Thornewood Open Space Preserve

Thornewood Open Space Preserve is a protected natural area in the Santa Cruz Mountains featuring Douglas fir and coast redwood forests alongside oak woodlands. The land is crossed by maintained hiking paths that wind through different forest types and connect to scenic spots within the property.

The property dates to 1908 when Julian Thorne acquired the land and later built a summer home on the site. Over time the estate transitioned into public conservation hands, becoming the protected nature area visitors see today.

The preserve maintains a close connection to California land heritage as part of the former Rancho Cañada de Raymundo, linking present-day conservation with regional history.

The preserve has two main walking routes: one path winds through forested sections while the other leads to a natural water feature. Both trails are well-marked and suit visitors of varying fitness levels, though sturdy footwear and attention to trail conditions are recommended.

The water feature at the preserve is actively transforming through natural processes, gradually shifting from open water into a wetland meadow and eventually toward forest. This ongoing change demonstrates how ecosystems evolve when left to their own pace.

Location: San Mateo County

Part of: Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District

Website: http://openspace.org/preserves/pr_thornewood.asp

GPS coordinates: 37.39080,-122.25900

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:05