March 1995
A few cars are parked on the small dirt lot in front of the gate, but nobody is in sight. The only sign that human existence has entered into this area is the gate itself and a portable bathroom just beyond it. A trail twists off into three directions: over a bridge, up a hill and the last disappears into the dense, green woods, the kind that always seem to have a hint of mist in them.
The creek can be heard rushing through the Purissima Creek Preserve from almost any given point on the trails. Redwoods tower over all, looking so huge and solid it is hard to believe their existence is threatened. Ferns, berry bushes, evergreen trees and, unfortunately, poison oak and stinging nettles tumble everywhere along the trails.
This is the way California used to look before its discovery. Purissima has been a longtime favorite of runners, bikers and hikers in the area, but the preserve still has yet to be discovered by a larger part of the population. It is very much out of the way, past Half Moon Bay and reached only by long, winding farm-lined country lanes.
Parking is limited. A small, muddy area big enough for only six or seven cars serves as a lot. And since Purissima does not get overcrowded with visitors, there has been no need to expand it.
The usual day-at-the-park entertainments are not to be found at the Preserve. There are no playgrounds, picnic tables, barbecue pits or a ranger station. There is nothing to do but walk and explore the endless trails, eat lunch on a mossy log on the bank of the creek, or take a bike ride to the top of the mountain.
To get to Purissima Creek Preserve take Highway 1 south to Purissima Creek Road. The road ends at the beginning of the Preserve.