Sam McDonald/Pescadero Creek County Park Hike

➤ Hike Description: Moderate 7.8 miles, 1,560 ft elevation gain, scenic loop hike on well-maintained trails. Leisurely to moderate pace (approximately 2–2.5 mph with breaks).

Our journey takes us through the majestic sanctuary envisioned by Emanuel B. "Sam" McDonald, true local pioneer, philanthropist, and conservationist. The grandson of enslaved people, Sam became a beloved fixture on the Peninsula and the first Black administrator at Stanford University. In the early 1900s, he fell in love with the peace of the Santa Cruz Mountains and began quietly acquiring land to protect it from logging.

When he passed away in 1957, he didn't sell the land to developers; he bequeathed his entire redwood sanctuary to a convalescent home for children so they could find peace in nature.

Today, this pristine forest forms the northern section of the Pescadero Creek County Park Complex. On our loop, we will walk beneath the giant trees he saved and visit the historic site of his cabin, Chee-Chee-Wa-Wa (Little Squirrel).

➤ A Note on Stewardship & Hope: July 12 marks International Day of Hope, a day dedicated to environmental awareness and community well-being. Walking through these woods, it is impossible not to feel that hope in action. Sam McDonald viewed these ancient coast redwoods as the "lords of the forest" and designated his land as a safe refuge for both wildlife and people. As we breathe the crisp morning air beneath the canopy, we are directly enjoying the fruits of one individual's profound dedication to long-term land stewardship.

➤ Post-Hike Dinner: We invite you to join us after the hike for a festive tailgate potluck at the picnic tables to the southeast of the parking lot. We will provide pizza, smoked salmon, shrimp, garlic bread, and mimosas. If you would like to contribute, salads, desserts, or sides are always welcome. It is a perfect opportunity to swap trail stories and enjoy good company.

➤ Route: From Sam McDonald Parking Lot:

• Youth Camp Trail - 0.4 miles
• Uncle Man Road - 0.2 miles
• Old Stage Trail - 2.1 miles
• Ridge Fire Road - 0.7 miles
• Jack Brook Horse Camp (Lunch Break) – 0.1 miles
• Towne Fire Road – 0.7 miles
• Heritage Grove Trail – 3.6 miles

A detailed route map and recent scouting photos are included in the Meetup photos. You can view and download the route map on: Gaia GPS or AllTrails

Online Park PDF map at: San Mateo County Parks or pick up a paper copy when you pay your parking fee.

➤ Restrooms: Flush toilets and water are available at the trailhead and at the lunch location (Jack Brook Horse Camp).

➤ Exposure: The route is approximately 80% shaded under mixed redwood forest, 20% exposed through grasslands. See the weather forecast on Weather Underground.

➤ Cell Phone Coverage: Coverage is spotty along the route. Expect limited cell service, especially in canyons.

➤ Carpools: We’ve set up a dedicated carpool page to make ride-sharing simple and convenient. Please visit: https://groupcarpool.com/t/8im4y0 to offer or request a ride.

You can also post a request in the Meetup comments if you prefer, but please reply privately to the person offering.

➤ Directions/Parking: We meet at the Sam McDonald County Park Parking Area, 13435 Pescadero Creek Rd, Loma Mar, CA 94021. Parking is $6 exact change via the Iron Ranger.

GPS: 37.296579, -122.265522 (37°17'47.7"N 122°15'55.9"W)

Google Maps or Apple Maps or Waze

➤ Park website: Sam McDonald Park

➤ Bring: Snacks, water, sun, wind and tick protection, a sit-upon for lunch, warm layers, sturdy boots and poles if you use them, sparkling personality for potluck if you’re staying.

➤ Attendance: Please be ready to hike at the scheduled start time (9:00 AM). This is an independent hike organized by experienced leaders. Participants assume all risks and are responsible for their own safety and fitness level.

➤ Leaders: Kurt Leal | kurt.leal@comcast.net | (831) 704-6855
Joan Freed | joanfreed@mac.com | (408) 656-1356

➤ Cancellation Policy: We hike rain or shine, including in adverse weather. We will be at the trailhead at the scheduled time and the hike will proceed as planned.

Decide for yourself whether the conditions are right for you. If you prefer to stay home due to the weather (or for any other reason), there is absolutely no problem, simply edit your attendance to "Not going."

➤Safety: Both leaders are certified Wilderness First Responders (WFR) and Basic Life Support providers. We will hold a safety meeting prior to the hike. The nearest EMS is located at La Honda Fire Brigade, which is 2.3 miles away. In an emergency call 911. A payphone is available in the parking lot.