El Corte de Madera Outer loop

The preserve is typically accessed from Skyline Boulevard. Parking is available along Skyline, but it can fill up quickly. Arriving early, especially on weekends, is recommended to secure a spot. Since many routes involve descending into the preserve and climbing back out, parking at the top means you finish with an uphill climb.

No, this route is considered difficult due to its significant distance of over 20 km and substantial elevation changes, with over 700 meters of climbing. The trails can be rough and rocky in sections, and you'll often finish with a climb back up to Skyline Boulevard. It's best suited for experienced hikers.

You'll experience a varied terrain with a mix of fire roads and singletrack trails. Expect significant elevation changes, with descents into forest valleys followed by gradual to steep climbs. Some sections can be rough and rocky. The route primarily traverses dense evergreen and redwood forests, offering ample shade.

This route takes you through beautiful redwood forests, including dense stands of second-growth redwoods. You'll pass by the El Corte de Madera Creek Trail and the South Leaf Trail – Redwood Forest. A highlight is the Methusela Tree, a massive 1,800-year-old redwood. You might also encounter unique Tafoni sandstone formations.

Yes, the route intersects with several other trails within the preserve. You'll traverse sections of the Bay Area Ridge Trail - 04 - San Francisco and Peninsula, Lawrence Creek Trail, Oljon Trail, Virginia Mill Trail, South Leaf Trail, Skyline Trail, North Leaf Trail, Tafoni Trail, Sierra Morena Trail, Gordon Mill Trail, Fir Trail, Steam Donkey Trail, Methuselah Trail, Resolution Trail, Spring Board Trail, Blue Blossom Trail, and Molder Trail.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed in the El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors. Please remember to pack out any waste.

No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access the El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve. It is open to the public for recreational use.

The dense evergreen and redwood forests provide ample shade, making it a good option even on hot days. Spring offers the chance to see wildflowers like iris, foxglove, and trillium. While beautiful, be prepared for potentially wet and muddy trails if hiking in winter.

The preserve is very popular with mountain bikers, and almost all trails are open to them. Hikers need to be alert, especially on singletrack trails with blind curves, and be prepared to share the path. Always yield to uphill traffic and communicate clearly.

This challenging hike typically takes around 6 hours and 20 minutes to complete. This estimate is for moving time, so plan for additional time for breaks, enjoying the scenery, and navigating.

Given the length and difficulty, carry plenty of water and snacks. The significant elevation changes mean you'll often descend first and then climb back out, so conserve energy. Be aware of mountain bikers on shared trails. Cell service can be spotty in some areas, so consider downloading offline maps.