El Corte de Madera - Cool Shade and Highlights
Details
******* *IMPORTANT! **
**********PLEASE READ ALL INFORMATION SO THAT YOU ARE ADEQUATELY PREPARED AND COMFORTABLE WITH THE STATED LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY**
**Just off Skyline Boulevard in Woodside, the El Corte De Madera Creek Open Space Preserve contains nearly 3,000-acres of dense redwood forest and chaparral-dotted hillsides. It was once clear-cut in the late 1800’s but still has one of the largest groves of old growth redwoods. The lush forest makes the preserve especially nice for hikers on warm sunny days. We'll see many types of trees, including buckeyes, oaks and redwoods while hiking in their cool shade. Also along our route we'll visit a rare Tafoni sandstone formation. The world-famous, 1,800-year old Methuselah Tree can also be found here. Our route: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/el-corte-de-madera-cool-shade-and-highlights-large-loop-18f67ba?u=i&sh=gi7zbr**
Effort: DIFFICULT (see photo below) Length: 13.75 miles
Elevation gain: 2680 ft Time: 5 1/2 hours Route type: Loop
We will park at the El Corte de Madera Creek Preserve Parking Area off Skyline Blvd and begin our hike from there. My map pin below should get you there. Carpooling is advised as spaces are limited.
There are bathrooms at our trailhead.
Weather forecast is sunshine!!! with temperatures low 60s to low 70s.
Bring water, snacks, tick/poison oak protection, hiking/trail shoes with good tread, any anticipated first aid needs and your love for adventure!
Safety**: Please keep in mind that you attend these events at your own risk and you are ultimately responsible for your own safety.**
Take a few moments and refer to the frequently updated Soquel SoleMates Hiking Group general description ("What We're About") for important information about this group. Soquel Soulmates Hiking Group
https://www.meetup.com/soquel-solemates-hiking-group/
I hope to see you there!
Jill :)