The best running trails in Thornewood Open Space Preserve

The hike from Razorback Ridge trailhead to the Windyhill summit is mostly through shaded sections. Sections of it kept cool from the fog rolling in from the Santa Cruz Mountains. The final section, Anniversary Trail is out in the open but has nice views of the bay.

Once upon a time this was the only general store in this area, serving not only as a general-purpose retailer but also the post office, bank, and informal dentist's office. Nowadays it's a museum, staffed by docents ready to offer drop-in history lessons.

Woodside Store was built back in the 1850s by two pioneers who came to California for the gold rush. At the time it was the only stagecoach stop between San Francisco and Santa Clara, and it carried all the essential items that travelers riding between cities might need. The store has been restored, inside and out, to look exactly as it did centuries ago. You can call the museum ahead of your trip to book tours.

Wunderlich Park, spanning 942 acres, is picturesque, with a beautiful mix of chaparral and redwood forest, expansive meadows, and striking oak and madrone trees. There is plenty of open space featuring a network of lovely hiking trails. Donated to the county by Martin Wunderlich, this area includes what was once the Folger family ranch. The stable and surrounding buildings have been meticulously restored, serving as a cherished historic landmark for the community. Dogs are not allowed in the park, so you'll need to leave your pup at home.

Purisima Creek Trailhead features a fence separating the trail from the road and a small pit toilet at the base. Parking is available just 250 feet southeast along Skyline Boulevard. This trail offers everything, from stunning views to towering redwoods, fern-filled canyons, and creeks. Riding through the redwoods is a unique experience.

Windy Hill Summit, located at an elevation of 1,905 feet within the Windy Hill Open Space Preserve, offers great views of Silicon Valley and the Peninsula. The preserve stretches 1,132 acres along the east side of the Santa Cruz Mountains, coming up from the valley road near Portola Valley to this scenic summit. It’s a great spot to watch the sunset and take in views.

The Woodside Store, also known as Tripp Store, is located at 3300 Tripp Road at Kings Mountain Road in Woodside, San Mateo County, California. It has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1985 and was designated a California Historical Landmark in 1949. The store's history dates back to October 1849 when Matthias Alfred Parkhurst purchased land in the area and began a shingle-making and lumber business with his partners, including Robert Orville Tripp. The store was established in 1853, originally serving the needs of lumbermen and settlers during the Gold Rush era. Dr. Tripp became the sole operator of the store after Parkhurst's death in 1863, running it until his own death in 1909. He was a well-known figure in Woodside, holding various public offices. The San Mateo County Historical Association acquired the store in the 1940s, and it was restored to its 1880s condition by 1994.

This wide trail guides you through a variety of mixed forests, including redwoods, California coffeeberry, California hazelnut, and California bay. As you gradually ascend by approximately 1,000 feet, prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking views of the surrounding Redwood area.