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

There are over 40 family-friendly hiking routes in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve, with 24 of these specifically rated as easy, making them ideal for families with younger children or those looking for a gentle stroll.

Yes, the preserve offers accessible options. The Upper Lake Loop Trail, near the main parking area, is an ADA-compliant interpretive trail that encircles Upper Lake. It's perfect for strollers and provides an easy, engaging experience for all ages and abilities, featuring habitat restoration sites and historical artifacts.

Families can immerse themselves in diverse landscapes, from towering second-growth and ancient old-growth redwood forests to Douglas fir and oak woodlands. Several perennial creeks, like Webb Creek and Briggs Creek, add to the lush scenery. Higher elevations offer expansive views of the Sierra Azul Range and Santa Clara Valley.

Absolutely! The preserve is rich in history. You'll find remnants and reconstructed structures from its past as a Gilded Age estate and later as Alma College. Interpretive panels guide visitors through this history, showcasing artifacts like Ohlone mortars around the Upper Lake Loop Trail. An old carport was even renovated into a 'Bat Cave' to provide a safe home for bats.

Many of the family-friendly routes are loops, perfect for a complete experience without retracing your steps. Consider the Old Growth Redwood Trees loop from Lexington Reservoir County Park, an easy 4 km route. Another great option is the Manzanita and Novitiate Loop Trail, an easy 5.3 km hike.

The preserve's diverse ecosystems support a variety of wildlife. Keep an eye out for mule deer, coyotes, and various bird species. You might also spot western pond turtles in the creeks. The 'Bat Cave' provides a home for several bat species, and Briggs Creek is known to host special status species like the California Giant Salamander.

The preserve is beautiful year-round. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers and lush greenery, while the shaded redwood groves offer a cool escape during warmer summer months. Autumn provides pleasant temperatures and changing foliage. Winter can be serene, though some trails might be muddy after rain.

For families with older children or those seeking a bit more challenge, the preserve offers moderate options. The Madrone Knoll Loop is a moderate 12 km route with significant elevation gain, offering rewarding views from higher elevations.

The main parking area is conveniently located near the Upper Lake Loop Trail, providing easy access to many of the family-friendly routes. Specific trailheads may have designated parking, so it's always a good idea to check the route details before your visit.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.55 stars. Reviewers often praise the serene redwood forests, the well-maintained trails, and the diverse scenery that makes each visit unique. The historical elements and wildlife viewing opportunities are also frequently highlighted as enjoyable aspects for families.

Yes, the Old Growth Redwood Trees loop from Lexington Reservoir County Park is an easy 4 km route that allows families to experience the majestic old-growth redwoods, some estimated to be 600 to 800 years old and over 200 feet tall.

While the preserve is primarily accessed by car, public transport options to the immediate vicinity are limited. It's recommended to check local transit authority websites for the most up-to-date information on routes that might serve the area, though direct access to trailheads via public transport is generally not available.