace. Easy trails like the Schilling Lake Trail can be completed in about 40 minutes, while longer loops or more difficult routes may take several hours.
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