Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve - Image 1
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Edgewood Park and Natural Preserve

4.7
·1k reviews·Redwood City, United States

467 acres of diverse woodlands & grasslands, famous for its challenging 'Hill,' spring wildflowers, and scenic Bay Area views.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wildflowers & cooler temps

CrowdMedium
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Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve - Image 1

Edgewood Park and Natural Preserve

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wildflowers & cooler temps

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

467 acres of diverse woodlands & grasslands, famous for its challenging 'Hill,' spring wildflowers, and scenic Bay Area views.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"Spectacular views from the ridge trail across Bear Island all the way to Mount Diablo. Awesome spot."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear sturdy shoes

Trails can be hilly and unpaved, so good footwear is essential for comfort and safety.

💧 Bring water

Stay hydrated, especially when tackling 'The Hill' or hiking during warmer months.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Hill

The Hill

Central trails

Legendary training ground for athletes. A steep, rewarding challenge with panoramic views.

Wildflower Blooms

Wildflower Blooms

Various meadows and open areas

Vibrant carpets of colorful wildflowers paint the landscape in spring. A photographer's dream.

Ridge Trail Views

Ridge Trail Views

Ridge Trail

Spectacular vistas of the Bay Area, Bear Island, and Mount Diablo. Perfect for a scenic break.

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Planning Your Visit

Conquer The Hill

Test your endurance on 'The Hill,' famously used by athletes like Jerry Rice. Prepare for a challenging incline that offers a serious workout and bragging rights. It's a must-do for fitness enthusiasts visiting Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve. Reddit

Spring Wildflower Spectacle

Visit in early spring for a breathtaking display of wildflowers. The park transforms into a vibrant tapestry of colors, attracting photographers and nature lovers alike. Catching this seasonal bloom is a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Wildflowers & cooler temps
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, pleasant breeze
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Best thing to do in RWC

👟 Wear sturdy shoes

Trails can be hilly and unpaved, so good footwear is essential for comfort and safety. Reddit

💧 Bring water

Stay hydrated, especially when tackling 'The Hill' or hiking during warmer months. Reddit

reddit.com

Has anyone had experience running The Hill?

reddit.com

Apparently Jerry Rice used to run a 2-mile Edgewood Park hike in Redwood City every day to stay in NFL shape. Going to have to give this a try.

📸 Camera ready!

Capture stunning wildflower displays and panoramic Bay Area views. Reddit

🐶 No dogs allowed

Remember that pets are not permitted in the preserve. Reddit

reddit.com

Quarter life crisis - Give me places to visit

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear sturdy shoes

Trails can be hilly and unpaved, so good footwear is essential for comfort and safety. Reddit

💧 Bring water

Stay hydrated, especially when tackling 'The Hill' or hiking during warmer months. Reddit

📸 Camera ready!

Capture stunning wildflower displays and panoramic Bay Area views. Reddit

🐶 No dogs allowed

Remember that pets are not permitted in the preserve. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve for its diverse landscapes, from woodlands to grasslands, and the spectacular wildflower displays in spring. The challenging 'Hill' and scenic Ridge Trail views are major highlights, offering a great workout and beautiful vistas. Some note the proximity of highway noise in certain areas and the unpaved, hilly nature of trails, which may pose challenges for those with mobility issues.

"Awesome park with several interconnected trails available to explore. Amazing wildflowers in spring and so many lizards everywhere! Nice mixture of bedrocks and soils means there are multiple types of areas to see - from grasslands to woods and chaparral. Spectacular views from the ridge trail across Bear Island all the way to Mount Diablo. Awesome spot."

Helen Marquis

"Well maintained trails, choices of either covered or uncovered routes, and a variety of slopes. Beautiful views of San Mateo County and the Bay Area."

Benedict Pedro

"Yes, during certain parts of the hike, you will hear the highway. But it is a beautiful hike it does have shaded and forest areas, open areas, and it does have wildflowers, especially if you catch it early spring. It's just the right amount of exercise. It does get warm at the top, but there is a lovely Breeze. Plenty of little Critters and birds. I love how it's local, oh, and did I mention it smells beautiful up there. I gave it five because if it's locality and it's 4 miles great for a short day trip."

