Here are Some Memorable Hikes Within Your 15 Supported Coastside State Parks
The Trail that Links the Parks
The Coastal Trail that runs from the bluffs next to Half Moon Bay Golf Links in the south to Pillar Point Harbor to the north is one of the most popular, beautiful and well-loved paths on the San Mateo County Coast.
Butano State Park and Gazos Creek State Beach
Visit two State Parks in a day with a lunch stop in between. Start with a hike through redwood groves in Butano State Park and end with a stroll on the beach in this two-park plus lunch adventure.
McNee Ranch Loop
McNee Ranch is full of stunning trails. Start with a challenge and end with the perfect picnic.
Franklin Point Loop
Enjoy this 6.5 mile in-and-out hike from Gazos Creek State Beach to Cascade Creek via Franklin Point and the Atkinson Bluff Trail.
Cowell Purisima Trail
Open in 2011, the Cowell-Purisima trail provides views of local farms, harbor seals, and untouched beaches.
Burleigh Murray Ranch State Park
Burleigh Murray Ranch State Park is the least known and most under appreciated state park in San Mateo County. Mills Creek tumbles more than a thousand feet down the steep western slopes of Cahill Ridge and then meanders through a broad valley and past a historic barn as it approaches the park entrance on Higgins Canyon Road.
Hiking to the Top of Montara Mountain
Montara Mountain, in the northern Santa Cruz Mountains, rises abruptly from the Pacific Ocean near Pacifica. At an elevation of 1,898 feet it offers spectacular views, an abundance of ecological diversity, and some great hiking opportunities.
Looking for a less crowded coastal hiking trail?
Trail maps invite one to explore. On a sunny Tuesday in late January your correspondent, when weary of sheltering from the omicron virus’ winter surge, chose to accept such an invitation after scanning Año Nuevo State Park’s official brochure and its trail map. (Originally published March 13, 2022)
