The best walks and hikes in Felton Station Open Space Preserve (Closed)

No, Felton Station Open Space Preserve is not open to the public. It is an undeveloped 44-acre parcel of land managed by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District for ecosystem rehabilitation and has no trails or public access facilities.

The preserve has never been developed for public use. It was acquired by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District for conservation purposes. Current efforts are focused on habitat restoration and wildfire fuel reduction rather than creating public access.

There are no official plans or timelines for opening the preserve to the public. It remains a conservation area without visitor amenities.

Since the preserve is closed, hikers should explore the excellent trail networks in nearby parks. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is a very popular choice, offering extensive trails through magnificent redwood groves. The Fall Creek Unit of this state park is another highly-regarded area, known for its shady canyon and creekside paths.

Yes, while many redwood state parks have restrictions, you can find dog-friendly trails nearby. Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve is a great option, offering a 366-acre off-leash area for dogs and numerous trails through canyons and over ridges.

The Redwood Grove Loop Trail in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is an excellent choice. It's a flat, accessible, and short loop that is perfect for all ages and abilities, offering a fantastic introduction to the area's giant redwood trees.

The trails within the Fall Creek Unit of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park are ideal for hot weather. The dense redwood and Douglas fir canopy provides ample shade, and the canyon setting along the creek is often significantly cooler than surrounding areas.

The hiking routes in this region are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the stunning redwood forests, the variety of trails suitable for different fitness levels, and the well-maintained paths in parks like Henry Cowell.

For a pleasant loop, consider the Lake Ranch Reservoir loop from Los Gatos. It's a relatively easy walk that offers nice scenery around the reservoir without a significant amount of climbing.

There is a wide variety of trails to explore in the mountains around Felton. You can find over 60 curated hiking routes in this guide collection, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs.

Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends at popular spots like the main entrance to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and the Fall Creek Unit. It is strongly recommended to arrive early in the morning to secure a parking space.

Yes, the Santa Cruz Mountains offer plenty of strenuous climbs. The Bear Creek Summit through Old Growth Redwood Trees Preserve route is a challenging option, involving significant elevation gain through beautiful forest landscapes.