Purisima Creek Redwoods - A Park That Has It All!

** IMPORTANT! **
**PLEASE READ ALL INFORMATION!**

Please RSVP only if you are committed to attend. Reevaluate your availability a few days before the hike and withdraw at that time if you can no longer commit. This allows others to attend.

Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve is a favorite among seasoned hikers for its breathtaking views, towering redwoods, flowing creek, diverse ecosystems and a perfect balance of challenge and reward. Located on the western slopes of the Santa Cruz Mountains overlooking Half Moon Bay, it was once a logging site started in the 19th century. The land was purchased by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space Preserve in 1984. The preserve was established with a gift of $2 million from the Save-the-Redwoods League. The logging roads, connected with newly built footpaths, now serve as excellent hiking trails to explore the slopes of the Santa Cruz Mountains and the towering redwoods that call it home.

Gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean and Half Moon Bay to the hushed beauty and green shade of the redwoods. High ridges and deep canyons. Gurgling creeks and all the other natural sounds of the forest.

We'll be hiking counterclockwise on the popular Purisima > Craig Britton > Harkins Ridge > North Ridge > Whittemore Gulch Trails loop: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/whittemore-gulch-and-purisima-creek-loop-trail

Length: 9+ miles Elevation gain: roughly 2,100ft Time: 5+ hours
Effort: difficult due to steep climbs and distance. See Photo below
Route type: Loop
(there is an additional out & back trail North Ridge Trail extension (2 miles total and a couple of steep climbs) for those interested)

Unfortunately, no dogs are allowed.

Directions from Santa Cruz: Highway 1 North towards Half Moon Bay. From the Highway 84 and Highway 1 intersection in San Gregorio by San Gregorio State Beach, continue on Highway 1 north approximately 6.4 miles. Turn right on the third Verde Road/Purisima Creek Road intersection. After turning onto Verde Road and traveling .25 miles, continue straight to remain on what becomes Purisima Creek Road. (Verde Road splits off to the right.) Travel approximately 3.7 miles on Purisima Creek Road. My map pin will get you there if you just want to utilize that.

There are a limited number of parking spaces at our trailhead. If you are interested in carpooling, I ask that you stay engaged in our lines of communication as we work out carpooling details. We'll do this through Comments.

Please bring plenty of water (1-2 liters) and healthy/energizing snacks! Hiking shoes with good tread are a must. Also sun protection. And your joyful, nature-loving spirit! I look forward to seeing you all!

There are bathrooms at the beginning of our hike and also, if necessary, about 3/4 into the hike 0.3 miles down a side trail.

Please take a few moments and refer to the frequently updated Soquel SoleMates Hiking Group general description ("What We're About") for important information about this group. Soquel Soulmates Hiking Group
https://4142298.xyz/soquel-solemates-hiking-group/

I hope to see you there!
Jill :)