El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve

➤ Hike Description: Step into the heart of history on an 8.7-mile trek through El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve, with a 1,300-foot elevation gain 50% of the time on packed earth single track and 50% of the time on double-track fire roads. Named for its logging past, “El Corte de Madera” (Spanish for “The Cutting of Wood”), this 2,891-acre preserve, saved from logging by Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District since 1982, safeguards second growth redwood and oak groves once ravaged by axes, now a haven for wildlife.

This journey centers on the tragic legacy of Resolution BCPA Flight 304, a British Commonwealth Pacific Airlines Douglas DC-6 that crashed on May 12, 1953, killing all 19 aboard due to severe weather and navigational errors. The sole Vista Point of this hike, near the memorial, marks where a military H-19 ‘Chickasaw’ helicopter first landed that day to begin recovery efforts, the Resolution’s wreckage is still visible further along the trail in a somber reminder of early aviation challenges.

We’ll also marvel at the Tafoni Sandstone formation’s unique honeycomb patterns from a viewing platform, a geological contrast to the human story. Though the creeks lie silent this late in summer, savor their rugged canyon cuts amid the redwoods. Bring sturdy shoes, ample water, and a spirit of reverence for both nature and history.

➤ Post-Hike Celebration: We invite you to join us after the hike for a festive tailgate potluck gathering at the area adjacent to and west of the parking lot. Come trade trail stories, and good company around the majestic redwoods.

➤ Route: From the El Corte de Madera Creek Parking Lot — Sierra Morena Trail 1.7 — Fir Trail 1.1 — Resolution Trail 1.1 — El Corte de Madera Creek Trail 0.6 — Tafoni Trail 2.3 — Fir Trail 0.2 — Sierra Morena Trail 1.7 to trailhead parking lot.

You can view or download the route using the following links:

GAIA GPS or AllTrails

Online Park map at: Midpeninsula Regional Open Space

➤ Restrooms: Vault toilets are available at the trailhead. There is no potable water.

➤ Exposure: The route is approximately 90% covered under mixed oak and redwood forest 10% exposed along open hillside trails. Be prepared for variable weather due to a marine influence. See the weather forecast on Weather Underground.

➤ Cell Phone Coverage: Expect limited coverage throughout the route.

➤ Directions/Parking: We meet at the El Corte de Madera Creek parking lot, 2.8 miles north of the junction of state routes 35 and 84 on SR35 (Skyline Blvd). Parking is free.

GPS Coordinates:
37.399511, -122.295438 or 37°23'58.2"N 122°17'43.6"W

View trailhead location on Google Maps or Apple Maps

➤ Attendance Requirements: This is a Sierra Club backcountry outing requiring a completed paper Outings Medical Form. This form can be downloaded from the Sierra Club website. Bring this form with you.

➤ Park website: El Corte de Madera Creek Preserve

➤ Bring: Medical form completed, lunch, water, a sit-upon for lunch, warm layers and poles if you use them, sun protection, and a sparkling personality for the potluck if you’re staying.

➤ Safety: A safety meeting will be held before the hike begins. You hike at your own risk. The nearest EMS is located at San Mateo Fire Station 58, 2.8 mile south on CA35. In case of emergency, call 911.

➤ Sierra Club Guidelines: We encourage responsible hiking practices, adhering to Leave No Trace principles to minimize our impact on the environment. Neither vaccinations nor masks are required.

These hikes are sponsored by the Sierra Pathfinders an outings section of the Sierra Club Loma Prieta Chapter. We encourage you to join the Sierra Club if you are not a member. For a list of all hikes offered by Sierra Club's Loma Prieta Chapter, please visit the online calendar.