San Mateo County, located in the picturesque San Francisco Bay Area, is a hiker’s paradise. With its diverse landscapes, from coastal bluffs to redwood forests, the county offers a plethora of hiking opportunities for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best hiking trails in San Mateo County, detailing their unique features, trailheads, difficulty levels, and what makes them a must-visit for hikers.
1. Montara Mountain Trail
Overview: Montara Mountain Trail, located in McNee Ranch State Park, offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding coastal mountains. This trail is perfect for those looking to experience both the coastal and mountainous terrain of San Mateo County.
Trailhead: The trail begins at the Gray Whale Cove State Beach parking lot.
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Distance: 7.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,898 feet
Highlights:
- Stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean
- Diverse flora, including coastal scrub and wildflowers
- Opportunities for wildlife sightings, such as hawks and deer
2. Sawyer Camp Trail
Overview: Sawyer Camp Trail is a popular multi-use trail that winds along the Crystal Springs Reservoir. It’s an excellent choice for families and casual hikers due to its relatively flat terrain and scenic views.
Trailhead: The northern trailhead is located at Skyline Boulevard, while the southern trailhead is at Crystal Springs Road.
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 6 miles one way
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Highlights:
- Scenic views of Crystal Springs Reservoir
- Historic landmarks such as the Jepson Laurel, one of the oldest and largest laurel trees in California
- Paved path suitable for strollers and bicycles
3. Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve
Overview: Nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve offers lush redwood forests, babbling creeks, and rich biodiversity. It’s a haven for nature lovers and photographers.
Trailhead: The main entrance is off Skyline Boulevard (Highway 35).
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Distance: Various loops ranging from 4.5 to 9 miles
Elevation Gain: Up to 1,600 feet
Highlights:
- Towering redwood trees and dense forest canopy
- Purisima Creek, with its soothing sounds and occasional waterfalls
- Abundant wildlife, including banana slugs and various bird species
4. Año Nuevo Point Trail
Overview: Año Nuevo Point Trail is part of the Año Nuevo State Park, famous for its elephant seal population. This coastal trail provides a unique opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Trailhead: Located at the Año Nuevo State Park Visitor Center
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 4.1 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Highlights:
- Elephant seal viewing areas (guided tours available during breeding season)
- Coastal bluffs and sweeping ocean views
- Interpretive signs about the local ecology and history
5. Windy Hill Open Space Preserve
Overview: Windy Hill Open Space Preserve offers a variety of trails that showcase the beauty of the Bay Area’s rolling hills and open grasslands. It’s a great spot for both short hikes and longer treks.
Trailhead: The main parking lot is located off Portola Road.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Distance: Various loops ranging from 1.8 to 7.7 miles
Elevation Gain: Up to 1,600 feet
Highlights:
- Expansive views of the San Francisco Bay and Peninsula
- Open grasslands, oak woodlands, and seasonal wildflowers
- Ideal for picnicking and birdwatching
6. Crystal Springs Regional Trail
Overview: Crystal Springs Regional Trail is part of a network of trails that connect various parks and preserves. It offers a mix of shaded woodland paths and open vistas, making it suitable for all skill levels.
Trailhead: Multiple access points, including San Andreas Trail and Sawyer Camp Trail
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Distance: Up to 15 miles, depending on the chosen segment
Elevation Gain: Varies
Highlights:
- Views of San Andreas Lake and Crystal Springs Reservoir
- Historical sites, including the Pulgas Water Temple
- Paved and unpaved sections for different types of activities
7. Edgewood Park and Natural Preserve
Overview: Edgewood Park is renowned for its wildflower displays in the spring, attracting botanists and nature enthusiasts. The park’s diverse habitats include grasslands, woodlands, and chaparral.
Trailhead: The main entrance is off Edgewood Road.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Distance: Various loops ranging from 1.5 to 3.5 miles
Elevation Gain: Up to 800 feet
Highlights:
- Seasonal wildflower blooms with rare and endangered species
- Interpretive center with educational exhibits
- Serene trails with views of the surrounding hills
8. Huddart Park
Overview: Huddart Park, located in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains, offers a peaceful retreat with its dense forests and serene creeks. It’s a great spot for family outings and picnics.
Trailhead: Multiple access points, with the main entrance off Kings Mountain Road.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Distance: Various loops ranging from 1 to 6 miles
Elevation Gain: Up to 1,500 feet
Highlights:
- Redwood and oak forests providing ample shade
- Picnic areas and playgrounds
- Opportunities for horseback riding and group camping
9. Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Overview: Although partially located in Santa Cruz County, Big Basin Redwoods State Park is accessible from San Mateo County and offers some of the most iconic redwood hikes in the region.
Trailhead: Various trailheads, including the popular Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Distance: Various loops and point-to-point trails up to 11 miles
Elevation Gain: Up to 2,000 feet
Highlights:
- Ancient redwoods, including the famous Mother of the Forest
- Waterfalls, such as Berry Creek Falls
- Rich biodiversity and well-maintained trail systems
10. San Pedro Valley Park
Overview: San Pedro Valley Park, located near Pacifica, offers scenic trails with ocean views and lush vegetation. It’s a lesser-known gem perfect for a quiet hike.
Trailhead: Main entrance is off Oddstad Boulevard.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: Various loops ranging from 1 to 5 miles
Elevation Gain: Up to 1,000 feet
Highlights:
- Ocean views and coastal bluffs
- Seasonal wildflowers and diverse plant life
- Well-maintained trails with interpretive signs
San Mateo County’s hiking trails offer a rich tapestry of natural beauty, from coastal vistas to ancient redwoods. Each trail provides a unique experience, catering to hikers of all levels. Whether you’re looking for a challenging ascent or a leisurely stroll, San Mateo County has a trail that will meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
