Huddart Park wilderness guide
County Park · CA

Huddart Park

Huddart Park is a scenic county park located in the Santa Cruz Mountains, offering lush forested areas and numerous trails for hiking enthusiasts.

County Park9734+ Trails

Designation

County Park

Total Wilderness Area

973

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Huddart Park

Huddart Park is a scenic county park located in the Santa Cruz Mountains, offering lush forested areas and numerous trails for hiking enthusiasts.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Huddart Park, situated in San Mateo County, California, is a gateway to the rich ecosystem of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Spanning over 900 acres of mixed hardwood forest, including California laurel, Douglas fir, and coastal redwood, this park is a haven for both local flora and fauna. It was established in the 1940s and is renowned for its well-maintained trails that provide access to picturesque vistas and tranquil settings. Key attractions include the Redwood Nature Trail and Werder Shelter, which offer opportunities for both education and recreation. Visitors often enjoy activities such as hiking, picnicking, and bird watching, with the park's picnic areas being perfect for family outings. Huddart Park also serves as an important zone for environmental education, with several programs designed to educate visitors about local ecology and conservation efforts. The park's proximity to urban areas makes it a popular retreat for weekend adventurers seeking respite in nature.

Field Guide · County Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Huddart Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Redwood Nature Trail✦ Werder Ranch House✦ McGarvey Gulch✦ Campground Green Fields
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Huddart Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Huddart Park
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Huddart Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Huddart Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Huddart Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Huddart Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Parking fee applies; no permits needed for hiking.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Huddart Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Huddart Park Campground

Located centrally within the park, offering convenient access to trails and facilities.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Huddart Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Woodside, California
⌖ 2.36 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Woodside, California

Woodside, CA, is an outdoor enthusiast's dream, offering hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding in the scenic Santa Cruz Mountains. Enjoy serene picnics and vistas in this tranquil town.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Portola Valley, California
⌖ 5.31 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Portola Valley, California

Portola Valley offers tranquil outdoor adventures with scenic hiking and biking trails winding through protected hills and redwood groves. Ideal for nature lovers seeking peaceful day trips near the San Francisco Bay Area.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Redwood City, California
⌖ 5.58 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Redwood City, California

Redwood City offers a blend of waterfront thrills and natural escapes with hiking, biking, and paddling spots right at the bay’s edge. From spring wildflower hikes to lively marina activities, outdoor lovers find plenty to explore year-round.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
San Carlos, California
⌖ 6.07 miles
Gateway Basecamp

San Carlos, California

San Carlos, California, offers outdoor lovers access to gentle hiking and mountain biking trails, scenic kayaking on the bay, and relaxed bird watching. Perfect for combining active days with small-town charm in the heart of the Bay Area.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Belmont, California
⌖ 6.48 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Belmont, California

Belmont offers easy access to scenic hiking and mountain biking trails, tranquil kayaking spots, and bird watching along the San Francisco Peninsula. Mild weather makes it a great year-round outdoor basecamp near the Bay.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Menlo Park, California
⌖ 6.56 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Menlo Park, California

Menlo Park offers easy access to waterfront parks and varied trails for hiking, biking, and paddling. Ideal from spring to fall, it’s a suburban hub near San Francisco Bay with great outdoor options for all skill levels.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Huddart Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.