The best family-friendly hikes and walks in La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve (Permit Area)

There are nearly 70 hiking trails suitable for families in La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve (Permit Area). Of these, 27 are rated as easy, and 35 are considered moderate, offering a wide range of options for different family abilities.

Families can explore a rich variety of landscapes, including historic ranchlands with grazing cattle, expansive coastal grasslands, and serene oak woodlands. A significant highlight is the presence of ancient redwood forests and second-growth redwoods, offering majestic scenery. Many trails also feature riparian corridors along La Honda Creek and its tributaries.

Absolutely! Families can look forward to several unique attractions. In the Upper La Honda Creek area, accessible with a permit, you can find the impressive "Big Tree", an old-growth redwood. The Sierra Morena, Gordon Mill, Timberview, and Steam Donkey Loop, for example, offers a great moderate option to explore the diverse terrain. Additionally, the historic ranchlands, often traversed by trails like the Grasshopper Loop, provide a glimpse of the preserve's history and the chance to see the historic Red Barn.

The preserve offers a rewarding experience year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and wildflowers, while fall provides pleasant temperatures and changing foliage. Summer can be warm, but many trails offer shaded sections through redwood and oak forests. Winter hiking is also possible, with trails often featuring picturesque and serene creek crossings.

Yes, there are several easy options perfect for families with young children. The Schilling Lake Trail is a great choice for a shorter, easy walk. Another excellent option is the Thornwoode Open Space Preserve – Schilling Lake loop, which offers a gentle, family-friendly loop experience.

La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve operates on a permit-only access system. This system helps maintain the preserve's tranquil atmosphere and ensures a sense of solitude for visitors. You will need to obtain a permit in advance to enter the preserve. Information on how to acquire permits is typically available through the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District website.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 270 reviews. Hikers often praise the preserve's sense of solitude, diverse landscapes ranging from redwoods to grasslands, and well-maintained trails. Many appreciate the opportunity to experience nature away from crowds, thanks to the permit system.

Yes, the preserve offers impressive elevation changes that provide panoramic vistas. Coho Vista Point, found along the Coho Vista Trail, is known for its sweeping views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and the coast, offering an excellent spot for families to appreciate the preserve's grandeur and potentially catch glimpses of the Pacific Ocean on clear days.

Given the diverse terrain and potential elevation changes, it's advisable to bring plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate footwear for varying trail conditions. Sun protection (hats, sunscreen) is recommended for open grassland sections, while layers are useful for shaded redwood areas. Don't forget your permit and a map!

For families seeking a moderate challenge, the Sierra Morena, Gordon Mill, Timberview, and Steam Donkey Loop is an excellent option. This route covers approximately 11 km with moderate elevation gain, taking you through varied landscapes and offering a rewarding circular experience.