Portola Redwoods State Park: A Complete Guide
If you’re looking to experience the beauty of California’s redwoods in a quiet, serene setting, Portola Redwoods State Park is a hidden gem worth exploring. Situated in the Santa Cruz Mountains, this park offers a peaceful retreat with towering redwoods, flowing creeks, and miles of hiking trails. Let’s dive into the details of this tranquil park, so you can plan your next adventure!
Table of Contents
Overview
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- Address: 9000 Portola State Park Road, La Honda, CA 94020
- Entrance Fee: $10 per vehicle
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM- 5:00 PM – Sunset (daily)
- Parking Fee: Included in the entrance fee ($10)
- Phone: +1 650-948-9098
- When to Go: Spring, summer, and fall for best weather; winter for fewer crowds.
- Nearest Bus Stop: None close to the park; driving is recommended.
- Nearest Railway Station: Palo Alto Caltrain Station, about 25 miles away.
- Nearest Airport: San Carlos (SQL) Airport which is 7.8 miles away.
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Map
History of Portola Redwoods State Park
Portola Redwoods State Park, established in 1945, covers over 2,800 acres of dense forest and features some of the tallest trees in the world: coast redwoods. The park is located about 50 miles south of San Francisco and 17 miles west of the town of Redwood City. Due to its somewhat remote location, it’s less crowded than other parks like Muir Woods, making it an excellent spot for those who want a quieter experience.
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How to Reach Portola Redwoods State Park
Portola Redwoods State Park is located in the Santa Cruz Mountains, about 50 miles south of San Francisco and around 17 miles west of Redwood City. Here’s how you can get there:
1. By Car
- From San Francisco: Take Highway 280 south toward Redwood City. Exit onto Highway 84 (Woodside Road) and continue west. Turn left onto Skyline Boulevard (Highway 35) and then turn right onto Alpine Road. Follow the signs to the park entrance.
- Drive Time: Around 1.5 hours
- From San Jose: Take Highway 280 north. Exit onto Page Mill Road and head west. Turn right onto Skyline Boulevard (Highway 35), and then take a left onto Alpine Road. Continue until you reach the park.
- Drive Time: About 1 hour
2. By Public Transportation
There is no direct public transportation to Portola Redwoods State Park. The nearest public transit options stop several miles away, so driving is the most convenient way to access the park.
3. Road Conditions
The roads leading to the park, particularly Alpine Road, are narrow and winding, so drive carefully. Watch out for sharp turns and be prepared for limited cell phone service along the way.
Route:
From San Francisco: San Francisco → Highway 280 South → Highway 84 West → Skyline Blvd → Alpine Road → Portola Redwoods State Park.
From San Jose: San Jose → Highway 280 North → Page Mill Road → Skyline Blvd → Alpine Road → Portola Redwoods State Park.
Distance from the nearest cities:
- Distance from San Francisco: 50 miles (about 1.5-hour drive)
- Distance from San Jose: 35 miles (about 1-hour drive)
- Distance from Palo Alto: 25 miles (about 50-minute drive)
- Distance from Redwood City: 17 miles (about 40-minute drive)
- Distance from Half Moon Bay: 20 miles (about 45-minute drive)
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Things to do at Portola Redwoods State Park
The park offers a variety of activities that suit all kinds of nature lovers. Whether you’re into hiking, camping, or simply relaxing, there’s something for everyone.
a) Hiking
Portola Redwoods is a hiker’s paradise. The park has over 18 miles of trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging treks. Some of the popular trails include:
- Sequoia Nature Trail: A short, easy 1.2-mile loop that introduces you to the beauty of the redwoods and passes by Peters Creek, one of the park’s key features.
- Tiptoe Falls Trail: A gentle hike (1 mile round-trip) that leads to a small but picturesque waterfall. It’s great for families and younger children.
- Slate Creek Trail: For those seeking a longer and more challenging hike, the Slate Creek Trail (9.7 miles) takes you through diverse scenery, including streams, redwoods, and open meadows.
