Experience the delight of discovering early spring wildflowers with docent naturalists Laura Levin, Dennis Smith, and Mary Brunkhorst. Descending through chaparral into redwood forest at a leisurely pace, you'll travel along the Schilling Lake and Bridle Trails, losing and then gaining 400 feet of elevation on this leisurely-paced out-and-back hike. If seasonal timing allows, you'll be treated to a blooming display of fetid adder's tongue near your shaded creekside lunch spot. (Note: Arrive early as parking is limited as this location.) Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after January 19 and close February 1 at 2:00 p.m.
Meet at the Thornewood Parking Area on La Honda Road. From I-280, take the Highway 84/Woodside Road exit. Follow Highway 84/Woodside Road through Woodside and then to a junction with Portola Road at 3.3. miles. Bear right to stay on Highway 84, now La Honda Road. At 4.9 miles from Highway 280, turn left at a brick wall marked 895-897; look for the Midpen sign just inside this gate. The small parking area is on the right about 500 feet from the entrance gate. Please do not drive beyond this lot toward the private residences.
Alternatively, from the junction of Highway 35 (Skyline Boulevard) and Highway 84 in Sky Londa, take Highway 84/La Honda Road north 1.9 miles and turn right at the brick wall marked 895-897.