Cowell-Purisima Coastal Trail

Distance: 3.6 miles one way (if you arrange a ride back to the start)

Elevation change: Flat

Hiking time: 2 hours

Trail surface: Gravel, fully exposed

Best season: Year round

Managing agency: San Mateo County Parks

Parking lot location: Click here for directions

This trail is approximately 3.6 miles from one end to the other, winding along the bluffs with views of the ocean. There is parking available at both the northern and southern trailheads. Both trailheads have ample parking and the difficulty of the trail from either end is the same. Cowell Ranch Beach is only accessible via this trail. It’s worth the effort to hike the short spur trail down to the sand and its remoteness keeps this beach clear of large crowds even in the summer months.

Wheelchair accessibility:
For those in wheelchairs, note that most of this trail is wheelchair accessible with the exception of some steep terrain in the middle where the trail crosses Purisima Creek. It’s a short section of trail, but the grade there is steep and not recommended for wheelchairs. We recommend that those in wheelchairs pick an end of the trail (north or south) and make an out and back trip to this point, unless assistance is available to safely make it up and down this grade. Note that the southern trailhead has a wheelchair accessible bathroom and a space for a full-sized van.