How to Hike Portola Redwoods from San Francisco

Portola Redwoods State Park, nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains just south of San Francisco, offers one of the most accessible and rewarding redwood hiking experiences in Northern California. While many visitors flock to Muir Woods or Big Basin, Portola Redwoods remains a quieter, less crowded sanctuary where ancient coast redwoods tower over moss-carpeted trails, and serene forest streams wind through shaded canyons. For San Francisco residents and visitors seeking a nature escape without a long drive, Portola Redwoods delivers an unforgettable day trip filled with towering trees, wildlife sightings, and peaceful solitude.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough on how to hike Portola Redwoods from San Francisco — covering everything from route planning and parking to trail selection, safety, and seasonal considerations. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time forest explorer, this tutorial ensures you’ll arrive prepared, hike confidently, and return with lasting memories of California’s majestic redwood ecosystems.

Step-by-Step Guide

Plan Your Trip: Timing and Reservations

Portola Redwoods State Park is open year-round, but your experience will vary significantly depending on the season. The best months to visit are April through October, when rainfall is minimal, trails are dry, and visibility is optimal. Winter months (November–March) bring frequent rain, which can turn trails muddy and increase the risk of slippery conditions or trail closures due to erosion.

Unlike Muir Woods, Portola Redwoods does not require a reservation for day use. However, parking is limited, especially on weekends and holidays. Arriving early — ideally before 9 a.m. — ensures you secure a spot in the main parking lot near the park entrance. If the main lot fills, overflow parking is available along Skyline Boulevard, but be prepared to walk an additional 0.5 to 1 mile to reach trailheads.

Check the official California State Parks website for real-time updates on trail conditions, fire restrictions, or closures before departure. Weather in the Santa Cruz Mountains can change rapidly — even if it’s sunny in San Francisco, fog or drizzle may blanket the park. Pack accordingly.

Choose Your Route: Trail Options from San Francisco

There are three primary access routes from San Francisco to Portola Redwoods State Park. Each varies in travel time, traffic, and scenic value.

Route 1: Highway 280 South (Fastest and Most Direct)

Start on Highway 280 South from downtown San Francisco. Continue past South San Francisco, Daly City, and Hillsdale. Exit at Skyline Boulevard (Highway 35) at the Portola Valley exit. Turn right onto Skyline Boulevard and drive approximately 10 miles north. Look for the park entrance on the right, marked by a brown state park sign. This route takes 45–60 minutes depending on traffic and is ideal for weekday or early morning trips.

Route 2: Highway 101 South + Highway 280 West (Scenic Alternative)

Take Highway 101 South toward San Jose. Exit at the Woodside/Portola Valley interchange and merge onto Highway 280 West. Follow signs to Skyline Boulevard. This route adds 5–10 minutes but offers more scenic views of the peninsula and avoids the heaviest traffic on 280 during rush hour. Best for travelers who prefer winding roads and fewer commercial zones.

Route 3: Public Transit + Ride Share (Eco-Friendly Option)

While Portola Redwoods is not directly accessible by public transit, you can combine BART and Caltrain to reach the Menlo Park or Palo Alto stations. From there, use a ride-share service (Uber or Lyft) to reach the park entrance. This option takes 1.5–2 hours but reduces your carbon footprint and eliminates parking stress. Ideal for visitors without a car.

Park Entry and Trailhead Access

Upon arrival, pay the $10 day-use parking fee at the self-service kiosk near the entrance. Cash and credit cards are accepted. Receipts are not required for trail access but serve as proof of payment if rangers conduct spot checks.

The main trailhead is located directly across from the parking lot. Look for the sign marking the start of the Redwood Creek Trail — this is the most popular and well-maintained path into the heart of the park. For those seeking a longer loop, the El Corte de Madera Creek Trail connects to Redwood Creek and offers additional elevation and water features.

Restrooms are available near the parking lot, but there are no water fountains. Bring your own water — at least 2 liters per person — as the nearest refill station is 10 miles away in Woodside.

Trail Navigation: Choosing Your Hike

Portola Redwoods offers a range of trails suited for all fitness levels. Below are the top three recommended hikes, each starting from the main trailhead.

