Best attractions and places to see around Ladera include a variety of outdoor activities and historical sites in a region characterized by its hilly terrain and proximity to the San Francisco Bay Area. The area offers challenging climbs and scenic cycling routes through forested landscapes. Visitors can explore both natural parks and historical landmarks, providing diverse experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
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Didnβt OLR used to turn into Dirt before reaching Skyline? Is it all pavement now?? Scott
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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.
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While this is an expressway, there is good room for safe riding and most of the day it isn't too heavily trafficked which makes for a great, rolling straight run
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Old La Honda Rd downhill video: https://youtu.be/icnBpBZQ8gE?si=xYovaH-Nr8llwLEM
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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.
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Bedwell Bayfront Park is 160 acres in size and encourages hiking, running, bicycling, dog walking, bird watching, kite flying, and photography. This Park is walled in by Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge, so the chances of seeing wildlife is higher here.
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The trail south of here is a nice section. Bedwell Park is just a loop with some good views, but nearby construction detracts from some of it.
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Yes, Ladera offers several family-friendly options. The Woodside Store (Historic Site) is a pioneer settlement museum with trails, offering an educational and engaging experience. Additionally, Bedwell Bayfront Park (SF Bay Trail) is a 160-acre park perfect for hiking, running, bicycling, dog walking, bird watching, and kite flying, suitable for all ages.
The primary historical site in the area is the Woodside Store (Historic Site). This restored 1850s pioneer settlement museum served as a crucial stagecoach stop during the Gold Rush era. You can explore the buildings and surrounding trails, offering a glimpse into the region's past.
Ladera is well-known for its challenging and scenic cycling routes. Popular options include Old La Honda Road, a challenging climb with a consistent grade, and Kings Mountain Road, a narrow, winding descent through moderate tree cover. For a more independent ride from car traffic, consider Junipero Serra Boulevard, which features a generous paved bike lane. For more routes, check out the Cycling around Ladera guide.
Absolutely! The area around Ladera offers various hiking opportunities. Bedwell Bayfront Park (SF Bay Trail) features an extensive trail system, including a relatively flat 2.3-mile perimeter trail that is part of the San Francisco Bay Trail, as well as some steeper interior trails leading to viewpoints. For more detailed hiking options, explore the Hiking around Ladera guide, which includes routes like the Redtail Loop Trail and Arastradero Creek Loop.
Mountain biking enthusiasts will find trails around Ladera. You can discover routes such as the Redtail Loop to Arastradero Creek Trail Loop or the Old Ranch Trail. For a comprehensive list of trails and their difficulties, refer to the MTB Trails around Ladera guide.
The region around Ladera is characterized by hilly terrain and forested landscapes. You'll encounter scenic views, especially along cycling routes like Old La Honda Road and Kings Mountain Road, which are under moderate tree cover. Bedwell Bayfront Park (SF Bay Trail) offers bayfront views and is adjacent to the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge, increasing chances of wildlife sightings.
Yes, Bedwell Bayfront Park (SF Bay Trail) is an excellent spot for bird watching and wildlife spotting. The park's 160 acres are surrounded on three sides by the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge, significantly increasing the chances of encountering local wildlife.
Yes, several attractions offer scenic viewpoints. Old La Honda Road, while primarily a climb, offers rewarding views. Bedwell Bayfront Park (SF Bay Trail) also has interior trails that lead to various viewpoints overlooking the bay.
Visitors particularly appreciate the challenging yet rewarding cycling experiences on routes like Old La Honda Road and the exhilarating descent of Kings Mountain Road. The historical insights provided by the Woodside Store (Historic Site) and the diverse outdoor activities, including dog walking and bird watching, at Bedwell Bayfront Park (SF Bay Trail) are also highly valued.
While specific crowd levels can vary, Old La Honda Road is noted for its extremely light car traffic, making it a more serene cycling experience. For hiking, exploring some of the interior trails at Bedwell Bayfront Park (SF Bay Trail) might offer a quieter experience compared to the more popular perimeter trail, especially during off-peak hours.
Given its proximity to the San Francisco Bay Area, Ladera generally enjoys mild weather. Spring and fall often offer the most pleasant conditions for outdoor activities like cycling and hiking, with comfortable temperatures and less chance of extreme heat or heavy rain. Summer can be warm but is generally suitable, while winters are mild but may bring more rain.
Yes, Bedwell Bayfront Park (SF Bay Trail) is explicitly mentioned as encouraging dog walking, making it a great option for visitors with pets. Always ensure dogs are kept on a leash and follow park regulations.


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