Djerassi Resident Artists Program, located in the Santa Cruz Mountains one hour south of San Francisco, makes its majestic 583-acre ranch available to the public on a very limited basis. The hikes feature site-inspired sculptures created and donated by artists during its 37-year history.
Web Page: djerassi.org
Location: 2325 Bear Gulch Road, Woodside, CA 94062
Directions: Bear Gulch Road is a narrow, winding, one lane country road with two-way traffic. It has a number of permanent residences. Watch for turn-offs and wider areas to accommodate oncoming traffic. Be prepared to back up if necessary. Vehicles going up hill on a steep grade and those pulling trailers have the legal right of way.
Directions from San Francisco
(estimated driving time: 1 - 1 1/2 hour)
South on 280 exit Bunker Hill Dr. turn left at the end of ramp to 92. Turn right on 92 towards Half Moon Bay.or South on 101 exit west on 92 towards Half Moon Bay.
Turn left (south) on 35 (Skyline Blvd.). Drive 10 miles. Turn right (west) on Bear Gulch Road West.
From San Jose
(estimated driving time: 1 hour)
North on 280 or 101 exit 84 (Woodside Road) towards Woodside to Skyline Blvd. Turn right (north) on 35 (Skyline Blvd.) drive for 2.2 miles. Turn left (west) on Bear Gulch Road West.
From Palo Alto, Menlo Park, and Stanford
(estimated driving time: 45 minutes)
West on Sand Hill Road to Portola Road. Turn right on Portola then left on 84 (La Honda/Woodside Road) to Skyline Blvd. Turn right (north) on 35 (Skyline Blvd.) drive for 2.2 miles. Turn left (west) on Bear Gulch Road West.
From Santa Cruz
(estimated driving time: 1 1/2 hour)
North on Highway 1. Turn right on Highway 84 (La Honda/Woodside Road) to Skyline Blvd. Turn left (north) on 35 (Skyline Blvd.) drive for 2.2 miles. Turn left (west) on Bear Gulch Road West.
Once on Bear Gulch Road
Stay to the right at fork with Allen Road. After 2 miles, turn left at “SMIP Ranch” sign and proceed through tall black gates. Follow road for 1.5 miles to the Artists’ Barn. Park in designated areas.
Additional Information: Participants should bring water, sunscreen, sturdy shoes, lunch and normal precautions against poison oak exposure (work gloves, long sleeved shirts and long pants). The Trail Center provides tools, training, gloves, and refreshments after the workday.