Hiking here is perfect in spring when the wildflowers bloom or in the summer when the weather is mild and the towering trees provide plenty of shade.
b) Camping
Portola Redwoods State Park Camping
Portola Redwoods State Park has 55 family campsites that are well-shaded and spaced out, giving visitors a feeling of seclusion. The campground is open from spring through fall, and it’s important to make reservations, especially on weekends and holidays, as sites fill up quickly.
There are also four hike-in campsites for those looking for more solitude. These are located about 3 miles from the main campground along the Slate Creek Trail.
Camping here means falling asleep to the sound of the wind in the trees and the nearby creeks, giving you a peaceful experience in nature.
c) Picnicking and Relaxation
If you’re just looking for a day trip, the park offers lovely picnic areas surrounded by trees. You can bring lunch and enjoy a quiet meal with a stunning view of nature.
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Wildlife and Plant Life
The park is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, squirrels, raccoons, and a variety of birds. If you’re lucky, you may even spot bobcats or coyotes from a safe distance. In the creeks, you might see salamanders and other aquatic life.
The true stars of the park are, of course, the redwood trees. These ancient giants can reach heights of over 300 feet and live for more than a thousand years. Their massive trunks and canopies create a cathedral-like atmosphere that is both humbling and awe-inspiring.
You’ll also find Douglas fir, madrone, and tan oak trees. Along the trails, particularly in the wetter areas, look out for ferns, mosses, and mushrooms, especially during the winter months when the forest comes alive with green.
Portola Redwoods State Park image
Popular & Historical Place in USA
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Best Time to Visit
Portola Redwoods State Park can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for:
- Spring: Ideal for wildflowers and lush greenery. This is also when the waterfalls are at their fullest.
- Summer: Perfect for camping, hiking, and escaping the heat of nearby cities.
- Fall: Enjoy cooler weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful fall foliage.
- Winter: Though parts of the park may be closed due to rain, winter offers a peaceful atmosphere, with mist often floating among the trees and fewer visitors.
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Tips for Your Visit
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- Bring Layers: The weather in the redwoods can be unpredictable. Even in the summer, mornings and evenings can be cool, so it’s wise to bring layers.
- Prepare for Limited Cell Service: Once you’re in the park, cell service is very limited, so be prepared to disconnect and enjoy nature.
- Pack Food and Water: The park does not have any stores or restaurants, so make sure to bring everything you need, including snacks and plenty of water.
- Respect the Wildlife: As always, it’s important to leave no trace and respect the wildlife. Don’t feed the animals, and be sure to clean up after yourself.
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Nearby Restaurant
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1. Nobu Restaurant Palo Alto
- Location: 180 Hamilton Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301
- Website: https://www.noburestaurants.com/
- Menu Highlights: Avocado Toast, Japanese Breakfast Bento, Fresh Mixed Berries, Mint
- Cost: $100+ per person
- Review: Rated 4.1 stars, praised for authentic flavors and inviting ambiance.
- Phone: +16505318800
2. Tom’s Depot
- Location: 991 Fremont Ave, Los Altos, CA 94024
- Menu Highlights: Hash Browns, Buttered Toast or English Muffin, Two eggs scrambled with Corned
- Cost: $10–20 per person
- Review: Rated 4.3 stars
- Phone: +16509488515
3. Dinah’s Poolside Restaurant
- Location: 4261 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA 94306
- Website: http://dinahshotel.com/
- Menu Highlights: Russet potato hash, Greek yogurt-honey, Mushrooms, spinach, onions, swiss, toast
- Cost: $20–30 per person
- Review: Rated 4.5 stars
- Phone: +16507981314
4. Loma Mar Store & Kitchen
- Location: 8150 Pescadero Creek Rd, Loma Mar, CA 94021
- Website: http://lomamarstore.com/
- Menu Highlights: 100% grass-fed beef from Leftcoast Grassfed with lettuce, tomato, and roasted garlic aioli on a brioche bun.
- Cost: $10–20 per person
- Review: Rated 4.8 stars
- Phone: +16508790203
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Nearby Hotels
If you’re planning a visit to Portola Redwoods State Park and looking for nearby accommodations, there are a few options ranging from cozy lodges to larger hotels. Since the park is located in a somewhat remote area, you won’t find hotels right next to the park, but there are several within a reasonable driving distance.
