Hikers in Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve / photo by Lanette Otvos

Coffee & Spice: A Natural and Cultural History

Wednesday, February 17, 2027
10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Thornewood Preserve
Approximate Total Miles
3.5

Docent Naturalists Olga and Tony Bright welcome you to join a moderately-paced exploration of the fascinating history of the Thornewood estate. You’ll hike along the Schilling and Bridle trails while learning a tale of sugar and spice, last century’s San Franciso elite, and their establishment of some of the historic houses on the peninsula. Amid these stories, you’ll also learn about the plants as you observe the native shrubs and walk beneath the redwood canopy.

Where to Meet

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.

To ensure your experience on a docent naturalist outing is enjoyable please review these activity guidelines.

For more information about trail characteristics for this event, check out the Midpen Trail Explorer app. To learn more about ADA accommodations for events, or make an inquiry with the ADA coordinator, visit our Accessibility page.

If your activity requires registration, please be sure to cancel your reservation (from your confirmation email) if you are no longer able to attend so others can participate.

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