Attractions and Places To See around San Carlos - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around San Carlos, California, encompass a blend of natural landscapes, historical sites, and recreational opportunities within the Bay Area. The region features significant water infrastructure like the Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir and the historic Pulgas Water Temple. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems in local parks and wildlife refuges, alongside cultural institutions and historical landmarks. San Carlos offers a variety of outdoor activities, particularly cycling and hiking, across its varied terrain.
Best attractions and places to see around San Carlos
- The most popular attractions is Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir, a lake that features the 15-mile Crystal Springs Regional Trail, a mostly paved bike path. This area is known for its scenic views and is a popular spot for cycling and walking.
- Another must-see spot is Old La Honda Road, a challenging climb that lasts for almost 3 miles with an average grade just under 8%. It is a well-known route for cyclists seeking a workout with light traffic.
- Visitors also love Kings Mountain Road, a narrow and very twisty cycle way that descends for a little over 4 miles. The road offers a fast and exhilarating descent through moderate tree cover, popular among cyclists.
- San Carlos is known for its diverse range of attractions, including historical landmarks like the Pulgas Water Temple, natural features such as the Bair Island Wildlife Refuge, and cultural sites like the Hiller Aviation Museum. The city offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from outdoor recreation to historical insights.
- The attractions around San Carlos are appreciated by the komoot community, with 6 highlights featuring photos and receiving 66 upvotes from visitors.
Last updated: May 26, 2026
Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
Speed limit: 15 mph, difficult for high-end road bikes to stay below, so bring a bell: some hikers stand and talk in the center of the trail ;-)
San Andreas segment: From Skyline Boulevard south of San Bruno Avenue the trail drops to the head of San Andreas Lake, with pretty views across to the west of the wilderness slope of Montara Mountain. It rides along the lake 2 miles to an access point near Larkspur and 0.6 miles to another (at Hillcrest) where it connects to the Sawyer Camp segment.
Sawyer Camp segment: This is a gorgeous, easy bike ride, where you drop 400 feet over the span of 6 miles to Crystal Springs Dam. The route descends into riparian woodlands for 2.5 miles to Jepson Laurel picnic grounds, then runs along Crystal Springs Reservoir for 5.2 miles. You can continue another 1.7 miles to Cañada Road for Bicycle Sunday (no cars).
Cañada Road/Crystal Springs segment: South along Upper Crystal Springs Reservoir for 2.1 miles to the Pulgas Water Temple. It continues another 2.1 miles past Filoli Botanical Center and Phleger Estate to Edgewood Road
sfgate.com/outdoors/sundaydrive/article/Crystal-Springs-Trail-links-lakes-woodlands-4723374.php
parks.smcgov.org/crystal-springs-regional-trail
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Old La Honda Road
Highlight (Segment) • Climb
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Kings Mountain Road
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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Junipero Serra Boulevard
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Car traffic is everpresent on this route, and it can get particularly busy during commute hours on weekdays, though this shouldn't concern you much because (other than having to switch to the left-hand side of the right-turn lane at some intersections) you will be mostly independent of the traffic lanes in your own bike lane during this ride. Meanwhile, weekends with good weather will result in heavy bicycle traffic, in which case it would be worthwhile to pay extra attention to fast riders that might be approaching from behind, at least when you're stopping or resuming after a stop.
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Pulgas Water Temple
Highlight • Monument
On October 28, 1934, the roar of Hetch Hetchy mountain water greeted everyone gathered at Pulgas Water Temple to celebrate its arrival. With vivid memories of the fire that had raged after the Great Earthquake of 1906, the city rejoiced in its new secure, plentiful supply of high quality drinking water. The frieze above the columns expresses the city’s relief: “I give waters in the wilderness and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my people.”
Pulgas Water Temple was designed in the Beaux Arts style by William Merchant, a San Francisco architect trained by Bernard Maybeck. Merchant’s design featured fluted columns and Corinthian capitals to reflect the architecture of ancient Greeks and Romans, whose engineering methods were used to build the new water system. Artist and master stone carver Albert Bernasconi brought Merchant’s drawings to life.
Pulgas Water Temple is located about one-half mile south of the Cañada Road trailhead.
Open free to bikers & pedestrians every day, car parking opens only M-F 9-4
sfwater.org/index.aspx?page=93
Biketrail with more highlights and annotated photos at komoot.com/tour/11413421
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Tips from the Community
A fun, pretty place to stop while riding Cañada road. I has water and an air pump and bathrooms. Take a photo with friends.
