The best walks and hikes in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)

Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 50 distinct trails to explore. These range from easy strolls to more challenging routes, ensuring options for all skill levels.

The preserve is known for its diverse landscapes, including lush redwood groves (both second-growth and ancient old-growth trees), extensive Douglas fir forests, and scenic oak woodlands. Perennial creeks meander through the area, adding to its natural beauty. Higher elevations, such as Madrone Knoll, offer expansive views of the Santa Cruz Mountains.

Yes, Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve has many trails suitable for families and beginners. There are 30 easy routes, including the 0.2-mile, ADA-compliant Upper Lake Loop Trail near the parking area, which is perfect for all ages and abilities. For a slightly longer easy option, consider the Old Growth Redwood Trees loop from Lexington Reservoir County Park (closed area), which is 2.5 miles long.

Absolutely. Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve is home to magnificent old-growth redwood trees, some estimated to be 600 to 800 years old and over 200 feet tall. You can find these towering giants along trails like the Pete Siemens Trail. For a dedicated experience, the Bear Creek Summit through Old Growth Redwood Trees Preserve route specifically highlights these ancient trees.

Rules regarding dogs can vary within open space preserves. It's always best to check the specific regulations for Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve directly with the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District before bringing your dog, as policies can change or differ by trail.

Yes, for those seeking scenic vistas, the higher elevations within the preserve offer rewarding views. The Madrone Knoll Trail climbs to Madrone Knoll, the highest point at 2,400 feet. While the knoll itself is treed, side paths often provide expansive views of the Santa Cruz Mountains' Sierra Azul Range.

The preserve is a haven for diverse wildlife. Hikers might spot mountain lions, bobcats, western pond turtles, and various bat species. Birdwatchers can look for belted kingfishers and northern red-shafted flickers, while Santa Cruz black salamanders and California giant salamanders can also be found in the area.

Yes, the preserve offers several circular routes. For an easy loop, consider the Old Growth Redwood Trees loop from Redwood Estates, which is 3.4 miles long. More challenging loops are also available, such as a 7.4-mile option with about 1650 feet of climbing, which typically takes 2.5 to 4 hours.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 100 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the towering redwood groves, the well-maintained and spacious trails, and the peaceful, enchanting environment created by the dense forests.

Yes, parking is available at the preserve. The main parking lot is located near the Alma Cultural Landscape, which also serves as the starting point for several trails, including the Upper Lake Loop Trail.

The preserve has a rich history. Near the main parking lot, the Alma Cultural Landscape marks the site of former logging operations, historic estates, and Alma College. Interpretive signage helps visitors understand this historical context as they explore the area.

For those seeking a greater challenge, the preserve offers 21 moderate and 3 difficult routes. A notable moderate option is the Bear Creek Summit through Old Growth Redwood Trees Preserve, which is 7.5 miles long with over 1400 feet of elevation gain. Longer loops, such as a 5.5-mile hike with 1100 feet of elevation gain, are also available.