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

Weird Valentine

Saturday, February 14, 2026
10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve
Approximate Total Miles
4

It's Valentines Day and, not coincidentally, many animals act on their "spring feelings" around the same time. Docent Naturalists Annette Herz, An Scharlaken, Jan Hintermeister, and Melissa Hero will explore the different adaptations nature deploys for procreation as you hike beneath the redwood canopy. Some strategies will likely be familiar to you while others will be very, very different! With some luck you’ll have the opportunity to observe some of the species, too. Bring a snack to enjoy and be prepared for wintery redwood temperatures. (Note: Please evaluate if this guided activity is appropriate for your child due to the content being about mating and procreation.) Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after January 31 at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) and close February 13 at 2:00 p.m.

Where to Meet

From the North: Accessible from Purisima Creek Road. From the Highway 92 and Highway 1 intersection in Half Moon Bay, travel on Highway 1 south approximately 4.3 miles. Turn left on Verde Road. After turning on to Verde Road and traveling 1/4-mile, continue straight to remain on what becomes Purisima Creek Road. (Verde Road splits off to the right.) Travel approximately 3.7 miles on Purisima Creek Road. From the South: Accessible from Purisima Creek Road. From the Highway 84 and Highway 1 intersection in San Gregorio, travel on Highway 1 north approximately 6.4 miles. Turn right on the third Verde Road intersection. After turning on to Verde Road and traveling 1/4-mile, continue straight to remain on what becomes Purisima Creek Road. (Verde Road splits off to the right.) Travel approximately 3.7 miles on Purisima Creek Road.

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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