1. The Canyon Inn (about 10 miles away)
- Location: 6821 Fairlynn Blvd, Yorba Linda, CA 92886
- Overview: This charming inn offers a cozy and comfortable stay in the nearby town of Redwood City. It’s a small, family-run place with basic amenities, perfect for those who want a quiet place to rest after a day in the park.
- Distance from Portola Redwoods: ~20-minute drive
2. The Mountain House Lodge (about 12 miles away)
- Location: 23860 N 125th Pl, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
- Overview: Set in the beautiful Woodside area, this rustic lodge offers a peaceful retreat close to nature. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a quiet, scenic place to relax, with the charm of a mountain getaway.
- Distance from Portola Redwoods: ~25-minute drive
3. Rosewood Sand Hill (about 18 miles away)
- Location: 2825 Sand Hill Rd, Menlo Park, CA 94025
- Overview: For a more luxurious stay, Rosewood Sand Hill offers upscale accommodations with great service. This luxury hotel has a spa, fine dining, and beautiful grounds, perfect for relaxing after a day in nature.
- Distance from Portola Redwoods: ~35-minute drive
4. Half Moon Bay Lodge (about 20 miles away)
- Location:2400 Cabrillo Hwy S, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
- Overview: Located along the coast, this lodge is a comfortable option with spacious rooms and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s a bit further from the park, but it offers the bonus of being close to the beautiful beaches of Half Moon Bay.
- Distance from Portola Redwoods: ~40-minute drive
5. Stanford Park Hotel (about 25 miles away)
Stanford Park Hotel
- Location: 100 El Camino Real, Menlo Park, CA 94025
- Overview: If you prefer staying closer to a city, the Stanford Park Hotel in Palo Alto offers luxurious rooms and excellent amenities. It’s a little further from the park but closer to Silicon Valley’s restaurants, shopping, and other attractions.
- Distance from Portola Redwoods: ~45-minute drive
These hotels range from budget-friendly inns to luxury accommodations, so you can pick one that best fits your travel style. Most of these places will require a short scenic drive to the park, and you’ll get to experience a bit of both forest and coastal environments. Be sure to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, as the hotels near nature destinations can fill up quickly!
Popular Hotel & Resorts in USA
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Nearby Tourist Places
There are several interesting tourist spots located near Portola Redwoods State Park that you can explore to enhance your trip. These range from scenic coastal towns to historic landmarks and more redwood groves. Here’s a list of some of the best nearby attractions:
1. Big Basin Redwoods State Park (About 20 miles away)
- Overview: Big Basin is California’s oldest state park and home to some of the tallest and oldest redwoods. It’s known for its scenic hiking trails, such as the Berry Creek Falls Trail, which takes you through lush redwoods and past waterfalls.
- Why Visit?: If you want to see more massive redwoods and explore even more forested trails, Big Basin is a must-visit.
- Distance: ~35-minute drive
2. Half Moon Bay (About 20 miles away)
Half Moon Bay
- Overview: This charming coastal town is known for its scenic beaches, surfing spots, and the Half Moon Bay State Beach. You can also visit Pigeon Point Lighthouse, a picturesque spot along the coast.
- Why Visit?: Perfect for a relaxing afternoon by the ocean. Enjoy a picnic on the beach, explore the shops in town, or take a coastal hike along the Blufftop Coastal Park.
- Distance: ~40-minute drive
3. Pescadero State Beach and Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve (About 22 miles away)
- Overview: Located near the small town of Pescadero, this coastal area offers stunning ocean views, tide pools, and opportunities for birdwatching in the nearby marsh. The Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve is a great spot for nature lovers and photographers.
- Why Visit?: If you’re interested in coastal wildlife, this area provides a peaceful setting to spot herons, hawks, and other marsh animals.
- Distance: ~45-minute drive
4. Filoli Historic House and Gardens (About 18 miles away)
- Overview: Filoli is a beautiful historic estate and garden located in Woodside. It offers a glimpse into California’s Gilded Age, with expansive formal gardens, grand architecture, and scenic walking trails on the property.