Heidi Brogan

What People Like

Beautiful wildflower displays
Challenging 'The Hill'
Scenic Bay Area views

What People Dislike

Highway noise in areas
Hilly, unpaved trails

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve is accessible by car, with a main parking lot located off Edgewood Drive in Redwood City. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is generally recommended. Reddit

Yes, there is a parking lot near the main entrance. However, it can get crowded on weekends, so arriving early is advised. Reddit

Yes, you can use 'Edgewood Park and Natural Preserve' or its address in your GPS. Be aware that some navigation apps might direct you to different entrances, so confirm you're heading to the main lot. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve is free to enter and explore. Enjoy the natural beauty without any admission cost. Reddit

The park is generally open from sunrise to sunset. It's always a good idea to check local park advisories for any specific closures or changes in hours. Reddit

No advance booking is required as the park is free to enter. You can visit anytime during its operating hours. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Popular trails include 'The Hill' for a challenge, the Ridge Trail for scenic views, and various interconnected paths offering diverse landscapes from grasslands to woodlands. Reddit

No, many of the paths are unpaved and can be hilly, making them potentially difficult for those with mobility issues. Sturdy footwear is recommended. Reddit

Visitors often spot lizards, various birds, and sometimes even coyotes. The diverse habitats support a rich array of local wildlife. Reddit

Yes, it's a great spot for families, offering educational opportunities about habitats and wildlife. However, the hilly terrain might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility concerns. Reddit

Yes, there are picnic tables available, particularly near the main parking lot, making it a nice spot for a family outing. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Ridge Trail offers stunning panoramic views of the Bay Area, while the meadows are ideal for capturing the vibrant wildflower blooms in spring. Reddit

Early mornings and late afternoons provide softer light, ideal for landscape and wildlife photography. Spring mornings are perfect for wildflowers. Reddit

A versatile lens for landscapes and wildlife, along with a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions or capturing distant views, would be beneficial. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve is a fantastic destination for families looking for an educational and active outing. The park's diverse habitats offer a great opportunity for children to learn about local wildlife and ecosystems. Reddit While the trails can be hilly and unpaved, making them potentially challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues, there are gentler paths available. The presence of benches and picnic areas near the main parking lot adds to the convenience for families. Remember that dogs are not allowed, so plan accordingly if you have a furry friend. Reddit

🏃 Fitness Enthusiasts

For those seeking a rigorous workout, Edgewood Park is a prime destination. 'The Hill,' famously used by professional athletes, offers a demanding incline that will test your stamina and strength. Reddit The network of trails also provides ample opportunity for long-distance running or challenging hikes. Be prepared with water and appropriate footwear, as many trails are unpaved and can be steep. The rewarding views from the higher elevations are a great motivator to push through the exertion. Reddit

📸 Nature Photographers

Photographers will find Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve a rewarding location, especially during spring. The vibrant wildflower blooms create stunning natural scenes, perfect for macro and landscape photography. Reddit The Ridge Trail offers sweeping panoramic views of the Bay Area, ideal for capturing expansive vistas. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best lighting conditions for photography. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, which can add dynamic elements to your shots. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legendary 'Hill' Challenge

Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve is home to a legendary incline known simply as 'The Hill.' This challenging ascent gained fame as a training ground for professional athletes, most notably NFL star Jerry Rice, who reportedly used it extensively during his career. The steepness of the hill is no joke; even T.O. famously struggled when he attempted it. Reddit

For those looking to test their physical limits, running 'The Hill' offers a significant cardiovascular workout. Proper preparation, including good cardiovascular fitness and strong leg muscles, is recommended. The reward for conquering this formidable climb is not just the sense of accomplishment but also the breathtaking panoramic views that await at the summit. It's a unique feature that sets Edgewood Park apart for fitness enthusiasts. Reddit

A Springtime Wonderland of Wildflowers

During the spring months, Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve transforms into a spectacular natural display of wildflowers. The park's diverse habitats, ranging from grasslands to woodlands, support a rich variety of blooming flora, creating a vibrant and colorful landscape. Visitors often describe the experience as walking through a living tapestry. Reddit

This seasonal bloom is a major draw for photographers and nature lovers. The best time to witness this spectacle is typically in early spring. The combination of the blooming flowers, the pleasant spring weather, and the diverse terrain makes for an incredibly picturesque and enjoyable visit. Remember to tread lightly to preserve the delicate beauty of the wildflowers. Reddit

Navigating the Trails and Views

Edgewood Park offers a network of interconnected trails catering to various preferences, from shaded woodland paths to open, sun-drenched grasslands. While the trails are generally well-marked, their unpaved and often hilly nature means sturdy footwear is a must. Reddit The variety ensures that hikers can choose routes that suit their desired level of exertion and scenery. Some trails offer a gentle stroll, while others, like the ascent to 'The Hill,' provide a more strenuous workout. Reddit

The Ridge Trail is a standout, providing expansive views across the San Mateo County and the wider Bay Area, stretching all the way to Mount Diablo on clear days. Benches are strategically placed along many routes, offering perfect spots to rest and soak in the scenery. While some sections might be close enough to hear the distant hum of the highway, the natural beauty and the fresh air often make it a minor distraction. Reddit

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