Option 1: Redwood Creek Trail Loop (2.4 miles, Easy)

This is the ideal first hike for families, beginners, or anyone short on time. The loop begins with a gentle descent along Redwood Creek, passing under a canopy of 300-year-old coast redwoods. The trail is wide, flat, and paved in sections. Look for the wooden footbridge over the creek — a popular photo spot. Return via the same path or continue to the connecting loop for a slightly longer route. Total time: 1–1.5 hours.

Option 2: El Corte de Madera Creek Trail + Redwood Creek Loop (5.2 miles, Moderate)

For those seeking more challenge and solitude, this loop adds elevation and scenic diversity. After following Redwood Creek Trail for 0.8 miles, turn left onto El Corte de Madera Creek Trail. This section climbs gently through mixed evergreen forest, crosses a small footbridge over a cascading stream, and offers panoramic views of the canyon. Reconnect with the Redwood Creek Trail near the midpoint and return via the original loop. Total elevation gain: 400 feet. Total time: 2.5–3 hours.

Option 3: Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail (12 miles, Strenuous — Full Day)

For experienced hikers, this long-distance trail begins at Portola Redwoods and continues all the way to the Pacific Ocean in Santa Cruz. The first 6 miles through Portola are the most forested and shaded portion of the trail. This route requires advanced navigation skills, ample water, and a full-day commitment. Plan to exit via the Santa Cruz end or arrange a shuttle. Do not attempt this unless you’re prepared for 8–10 hours of hiking.

What to Pack: Essential Gear for the Hike

Even on a mild day, the redwood forest can feel cool and damp under the canopy. Pack the following essentials:

• Sturdy hiking shoes or boots — Trails can be muddy, root-covered, or rocky.
• Layered clothing — A moisture-wicking base layer, light fleece, and a waterproof shell are ideal. Temperatures can drop 10–15°F under the trees.
• 2–3 liters of water per person — No potable water sources on trails.
• Snacks and energy bars — Trail mix, nuts, or fruit help maintain energy.
• Map and compass or offline GPS app — Cell service is spotty. Download the CalTopo or Gaia GPS map for Portola Redwoods in advance.
• First aid kit — Include blister care, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers for ticks.
• Insect repellent — Mosquitoes and ticks are present, especially near water.
• Camera and binoculars — Great for spotting banana slugs, owls, and deer.
• Trash bag — Pack out everything you bring in. Leave No Trace principles apply.

Navigation Tips: Avoiding Getting Lost

Portola Redwoods has minimal signage beyond major junctions. Many trails intersect, and it’s easy to miss a turn. Always carry a physical map from the park’s visitor center or print one before you go. Use the following landmarks to stay oriented:

• Redwood Creek is your primary reference point — most trails run parallel to it.
• The wooden footbridge near mile 0.6 is a key marker for the loop turn-around.
• El Corte de Madera Creek Trail is marked by a small wooden sign with a blue arrow.
• Watch for trail blazes — small metal tags nailed to trees. White blazes indicate main trails; yellow indicates side paths.

If you’re unsure of your location, stop and retrace your steps to the last clear landmark. Do not rely on phone GPS alone — signal drops are common under dense canopy.

Best Practices

Respect the Ecosystem: Leave No Trace

Portola Redwoods is home to some of the oldest and most sensitive redwood groves in California. These trees survive for over 2,000 years and depend on undisturbed soil, clean water, and minimal human interference. Follow these Leave No Trace principles:

• Stay on designated trails — stepping off-trail damages root systems and moss beds that take decades to recover.
• Do not carve names into bark or remove pinecones, ferns, or fallen branches.
• Never feed wildlife — even seemingly harmless animals like squirrels or deer can become dependent or aggressive.
• Use designated fire rings only — open fires are prohibited outside of campgrounds.
• Pack out all trash, including food wrappers, fruit peels, and biodegradable items.

These practices protect not only the forest but also the wildlife that depends on it — including the endangered Pacific fisher, northern spotted owls, and the rare San Francisco garter snake.

Wildlife Safety and Awareness

While encounters with large predators are rare, you may encounter black bears, coyotes, or mountain lions. These animals typically avoid humans, but it’s important to act responsibly:

• Store food in sealed containers — never leave snacks unattended.
• If you see a bear, do not run. Back away slowly, speak calmly, and make yourself appear larger.
• Keep dogs leashed at all times — they can disturb wildlife and trigger defensive behavior.
• Be aware of ticks — especially in tall grass near creek beds. Check your body and clothing after your hike.

