Weekend Ride Guide (SF Edition) – Purisima Creek

Hellooo Summer!

With the temps now on the rise, and dry trail conditions, I thought it would be useful to profile a cool, forested, dirt climb through the Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve. Located just South of Half Moon Bay off of Higgins Creek Road, this County park is both legal and illegal for cyclists. There are a few main fire road trails, which are legal to all. But, begrudgingly, any single-track in Purisima is a no-go (and tickets are far too expensive, trust me). That said, if you find yourself riding the coastline on a road or a cross-bike, and want an exciting new route up and over the costal range, I highly recommend this park.

The particular trail I’m talking about is the main event – the Purisima Creek Trail. It starts at the bottom (Western) entrance to the park, follows along Purisima Creek, and continues onward and upward all the way to Skyline Road. Once through the gate, you have roughy 2 miles at a modest 4-5% to enjoy the creek, the strikingly green forest, the bridge-crossing, and all the little critters. But after that, the true challenge begins as Purisima Creek Trail turns into a dirt stairmaster. 10%-15% sections are no joke to begin with (and Purisima has several on the way up), but the dirt trail means no flailing out of the saddle. Strong, smooth pedal strokes only. It’s a bear of a climb; but we’re cyclists! Suffering comes with the territory. Once you reach the pavement again, its less than a half-mile south to Kings Mountain Road for a fast, fun decent into Woodside. Enjoy!