Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve, Nature reserve in San Mateo County, California, US.
Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve is a large forest conservation area in the coastal mountains with coast redwoods and hardwood forests. An extensive network of walking paths runs through the land, connecting different forest types and elevation zones.
The area was used for timber harvesting for many years before being put under protection. Establishing this preserve allowed the forest to recover and return to its natural state.
The old logging roads that once served industrial purposes now form walking paths where visitors experience the forest in a different way. You feel the connection between the area's industrial past and how it is used today.
The main entrance is located in the southern hills, with parking right at the start of the paths. The area is open year-round, though the ground can be slippery after rain.
The terrain features steep elevation changes, with fog in the valleys and sunny ridges, creating dramatic temperature shifts during a single walk. This geographic variation creates completely different forest types within short distances.
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