Also watch for poison oak, which grows along trail edges. It has three glossy leaflets and can cause a severe rash. Learn to identify it: “Leaves of three, let it be.”

Weather Preparedness

The Santa Cruz Mountains are prone to sudden microclimates. Even on a sunny day in San Francisco, fog and drizzle can roll in within minutes. Always carry a lightweight rain jacket, even in summer. In winter, trail conditions may deteriorate rapidly after rain. Avoid hiking after heavy storms — creeks can swell, and trails may become unstable.

Check the National Weather Service for the “Santa Cruz Mountains” forecast. Wind speeds can increase dramatically above 2,000 feet — layers are essential.

Group Hiking and Communication

If hiking with a group, establish a plan before setting out:

• Designate a leader and a rear guard to ensure no one gets left behind.
• Set a turnaround time — for example, “We’ll turn back at 1 p.m. regardless of progress.”
• Share your itinerary with someone not on the hike — provide your expected return time and trail name.
• Use walkie-talkies or satellite communicators (like Garmin inReach) if venturing beyond the main loop.

Children and elderly hikers should be matched with trails that suit their stamina. The Redwood Creek Loop is ideal for all ages.

Photography and Quiet Enjoyment

Portola Redwoods is a place for quiet contemplation. Avoid loud music, shouting, or excessive phone use. The forest’s natural sounds — rustling leaves, bird calls, and flowing water — are part of the experience.

For photographers, the best light occurs in the early morning or late afternoon when sunbeams pierce the canopy. Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare on wet moss and bark. Tripods are permitted but avoid disturbing roots or ferns to set them up.

Tools and Resources

Official Park Resources

Always consult the California State Parks website for Portola Redwoods State Park before your visit:

• Portola Redwoods State Park Official Page — Trail maps, alerts, and rules.
• Downloadable Trail Map (PDF) — Includes trail lengths, elevations, and landmarks.
• Phone: (650) 364-2254 — For real-time trail conditions (leave a message if unanswered).

Navigation and Mapping Apps

Cell service is unreliable in the park. Use these offline-capable apps:

• Gaia GPS — Download the Portola Redwoods layer. Tracks your location even without signal.
• CalTopo — Free web-based tool with topographic overlays. Print a paper copy as backup.
• AllTrails — User-submitted trail reviews and photos. Filter by “family-friendly” or “dog-friendly.”

Guided Tours and Educational Programs

While self-guided hikes are the norm, the park occasionally offers ranger-led walks during spring and fall. These 90-minute tours focus on redwood ecology, indigenous history, and conservation efforts. Check the park calendar on the official website or visit the visitor center upon arrival to inquire about scheduled programs.

Local Gear Shops in San Francisco

If you need to rent or purchase hiking gear, these shops offer quality equipment and expert advice:

• REI Co-op San Francisco — 1400 Market Street. Offers backpacks, boots, and water filters.
• Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC) — Online Only — Reliable for technical gear and sustainable outdoor clothing.
• Outdoor Gear Exchange — 1200 Valencia Street. Budget-friendly rentals and used gear sales.

Weather and Air Quality Tools

Before leaving, check:

• AccuWeather — For hyperlocal forecasts in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
• AirNow.gov — Monitors wildfire smoke levels. Avoid hiking if AQI exceeds 100.
• Windy.com — Tracks wind speed and fog patterns over the peninsula.

Community and Volunteer Opportunities

Interested in giving back? The Portola Redwoods Stewards group organizes monthly trail maintenance days. Volunteers help clear debris, repair signage, and plant native species. Sign up through the California State Parks volunteer portal. It’s a great way to deepen your connection to the park and meet fellow nature lovers.

Real Examples

Example 1: A Family Day Out — The Smiths of San Mateo

The Smith family — parents Maria and Tom, and their two children (ages 7 and 10) — visited Portola Redwoods on a Saturday in May. They left San Francisco at 7:30 a.m., took Highway 280, and arrived by 8:30 a.m. They parked early, paid the fee, and started the Redwood Creek Loop. The kids were amazed by the towering trees and spotted a banana slug near the creek. They packed a picnic lunch on a flat rock beside the trail and returned to the car by noon. “It felt like stepping into a fairy tale,” Maria said. “No crowds, no noise — just peace.” They plan to return in autumn to see the ferns turn gold.

