Schilling Lake

The Schilling Lake Trail offers a surprisingly diverse and tranquil hiking experience packed into a short distance. You'll wander through sun-dappled oak and madrone forests, transitioning into lush, cool redwood groves before reaching the serene, marshy Schilling Lake. This easy 1.6-mile (2.6 km) route, with just 113 feet (34 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 41 minutes, making it an ideal quick nature escape.

Located in Thornewood Open Space Preserve, the trail begins with a moderate incline from the parking lot before leveling out. It's generally less crowded than other local trails, offering a peaceful outing. While the trail is family-friendly, be mindful of poison oak in the area and the potential for mountain lion sightings, as with any wilderness area. Visiting after winter rains can reward you with vibrant wildflowers.

This trail is a fantastic example of the diverse ecosystems found in the Santa Cruz Mountains, showcasing a rapid shift from dry hillsides to damp redwood forests. You can extend your adventure by connecting with the Bridle Trail for a longer, roughly 3-mile out-and-back hike along Dennis Martin Creek. The preserve also offers occasional panoramic views of Stanford University and the South Bay from higher vantage points.

The Thornwoode Open Space Preserve – Schilling Lake loop is a delightful, easy hike that offers a surprising variety of scenery for its length. You'll start with a few moderately steep turns, then quickly find yourself meandering through lush second-growth forests of Douglas fir, redwood, oak, and madrone. As you approach the tranquil Schilling Lake, the air cools and the foliage becomes greener, leading you into beautiful groves of grand redwoods. This 2.3-mile (3.8 km) route, with 373 feet (114 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a quick nature escape, taking just over an hour to complete.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the preserve is easily accessible and considered a great spot for a morning or afternoon outing. The trails are welcoming to your leashed dogs, making it a fantastic option for a family-friendly hike. While Schilling Lake is naturally transitioning into a wet meadow, the journey through the diverse forest and the chance to spot views of Stanford University and the South Bay make this a rewarding experience.

This loop is one of the best hiking routes in Thornewood Open Space Preserve for those seeking an easy, scenic walk without a major time commitment. The preserve itself holds a bit of history, named after Julian Thorne who purchased the property in 1908, and Schilling Lake after August Schilling of the Shilling Spice Company. It's a wonderful example of the natural attractions in the area, offering a peaceful retreat into nature.

The Thornwoode Open Space Preserve – Schilling Lake loop offers a delightful journey through changing ecosystems, from sunlit oak woodlands to tranquil redwood groves. You'll traverse moderately steep sections that quickly give way to flat paths, eventually descending to the protected wildlife habitat of Schilling Lake, where you might spot local waterfowl. This easy 3.2-mile (5.2 km) hike, with its 631 feet (192 metres) of elevation gain, provides a refreshing outdoor experience that takes around 1 hour and 36 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit is simple, as the preserve is easily accessible in the hills above Woodside, making it ideal for a spontaneous morning or afternoon outing. Parking at Thornewood Open Space Preserve is available, and dogs are welcome on leash, adding to its family-friendly appeal. For the best experience, consider hiking in late winter or spring when seasonal wildflowers, including the giant wake robin, are in bloom and small cascades can form in Dennis Martin Creek.

This route stands out for its blend of natural beauty and historical significance, as Schilling Lake was once part of the historic Thornewood estate's extensive gardens. Beyond the lake, you'll enjoy diverse forest types and, from certain points, catch glimpses of the southern San Francisco Bay and Palo Alto. It's a perfect beginner hike or a quick nature fix for those seeking a peaceful escape without a strenuous climb.