The best walks and hikes in Thornewood Open Space Preserve
4.7
(215)
3,395
hikers
133
hikes
Hiking in Thornewood Open Space Preserve takes place within a 167-acre area characterized by forested hills. The trails wind through a mix of second-growth redwood, Douglas fir, oak, and madrone woodlands. A central feature is Schilling Lake, a small body of water surrounded by redwoods, which serves as a wildlife habitat. The preserve offers occasional views of the southern San Francisco Bay.
Best hiking trails in Thornewood Open Space Preserve
- The most popular hiking route is Thornwoode Open Space Preserve…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
2
hikers
19.7km
05:56
790m
430m
Hike the difficult 12.2-mile Alambique, Skyline, Meadow and Bear Gulch Trail Loop through diverse forests and meadows in Wunderlich County P
19.2km
05:25
340m
520m
Old La Honda Road offers a unique hiking experience, primarily along a narrow, paved road that winds through a beautiful, tree-lined landscape. You'll start in the oak woodlands near Woodside…
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3.5
(2)
21
hikers
2.56km
00:42
30m
30m
The Schilling Lake Trail offers a surprisingly diverse and tranquil hiking experience packed into a short distance. You'll wander through sun-dappled oak and madrone forests, transitioning into lush, cool redwood…
5.0
(2)
13
hikers
The Thornwoode Open Space Preserve – Schilling Lake loop is a delightful, easy hike that offers a surprising variety of scenery for its length. You'll start with a few moderately…
5.0
(2)
38
hikers
4.99km
01:32
190m
190m
Step into a world of towering redwoods and lush madrone groves on the Bear Gulch, Redwood, and Madrone Trail Loop. This easy 3.1-mile (5.0 km) hike guides you through the…
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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, it’s 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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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed in Thornewood Open Space Preserve?
Yes, Thornewood is a great option for dog owners. Dogs are permitted on all trails as long as they are on a leash.
What are the parking options at the trailhead?
There is a small, limited parking area at the trailhead located at 707 La Honda Rd, Woodside. It can fill up quickly, particularly on weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
Are there any restrooms or drinking water in the preserve?
No, there are no restroom facilities or drinking water available within Thornewood Open Space Preserve. Please plan accordingly and bring your own water.
What's a good easy hike for a family or a quick walk?
For a shorter, easier outing, the Thornwoode Open Space Preserve – Schilling Lake loop from Westridge is a great choice. It's a relatively flat 2.3-mile (3.7 km) walk that gives you a good feel for the preserve's redwood and oak forests.
Are there any circular or loop trails available?
Yes, there are several loop options. A popular choice that combines the main trails is the Thornwoode Open Space Preserve – Schilling Lake loop from Woodside. This route offers a comprehensive tour of the preserve's varied landscapes over about 3.2 miles (5.1 km).
Which trails are best for seeing redwood trees?
You'll find beautiful second-growth redwoods throughout the preserve. The area around Schilling Lake is particularly scenic, with majestic redwoods surrounding the water. The Bridle Trail also descends through a lush forest of redwoods and Douglas fir.
Is Thornewood Open Space Preserve suitable for trail running?
Yes, the trails are popular with trail runners. The rolling hills and forested paths provide a good workout. For a more challenging run with significant elevation gain, consider the Skyline Trail – Great Climb to Skyline loop from Woodside, which covers about 6 miles (9.7 km).
What do other hikers enjoy most about Thornewood Open Space Preserve?
The preserve is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the serene, shaded trails, the beautiful redwood groves, and the fact that it's a dog-friendly location. The well-marked paths through diverse woodlands are a consistent highlight.
When is the best time to see wildflowers or fall colors?
Spring is the best time for wildflowers, when you can spot varieties like the fetid adder's tongue. For autumn colors, visit in the fall when the black oaks and big-leaf maples put on a colorful display.
Are there any waterfalls in the preserve?
After heavy winter rains, you may see small, seasonal cascades along Dennis Martin Creek. These are not large waterfalls but add to the beauty of the hike during the wet season.
Can I go horseback riding in Thornewood?
Yes, equestrians are welcome in the preserve. The main trails, including the Bridle Trail and Schilling Lake Trail, are open to horseback riding.
How does Thornewood compare to nearby Wunderlich Park?
Thornewood is much smaller (167 acres) and offers a more intimate hiking experience with fewer trails, making it ideal for a quick, serene escape. Wunderlich County Park is significantly larger with a more extensive trail network for longer hikes. If you're looking for a longer, more challenging route nearby, the Bear Gulch & Alambique Trail loop in Wunderlich is a popular moderate option.
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