Example 2: Solo Hiker — Javier from Oakland

Javier, a 32-year-old software engineer, hikes Portola Redwoods every other month to decompress. He takes the El Corte de Madera Creek Loop on weekdays, starting at 6 a.m. He brings a thermos of coffee, a notebook, and his Canon camera. “I don’t take photos to post online — I take them to remember how small I am in this forest,” he says. He once saw a black bear 50 yards off-trail. He stayed still, spoke softly, and the bear wandered away. “It reminded me that this isn’t my space — it’s theirs.”

Example 3: Photography Project — Lena’s Redwood Series

Lena, a local photographer, spent six months documenting Portola Redwoods through all seasons. She captured the mist rising off Redwood Creek in winter, the sunlight filtering through new spring leaves, and the deep shadows of autumn. Her exhibit, “Whispers of the Giants,” was featured at the San Francisco Botanical Garden. She credits her success to early mornings, patience, and respecting the forest’s rhythm. “You can’t force nature to perform,” she says. “You have to wait for it to reveal itself.”

Example 4: Group Volunteer Day — Bay Area Hikers Club

Twelve members of the Bay Area Hikers Club volunteered for a trail cleanup in October. They removed 37 pounds of trash, cleared fallen branches blocking the El Corte de Madera Trail, and repainted faded trail markers. One member, a retired teacher, brought her grandchildren to help. “It’s not just about hiking,” she said. “It’s about stewardship.” The group returned the next month to plant native sword ferns along the creek bank.

FAQs

How far is Portola Redwoods from San Francisco?

Portola Redwoods State Park is approximately 30–35 miles from downtown San Francisco. Travel time ranges from 45 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes, depending on traffic and route chosen.

Is Portola Redwoods open every day?

Yes, the park is open daily from sunrise to sunset. The main entrance gate is unstaffed, but park rangers patrol regularly. Always check for temporary closures due to fire risk or storm damage.

Are dogs allowed on the trails?

Dogs are permitted on most trails but must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. They are not allowed in the backcountry or near sensitive wildlife zones. Always clean up after your pet.

Can I camp at Portola Redwoods?

No, Portola Redwoods does not offer camping. The nearest state park with campsites is Big Basin Redwoods State Park, approximately 15 miles south. For overnight stays, consider lodging in Woodside or La Honda.

Is there cell service on the trails?

Cell service is extremely limited. Verizon may have sporadic bars near the parking lot, but most trails have no signal. Rely on offline maps and inform someone of your plans.

Are there restrooms or water fountains?

Restrooms are available at the main parking lot. There are no water fountains on the trails. Bring all the water you’ll need.

What’s the best time of day to hike?

Early morning (7–10 a.m.) offers the best light for photography, cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds. Late afternoon (3–5 p.m.) is also good, but trails may be busier as day-trippers return.

Can I hike Portola Redwoods in the rain?

You can, but trails become slippery and muddy. Wear waterproof boots and avoid hiking after heavy rainfall. Creek crossings may become dangerous. Check conditions before you go.

Is the trail wheelchair accessible?

The first 0.3 miles of the Redwood Creek Trail are paved and relatively flat, making it accessible for some mobility devices. However, the trail becomes uneven beyond that point. There is no ADA-compliant loop.

Are there any fees besides parking?

Only the $10 parking fee applies. No additional entrance or permit fees are required for day hiking.

Conclusion

Hiking Portola Redwoods from San Francisco is more than a day trip — it’s an immersion into one of the last great redwood forests on the California coast. With its proximity to the city, minimal crowds, and breathtaking natural beauty, Portola Redwoods offers a rare opportunity to reconnect with ancient ecosystems without traveling hundreds of miles.

This guide has equipped you with everything you need: from precise driving routes and trail options to safety protocols, gear recommendations, and real-life stories from those who’ve walked these paths. Remember, the redwoods don’t need us to visit — but we need them. By following Leave No Trace principles, respecting wildlife, and approaching the forest with humility, you become part of its preservation.

Whether you’re hiking with your family, capturing the morning light through the canopy, or simply sitting in silence beneath a thousand-year-old tree, Portola Redwoods offers a gift few places can: the quiet awe of nature’s endurance.

So lace up your boots, fill your water bottle, and head out. The giants are waiting.