TWO HIKES @ SAM McDONALD: HERITAGE & OLD STAGE LOOPS + LUNCH + BEACH

This whole area is just amazing! After the hike(s), we will try to go to Duarte's restaurant in Pescadero but they take no reservations. HOWEVER, Pescadero is a cute little town with lots of charm and places to check AND a BEACH! If we cannot get into the restaurant, we just get a sandwich and walk to the beach (be with me on this one, never have done it before, guiney pigs we all are)
ABOUT CHARMING PESCADERO TOWN

SAM McDONAL PARK is absolutely gorgeous! Redwoods everywhere! Shade, shade, shade surrounded by serene peace! You will love it!

This hike is actually two hikes together for a total grand prize of 7.5 miles with low/medium elevation. The first part of the hike is 3 miles (744 ft elevation) and takes us back to the parking area. Those who wish not to continue the remaining 4.5 miles (905 ft) can decide to stay and wait.

CARPOOLING:
Add yourself as a driver or passenger. It is important to ask if your passengers will stay fro lunch.
http://www.groupcarpool.com/t/v5mfzk

PARKING FEE: $6.00

ABOUT THE HIKE:
We are kind of doing two hikes: First hike is 3.0 miles and the second one is 4.5 miles. You can hike the first one and leave or wait for us. It is a gorgeous place to be if you are waiting. Bring a book or a craft and enjoy the amazing redwoods. Who knows? Depending on how my back feels I may join you while Craig leads the second part of the hike! ( I am still working on a scarf for my granddaughter!)
https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/california/heritage-grove-loop-trail?mobileMap=false&ref=sidebar-static-map
AND
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/old-stage-rd-to-uncle-man-rd-to-youth-camp-trail

MILES: ABOUT 7.5 MILES (first part is 3.0 miles, second part is 4.5 miles)

ELEVATION: 744 (first 3 miles) 905 FT (last 4.5 miles)

ABOUT THE PARK
Sam McDonald, a unique and interesting 850-acre facility, is located approximately 3 miles west of La Honda on Pescadero Road. The park actually represents contrast between two separate natural environments. The northwesternly half, near 400 acres between Pescadero Road and Highway 84, is principally a lush growth redwood forest. The 450-acre portion, southeasterly , is primarily open ridge, grassy knolls and patchy brush areas. From this ridge area, vistas of the Butano and Skyline Ridges, and the Pacific Ocean can be seen.

RESTAURANT: They take no reservations BUT if we cannot get in, we can go to the beautiful stores in Pescadero, get a sandwich and eat at the beach.
DUARTE'S TAVERN
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