The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District calls La Honda Creek one of its largest and most diverse preserves. It offers historic ranchland with grazing cattle, views of the San Mateo County coast and the Santa Cruz Mountains, and pockets of redwood forest. Since opening to the public in 2017, it has become a regional birding destination.

A long time coming

Wikipedia says the preserve was established in 1984 but stayed closed to the public for years. The Ohlone people were indigenous to the area, and in the 1800s the land became part of Rancho San Gregorio. Logging began in 1865, and remains of sawmills are still in the preserve.

Trails

Midpen says the connected trail system totals more than 17 miles. Hiking and horseback riding are allowed on all trails; mountain biking and dog walking only on designated ones. Highlights include:

  • Big Tree: A one-mile trail in upper La Honda Creek to one of the few old-growth redwoods left in the area.
  • Easy access trail: A 1.3-mile route through ranchland, coastal grassland, oak woodland and redwoods.
  • Harrington Creek Trail: A six-mile out-and-back through rolling grassland with very little shade, so bring water and sun protection.

Two historic barns

The red barn along Highway 84 was built around 1900 by the Weeks family. Midpen says it hosts the only known pallid bat maternity roost on the Peninsula, plus Townsend's big-eared bats. A white barn along the Cielo Trail predates 1860, and Midpen repaired it in 2023.

Parking and permits

  • Sears Ranch Road: The main lot, with 23 spaces and no horse trailers, off Highway 84 in La Honda.
  • Allen Road (upper preserve) and the Event Center: Both need a free permit, which Midpen says to request at least 48 hours ahead.

Cattle and dogs

La Honda Creek is one of only two Midpen preserves where visitors share trails with grazing cattle. Leave large gates as you find them and close pedestrian gates. Dogs are allowed only on the Grasshopper Loop Trail and in upper La Honda Creek. Grasshopper Loop is closed to dogs from Aug. 1 to about Dec. 15 for calving season, though it stays open to hikers.