Alice's Restaurant at La Honda and Skyline Junction
Alice's Restaurant at La Honda and Skyline Junction
Highlight • Restaurant
Alice's Restaurant at La Honda and Skyline Junction
Road cycling
4.4
(24)
Cycling
5.0
(2)
Alice's Restaurant, situated at an elevation of 449 meters in Woodside, California, is a historic and beloved community hub nestled among towering redwood trees. Located at the intersection of State Routes 84 (La Honda Road) and 35 (Skyline Boulevard), this iconic establishment serves as a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike, about 40 miles south of San Francisco. It's a landmark destination for anyone exploring the scenic routes of the Santa Cruz Mountains.
Visitors consistently praise Alice's Restaurant for its beautiful and peaceful setting, offering a perfect respite amidst nature. The laid-back, welcoming vibe and friendly staff create an inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a break. Many hikers, cyclists, and motorcyclists find it to be the perfect place for a cold drink or a satisfying meal after tackling the challenging climbs and scenic drives in the area.
Before heading out, it's good to know that Alice's Restaurant is a popular destination, especially on weekends, so it can get busy. The drive itself, particularly along winding roads like La Honda Road or Skyline Boulevard, is considered part of the experience. The restaurant offers both indoor dining and outdoor picnic tables, and it's known to be dog-friendly. While there isn't extensive public transport to La Honda area or Skyline Boulevard Woodside, ample parking for trails near Alice's Restaurant is usually available for those arriving by car or motorcycle.
Alice's Restaurant is a year-round destination, offering a welcoming stop for various activities. It's a prime spot for a post-ride meal for cyclists exploring the mountain biking trails La Honda Skyline, or a coffee break for hikers enjoying the popular trails near Alice's Restaurant La Honda Skyline Junction. The diverse menu, featuring gourmet burgers and homemade pies, caters to all appetites, making it a great lunch or breakfast stop.
The experience at Alice's Restaurant is truly unique, offering a glimpse into a vibrant community. It's a place where diverse groups, from local families to tech entrepreneurs, converge, creating a lively "cross-section of America." Many appreciate the peaceful spot among the redwoods, perfect for unwinding after a long ride or hike, and the chance to enjoy good food in a relaxed setting. The restaurant's commitment to locally sourced ingredients further enhances the appeal of this memorable stop.
Whether you're looking for easy hiking trails near Alice's Restaurant La Honda, challenging mountain bike trails near Skyline Junction, or simply a place to relax, there are numerous options to explore. You can discover a variety of routes for hiking with dogs near Skyline Junction restaurant, or find family friendly walks La Honda Skyline area. To plan your adventure and find the perfect path, komoot offers a wide selection of routes that pass by or lead directly to this iconic restaurant, along with nearby cafes and pubs after hiking La Honda.
Tips
December 3, 2024
Road cycling
June 20, 2025
Cycling
November 24, 2020
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Alice's Restaurant at La Honda and Skyline Junction
4.5
(11)
205
riders
44.3km
02:19
790m
790m
This moderate 27.5-mile road cycling loop from Palo Alto features the classic Old La Honda climb, redwood groves, and scenic views.
4.0
(3)
172
riders
37.5km
02:05
730m
730m
Cycle the Old La Honda Road loop, a moderate 23.3-mile route near Redwood City known for its challenging climb and scenic redwood groves.
5.0
(9)
452
riders
95.0km
05:15
2,040m
2,040m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Details
Informations
Elevation 450 m
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Sunday 17 May
22°C
7°C
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Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly hiking trails near Alice's Restaurant?
Yes, the area around Alice's Restaurant offers several options for family-friendly walks and easy hikes. While specific trail names aren't provided, the general vicinity of La Honda and Skyline Boulevard is known for its scenic beauty and accessible paths suitable for all ages. Look for trails with minimal elevation gain for a relaxed outing.
Can I bring my dog to Alice's Restaurant or on nearby trails?
Alice's Restaurant itself is dog-friendly, welcoming furry companions. For nearby trails, it's always best to check specific park or preserve regulations, as policies can vary. Many trails in the Santa Cruz Mountains allow dogs on leash, but some may have restrictions to protect wildlife or sensitive habitats.
What kind of food can I expect at Alice's Restaurant?
Alice's Restaurant is known for its diverse menu, featuring classic American comfort food with a focus on quality. You can expect gourmet burgers, including options with 100% free-range, grass-fed beef, scrambles, and delicious homemade pies. They also offer various breakfast and lunch options, sourcing ingredients locally where possible.
Is public transportation available to reach Alice's Restaurant or nearby trailheads?
Public transportation to the immediate area of Alice's Restaurant at La Honda and Skyline Junction is not extensive. Most visitors arrive by car, motorcycle, or bicycle. Planning your trip with a personal vehicle is highly recommended for convenience and flexibility in exploring the surrounding trails.
Are there challenging mountain biking trails near Skyline Junction?
Absolutely. The Santa Cruz Mountains, particularly around Skyline Boulevard, are renowned for their challenging mountain biking trails. The winding roads and varied terrain offer plenty of opportunities for experienced riders seeking technical descents and strenuous climbs. Many routes pass by Alice's Restaurant, making it a popular refueling stop.
What are the best times of year to hike or visit the area around Alice's Restaurant?
While Alice's Restaurant is a year-round destination, the best time for hiking and outdoor activities often depends on personal preference. Spring offers lush greenery and wildflowers, while fall provides cooler temperatures and clear skies. Summer is popular but can be warmer, and winter brings a different kind of beauty with potential for rain, making trails muddy but also less crowded. Always check weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic landmarks close to Alice's Restaurant?
The entire drive to Alice's Restaurant, especially along State Routes 84 and 35, is considered scenic, offering views of towering redwood trees and the Santa Cruz Mountains. The restaurant itself is nestled in a beautiful, peaceful spot among these redwoods. Many nearby trails will lead to various viewpoints overlooking the surrounding natural landscape.
Where can I find accommodation near Alice's Restaurant?
While Alice's Restaurant is in a more rural setting, there are various accommodation options in the broader Woodside, La Honda, and Skyline Boulevard areas. These can range from small inns and bed-and-breakfasts to vacation rentals. For campgrounds, you might need to venture a bit further into the surrounding state parks or open space preserves.
What should I wear for hiking near Alice's Restaurant in winter?
For winter hiking in the Santa Cruz Mountains, layering is key. Expect cooler temperatures, especially in the shade of the redwoods, and potential for rain. Waterproof outer layers, moisture-wicking base layers, and sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended. A warm hat and gloves can also be beneficial.
Are permits required for hiking in nearby preserves like La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve?
Access requirements, including permits, can vary for different open space preserves and parks in the region. For specific information regarding La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve or other protected areas, it's always best to check the official website of the managing agency (e.g., Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District) before your visit.
How crowded does Alice's Restaurant get, especially on weekends?
Alice's Restaurant is a very popular destination, particularly on weekends. It attracts a diverse crowd including locals, cyclists, motorcyclists, and hikers. Expect it to be busy during peak hours, especially for lunch. Arriving earlier in the day can help you secure a table more easily.