Portola Redwoods has a rugged, natural basin forested with Coast Redwoods, Douglas Firs and Live Oaks. There are eighteen miles of trails, a 53 site campground, four group campsites and two beautiful creeks, the Pescadero and Peter''s Creek, that run throughout the park.
The Sequoia Nature Trail, which leads to the Pescadero Creek, introduces visitors to the natural history of the area.
Visitors should come prepared for any type of weather. The park receives between 40 and 60 inches of rain per year and the summer months can be foggy and cool. Layered clothing is recommended at any time of the year.
Location: Portola Redwoods State Park, San Mateo County, California - Upper Coyote Ridge Trail (northern end)
Directions: From Highway 35, turn west onto Alpine Road. From the point at which you start on Alpine Rd. from Skyline Blvd., go 3.4 miles to a Y-intersection. At this intersection, DO NOT follow the sign to the left towards Portola Redwoods SP. Instead, bear right, continuing on Alpine Rd. for another 0.4 mile to the junction with Buffalo Valley Drive. At that point, continue STRAIGHT onto Camp Pomponio Rd. (you'll see a sign for Pescadero Creek County Park) which becomes narrow and rough, for 0.9 mile until reaching the gravel Tarwater Trailhead Parking lot on the left side of the road.
View destination on Google maps
Due to mountain roads, expect a 1 to 1 1/2 hour drive from most Bay Area locations. There is no gasoline available at or near the park. There is no store in or near the park.
Agency: California State Parks - Chris Pereira, Supervising Ranger
Supervisor: Judd Volino
Project Lead: Judd Volino
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.
Assemble at 8:30 a.m. for our safety talk and crew assignments. Work begins at 9:00 a.m.
Park Home Page (external link)