Pulgas Water Temple loop from Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve

If you're looking for a challenging yet rewarding jogging route that blends natural beauty with a touch of historical grandeur, the Pulgas Water Temple loop from Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve is definitely worth your time. This difficult 10.2-mile (16.3 km) route packs in 577 feet (176 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 1 hour and 53 minutes to complete. It's a fantastic option for experienced joggers who appreciate varied terrain and unique landmarks.

What to expect on Pulgas Water Temple loop from Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve

The journey kicks off in Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve, where you'll tackle singletrack trails with engaging climbs and descents, offering amazing peninsula views that stretch across watershed lands, reservoirs, and even the San Francisco Bay. As you make your way towards the iconic Pulgas Water Temple, the terrain shifts to narrower, rockier, and gravelly sections, sometimes following a 'dirt sidewalk' along Cañada Road. The temple itself provides a serene contrast with its lush, manicured lawns and striking Greek and Roman architecture. This route is best suited for joggers who enjoy a mix of challenging ascents and varied surfaces, rewarding you with diverse scenery and a unique destination.

Planning your visit

Planning your visit requires a bit of attention to the Pulgas Water Temple's operating hours; it's typically open weekdays from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, but the parking lot is closed on weekends. While pedestrian access to the temple is usually still possible on weekends, you might need to park at the intersection of Edgewood and Cañada Roads and approach on foot or bike. Always check the current operating hours for both the preserve and the temple before you go.

• Distance: 10.2 miles (16.3 km)
• Elevation gain: 577 feet (176 metres)
• Difficulty: difficult
• Estimated time: 1 hours and 53 minutes