PURISIMA-COWELL TRAIL – New Spectacular Coastal Trail near Half Moon Bay, CA
One would not expect such a varied, inspiring trail along the ocean – the only one of it’s kind we’ve come across to date. Beautiful Wildflowers in July, spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, rows of farming, seal preserves and even a ‘subterranean’ hike along the way all are features of this newish Coastal Trail, established in 2011. Not to be conofused, There’s another nearby inland ‘Purisima’ Trail that climbs through a dark fern grove but we enjoyed this trail. And, it’s manageable for most people – fairly level and roughly 3 miles each way and accessible by foot or bike. Kudos to the governmental agency responsible for this great new addition to the San Francisco Bay Area’s growing treasure of trails, whether coastal, ridge or parkland.
GETTING THERE: Go South on Highway 1, roughly four miles from Half Moon Bay and look for ‘Cowell-Purimisa Trail’ or ‘Open Space’ on the right. Drive about one-half mile to the staging area, which includes a restroom.
vista point at left (optional)
BEGIN TRAIL – GO RIGHT TO CONTINUE TRAIL 3 MILES
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| Get Ready to drop down into beautiful subterranean portion of trail |
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| Back on higher ground trail, following miles of unlikely coastal farmlands! |
Wildflowers abound – in July!
END OF MAIN TRAIL, TAKE AN EXTENSION DOWN TO BEAUTIFUL BEACH and/or
RETURN BACK THE WAY YOU CAME 3 MILES BACK TO STAGING AREA
LAST LOOK
