The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Thornewood Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
4.7
(250)
3,443
hikers
83
hikes
Hiking in Thornewood Open Space Preserve (Closed Area) offers a diverse landscape of forested hills, shaded paths, and rolling terrain within the Santa Cruz Mountains. The preserve features second-growth redwood, Douglas fir, oak, and madrone woodlands. Dennis Martin Creek winds through the redwood forest, and Schilling Lake provides a habitat for wildlife. Occasional breaks in the foliage offer views of the southern San Francisco Bay and the distant Diablo Range.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Thornewood Open Space Preserveβ¦
Last updated: May 14, 2026
5.0
(2)
13
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
19.7km
05:56
790m
430m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.5
(2)
20
hikers
2.56km
00:42
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
34
hikers
4.99km
01:32
190m
190m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(7)
83
hikers
7.32km
02:15
290m
290m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This little 167-acre preserve is perfectly situated for a quick getaway; you might also see equestrians here. Dogs are allowed on leash.
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Wunderlich Park, spanning 942 acres, is picturesque, with a beautiful mix of chaparral and redwood forest, expansive meadows, and striking oak and madrone trees. There is plenty of open space featuring a network of lovely hiking trails. Donated to the county by Martin Wunderlich, this area includes what was once the Folger family ranch. The stable and surrounding buildings have been meticulously restored, serving as a cherished historic landmark for the community. Dogs are not allowed in the park, so you'll need to leave your pup at home.
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This is a well-maintained trail, adorned with tall trees, small creek crossings, and enjoyable single-track paths around fallen trees. With its mostly shaded surroundings, comfortable weather, and limited crowds, it's a picturesque and serene hike that leaves you wishing it were longer.
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This wide trail guides you through a variety of mixed forests, including redwoods, California coffeeberry, California hazelnut, and California bay. As you gradually ascend by approximately 1,000 feet, prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking views of the surrounding Redwood area.
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Take a moment to sit, unwind, and fully appreciate your surroundings at the two destination points equipped with benches. Immerse yourself in the diverse and captivating mixed forest environment, featuring Douglas fir, tan oak, coyote bush, and an array of other fascinating flora.
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At an estimated age of 1860 years and reaching a towering height of over 200 feet at its tallest point and with a trunk diameter of 14 feet, this remarkable tree stands as one of the few remaining first-growth trees in the region. Witnessing its grandeur firsthand is essential to fully comprehend its immense magnitude.
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Just beautiful nature
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Thornewood Open Space Preserve?
Thornewood Open Space Preserve offers a wide variety of hiking options suitable for families. You'll find nearly 90 routes in the area, with a significant number of them, over 40, rated as easy, making them perfect for family outings.
Are dogs allowed on the trails in Thornewood Open Space Preserve?
Yes, Thornewood Open Space Preserve is very dog-friendly! Leashed dogs are welcome on all trails, making it a great destination for families who want to bring their furry companions along for the adventure.
What kind of natural features can we expect to see while hiking with kids?
Families hiking here can enjoy diverse landscapes, including shaded forest paths winding through second-growth redwood, Douglas fir, oak, and madrone woodlands. Along trails like the Schilling Lake Trail, you'll see sunlit canopies of bigleaf maples and moss-covered oaks. Keep an eye out for seasonal wildflowers and the rich autumn hues in fall. You might also hear Dennis Martin Creek along the Bridle Trail.
Are there any easy loop trails suitable for families?
Absolutely! There are several easy loop trails perfect for families. A popular option is the Schilling Lake β Thornwoode Open Space Preserve loop, which is about 3.7 km long and takes you around the scenic Schilling Lake. Another slightly longer, easy loop is the Bear Gulch, Redwood, and Madrone Trail Loop, offering a pleasant 5 km walk through the forest.
What are the main attractions or points of interest for families?
A central attraction is Schilling Lake, a peaceful spot that was historically part of the estate's gardens and now serves as a wildlife habitat. While it's gradually becoming a wet meadow, it still attracts migrating waterfowl. The preserve's history as part of the Thornewood estate, developed in the 1920s, also adds an interesting historical layer to your visit.
What is the best time of year to visit Thornewood Open Space Preserve with children?
Thornewood Open Space Preserve is enjoyable year-round. Late winter and early summer are great for spotting seasonal wildflowers. Fall brings beautiful displays of rich autumn colors from black oaks and big-leaf maples. The shaded forest paths make it a comfortable place to hike even on warmer days.
Are there any trails that offer scenic viewpoints?
Yes, breaks in the foliage along some trails provide occasional views of the southern San Francisco Bay, Palo Alto (including Stanford University's Hoover Tower), and the distant Diablo Range. These spots offer great opportunities to pause and enjoy the wider landscape.
What do other hikers say about Thornewood Open Space Preserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 250 reviews. Reviewers often praise the quiet woodlands, well-maintained shaded paths, and the serene atmosphere, making it a favorite for quick getaways and family walks.
Is there parking available at Thornewood Open Space Preserve?
Yes, parking is available at the preserve. It's always a good idea to arrive earlier on busy days, especially weekends, to secure a spot, as it's a popular destination for hikers and families.
Are the trails suitable for strollers?
While many trails are shaded and relatively easy, the terrain can be uneven with roots and rocks, typical of forest paths. Some sections might be manageable with sturdy, all-terrain strollers, but it's generally more suitable for carriers or for children who can walk independently. For specific trail conditions, it's best to check recent reviews or contact the preserve directly.
What kind of wildlife might we encounter?
The preserve is home to various wildlife that families might enjoy spotting. Keep an eye out for birds like quail, jays, and hummingbirds. Deer are also frequently seen in the area, adding to the natural experience of your hike.
Most popular routes in Thornewood Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
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