Stream Trail Out-and-Back

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · River/Creek

This out-and-back provides a relatively short jaunt that is perfect for families. The wide, mostly paved path is stroller friendly (especially joggers) while a number of benches along the way provide great places to stop for breaks. There are restrooms at the trailhead as well as a large field and then a playground a hundred yards or so from the starting point.

After the playground area, the Stream Trail ducks under a redwood grove and enters much darker, denser vegetation along Redwood Creek. The shade makes this stretch much cooler and wetter.

The last few hundred feet can be bumpier and rougher terrain for visitors who aren't sure-footed or strollers with small or hard wheels.

Restrooms at the Canyon Meadow Staging Area.

A great warm-up or cool-down for longer routes.

Find your way to the Canyon Meadow Staging Area trailhead. There are a few dozen parking spots but the lot can fill up on weekends.

Head out along the obvious paved path toward the restrooms and a trail kiosk. Look for informational signage along the trail that highlights the ecology of this area.

The trail quickly emerges into a large field with a playground for toddlers. Continue heading northeast along the path, crossing over a bridge before entering the redwood grove. This marks the more-shaded, forest section of the trail that winds above Redwood Creek.

Before too long, the Stream Trail will come to an end at a gate. This marks Trail's End and the turnaround spot for this run. The trail continues on bumpier terrain with access to numerous more challenging.

In the winter months, be on the lookout for hibernating ladybugs! The stream is also home to salamanders which can be seen from the trail above as they float in the water.