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You're not hallucinating: This monument was deliberately built in the style of ancient Greek and Roman architecture, to commemorate the Great Depression-era Hetchy Hetchy Project that brought water down from the mountains to the Bay Area. The frieze says, “I give waters in the wilderness and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my people.”
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Didn’t OLR used to turn into Dirt before reaching Skyline? Is it all pavement now?? Scott
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The Crystal Springs Regional Trail is a top spot for cyclists, featuring mostly paved paths with minimal car traffic. The trail runs through scenic areas like Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir, offering beautiful lake views. On Sundays, you can ride the car-free Cañada Road segment for a more relaxed experience. Be mindful of the 15 mph speed limit, especially around hikers. The Sawyer Camp segment provides a gentle descent and stunning views, perfect for an easy ride through woodlands and along the reservoir.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular outdoor activities and trails around San Carlos?
San Carlos offers a variety of outdoor activities. The Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir features the 15-mile Crystal Springs Regional Trail, which is excellent for cycling and walking. For cyclists seeking a challenge, Old La Honda Road provides a demanding climb, while Kings Mountain Road offers an exhilarating descent. You can find more cycling routes in the Cycling around San Carlos guide, and various hiking options in the Hiking around San Carlos guide.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families in San Carlos?
Yes, several easy hiking trails are available. Easy hikes around San Carlos include routes like the Hallmark Park Loop and the Edgewood Trail Loop. Additionally, Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir's Crystal Springs Regional Trail is mostly paved and offers a gentle experience suitable for all ages. Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve also provides scenic beauty and opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts with varying trail difficulties.
Where can I go for a scenic bike ride near San Carlos?
For scenic bike rides, the Crystal Springs Regional Trail along the Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir is a top choice, offering beautiful lake views and mostly paved paths. Junipero Serra Boulevard also features generous, paved bike lanes for a smooth ride. On Sundays, the Cañada Road segment of the Crystal Springs Regional Trail is closed to cars, providing an even more relaxed cycling experience.
Can I find dog-friendly parks or trails in San Carlos?
While specific dog-friendly trails are not detailed in the highlights, many local parks in San Carlos welcome dogs. City Hall Park is known to be popular with dog owners. Always check local regulations for specific trails and parks regarding leash requirements and restricted areas.
What historical sites or landmarks can I visit in San Carlos?
San Carlos is rich in history. The Pulgas Water Temple is a significant historical site, a Beaux Arts monument commemorating the Hetch Hetchy Aqueduct. You can also explore the San Carlos Museum of History to learn about the city's past, and the Southern Pacific Depot, an 1888 landmark showcasing Richardson Romanesque architecture.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in San Carlos?
Absolutely. The Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir and its Crystal Springs Regional Trail are family-friendly for walking and cycling. The Pulgas Water Temple is also a great spot for families to visit, offering a unique historical and architectural experience. The Hiller Aviation Museum, with its vintage aircraft and flight simulators, is another excellent option for families.
Where can I experience nature and wildlife near San Carlos?
The Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir area offers beautiful riparian woodlands and views of three lakes. The Bair Island Wildlife Refuge & Trail is a 3,000-acre marsh area critical for various species, including endangered birds and mammals, making it ideal for wildlife spotting. Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve is also known for its diverse ecosystems and serpentine grasslands.
What cultural experiences does San Carlos offer?
Beyond historical sites, San Carlos offers cultural experiences like the Hiller Aviation Museum, which provides insights into aviation history. The San Carlos Museum of History preserves local heritage. Additionally, the Mid-Peninsula Wine Trail features several wineries and tasting rooms, offering a unique cultural and culinary experience.
Is there a vibrant area for dining and shopping in San Carlos?
Yes, the Laurel Street Pedestrian Mall is a vibrant area in San Carlos. It's lined with restaurants, bars, and shops, providing an inviting space for walking, biking, and outdoor dining, making it a central hub for social activity.
Are there any hidden gems or unique places to discover in San Carlos?
While not exactly 'hidden,' the Pulgas Water Temple is a unique architectural marvel that many visitors find surprisingly beautiful. The Mid-Peninsula Wine Trail, with its various local wineries, also offers a distinct experience away from typical tourist spots. Exploring the numerous historical markers around the city can also uncover lesser-known local stories.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around San Carlos?
Visitors particularly enjoy the scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. The Crystal Springs Regional Trail is praised for its beautiful lake views and being a great spot for cycling and walking. Cyclists appreciate the challenging climbs of Old La Honda Road and the exhilarating descent of Kings Mountain Road. The historical significance and unique architecture of the Pulgas Water Temple also receive high regard.
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Most popular attractions around San Carlos
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