- Why Visit?: The beautifully manicured gardens and impressive mansion make it a great place for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
- Distance: ~30-minute drive
5. Castle Rock State Park (About 15 miles away)
- Overview: Another nearby park in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Castle Rock is famous for its unique rock formations, scenic overlooks, and great hiking trails. The Castle Rock Trail offers panoramic views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Pacific Ocean.
- Why Visit?: If you enjoy rock climbing or want a different kind of outdoor experience, Castle Rock is a fantastic option.
- Distance: ~30-minute drive
6. Sanborn County Park (About 23.3 miles away)
- Overview: This peaceful park is known for its redwood groves and hiking trails, as well as a small camping area. It’s a less crowded alternative to some of the more popular parks in the region.
- Why Visit?: Sanborn offers similar redwood forest experiences but with fewer crowds. It’s great for a quieter hiking adventure.
- Distance: ~50-minute drive
7. Ano Nuevo State Park (About 30 miles away)
- Overview: Famous for its population of elephant seals, this coastal park is a fascinating place to visit, especially during the elephant seal breeding season (December to March). Guided tours are available to see these massive animals up close.
- Why Visit?: The chance to see elephant seals in their natural habitat is a rare and memorable experience.
- Distance: ~50-minute drive
8. The Tech Interactive (San Jose) (About 35 miles away)
- Overview: Located in downtown San Jose, this interactive science and technology museum is a fun stop for families and tech enthusiasts. The museum has hands-on exhibits that explore everything from space exploration to robotics.
- Why Visit?: If you want to break up your nature hikes with a bit of tech and science exploration, this museum is a great choice.
- Distance: ~50-minute drive
9. Stanford University and Campus (About 25 miles away)
- Overview: Stanford’s campus is one of the most beautiful in the country, with its stunning architecture and public spaces. You can visit Hoover Tower, Stanford Memorial Church, and the Cantor Arts Center (which houses a large collection of art, including works by Auguste Rodin).
- Why Visit?: For a mix of history, art, and education, the Stanford campus is a beautiful place to spend a few hours.
- Distance: ~45-minute drive
10. Downtown Los Gatos (About 25 miles away)
Downtown Los Gatos
- Overview: Los Gatos is a charming small town with boutique shops, cafes, and a historic downtown area. It’s a great place to stop for lunch or stroll around after visiting the nearby parks.
- Why Visit?: It’s a quaint and relaxing place for shopping, dining, and simply enjoying the small-town vibe.
- Distance: ~45-minute drive
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Conclusion
Portola Redwoods State Park is a beautiful, serene escape into nature that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re camping under the redwoods, hiking along peaceful trails, or simply enjoying a picnic in the shade, the park provides a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Its quiet, uncrowded atmosphere makes it a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy the majesty of California’s redwoods in a peaceful setting.
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FAQs About Portola Redwoods State Park
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Q: Where is Portola Redwoods State Park located?
A: In the Santa Cruz Mountains, about 50 miles south of San Francisco.
Q: What is the best time to visit?
A: Visit in spring for wildflowers, summer for camping, fall for cooler weather, and winter for fewer crowds.
Q: How much is the entrance fee?
A: The day-use fee is usually around $10 per vehicle.
Q: Can I camp there?
A: Yes, there are 55 family campsites and 4 hike-in sites. Reservations recommended.
Q: What are the best hikes?
A: Popular trails include Sequoia Nature Trail, Tiptoe Falls Trail, and Slate Creek Trail.
Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Yes, but only in designated areas and on a 6-foot leash. No pets on trails.
Q: Is there cell service?
A: Cell service is limited, so plan for no connectivity.
Q: Are there picnic areas?
A: Yes, the park has picnic areas under the redwoods.
Q: Are there hotels nearby?
A: Yes, options include hotels in Redwood City, Half Moon Bay, and other nearby towns.
Q: Can I see wildlife?
A: Yes, you may spot deer, squirrels, raccoons, and occasionally bobcats or coyotes.
Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Occasional ranger-led programs are offered in summer.
Q: What should I pack?
A: Bring layers, water, snacks, hiking shoes, and a map due to limited cell service.
Q: What other attractions are nearby?
A: Visit Big Basin Redwoods, Half Moon Bay, Pescadero Beach, or Filoli Gardens.
