The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Huddart County Park

The Purisima Creek, Craig Britton, Whittemore Gulch, and Borden Hatch Mill Loop offers a deep dive into the Santa Cruz Mountains' varied ecosystems. You'll trek through dense second-growth redwood forests, where the Craig Britton Trail provides exceptional scenery, and then climb to higher ridges for sweeping coastal views of the Pacific Ocean. Expect a mix of smooth singletrack and challenging old logging roads, with the Purisima Creek Canyon providing a lush, shaded contrast to the more open, sunnier sections.

This difficult hiking route spans 14.9 miles (24.0 km) with a substantial 2594 feet (791 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring around 7 hours and 23 minutes to complete. Parking is available at trailheads like Higgins Canyon Road or Skyline Boulevard, but arrive early on weekends as it's a very popular destination. Be prepared for muddy conditions if hiking during the wetter winter and spring months.

This extensive loop is a fantastic way to experience the ecological diversity of the Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve, combining towering redwoods with open meadows and creek-side paths. The presence of old logging roads and stumps also hints at the area's rich history. It's a rewarding challenge for those seeking a long, varied day on the trails.

The Crystal Springs, Summit, Chinquapin and Dean Loop offers a journey through the lush redwood gulches of Huddart County Park, where sunlight filters through second-growth redwoods, madrone, and Douglas fir. You'll find yourself on mostly single-track dirt trails, winding through varied terrain that includes both gentle grades and some notably steep climbs, particularly along the Crystal Springs Trail. Seasonal creeks and wildflowers add to the natural beauty, creating a serene and engaging forest experience.

This moderate hiking route covers 7.5 miles (12.1 km) with 1373 feet (418 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 41 minutes to complete. Huddart Park provides picnic sites and restrooms, making it a convenient day trip. Remember that dogs are generally not allowed on the trails within Huddart Park, so plan accordingly.

While some sections near major roads might have traffic noise, the northern and eastern parts of the park offer a much quieter escape into nature. The trail provides glimpses of the San Francisco Bay through the trees, adding an extra layer of scenic reward to this challenging hike. It's a great option for those seeking a substantial forest trek with a good workout.

The Richards Road, Lonely Trail, and Miramontes Trail Loop offers a fantastic escape into the redwood and mixed hardwood forests of Huddart County Park and the Phleger Estate. You'll traverse varied terrain, from dense Coast Redwood groves along West Union Creek to quieter, lusher sections on the Lonely Trail, known for its peaceful solitude. This moderate 7.2-mile (11.6 km) hike, with 1592 feet (485 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 3 hours and 42 minutes, making it a rewarding half-day adventure.

When planning your visit, be sure to check the current status of the Miramontes Trail, as parts of it were affected by a past trail collapse and a reroute is still in progress. Parking is readily available at Huddart County Park, which is the primary access point for this loop. The trail offers plenty of shade, making it a comfortable option even on warmer days, and the forest can be particularly vibrant and serene during light rain.

This loop is a great way to experience the natural beauty of San Mateo County, showcasing majestic redwood and madrone trees. You might even spot local wildlife like black-tailed deer or banana slugs. The area is also popular with equestrians, particularly on sections like the Miramontes Trail and Richards Road. It's a diverse route that provides a good sense of the region's forest ecosystems and offers a quiet retreat from city life.

If you're seeking a peaceful escape into the redwoods with a good dose of climbing, the Lonely, Raymundo and Mount Redondo Trail Loop is a solid pick. This moderate 5.2-mile (8.4 km) hike takes you through varied terrain, from packed earth to rocky sections, often following West Union Creek. You'll experience the quiet solitude of the aptly named Lonely Trail as it winds uphill through a mixed redwood and hardwood forest, eventually leading to lusher, larger redwoods and offering scenic views near Skyline Ridge.

Planning your visit is straightforward, but keep in mind that the trail can get muddy and slippery after rain, so checking the weather is a smart move. The area is popular, so arriving early for parking is recommended, especially on busy days. While the trail is generally quiet, some lower sections might have traffic noise from Highway 280. The estimated time to complete this loop is around 2 hours and 45 minutes, with a total elevation gain of 1285 feet (391 metres).

This loop offers a fantastic way to explore the redwood forests of the Phleger Estate and Huddart County Park. The changing forest, from mixed hardwoods to increasingly lush and larger redwoods, adds to the aesthetic appeal, making it a visually rewarding experience. The Mount Redondo Trail section is particularly noted for its scenic beauty, providing a memorable journey through this beautiful part of California.