Portola Valley CaliforniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Portola Valley, California.
1. Old La Honda Road
SCENIC CYCLING CHALLENGE
Old La Honda Road offers a challenging three-mile climb that begins at the first hairpin curve and continues until meeting Skyline Boulevard. This popular road cycling segment attracts cycling enthusiasts looking for a physical challenge with rewarding views. The route is known for its consistent grade and shaded forest environment, making it a favorite among local riders.
2. Kings Mountain Road
TWISTY DESCENT ROUTE
Kings Mountain Road is a narrow and very twisty road that descends for a little over four miles. The route appears about one mile into the descent portion of cycling loops in the area. This technical descent requires good bike handling skills and offers beautiful scenery through the Santa Cruz Mountains.
3. Arastradero Preserve
NATURAL WILDLIFE HAVEN
Arastradero Preserve is a large nature preserve with extensive hiking trails and picnic areas perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the preserve's diverse ecosystem. The preserve showcases the natural beauty that Portola Valley is known for, with rolling hills and seasonal wildflowers.
4. Windy Hill Open Space Preserve
PANORAMIC BAY VIEWS
Windy Hill Open Space Preserve is a popular destination for hiking, mountain biking, and scenic views of the Bay Area. The preserve offers extensive trail networks that wind through diverse habitats including grasslands and forests. From the summit, visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views stretching from San Francisco to San Jose on clear days.
5. Tafoni Sandstone Formation
UNIQUE GEOLOGICAL WONDER
The Tafoni sandstone formations consist of ancient dune sand cemented by water-soluble calcite, creating fascinating honeycomb-like patterns. Water easily passes through the porous rock, dissolving the calcite and depositing it elsewhere, resulting in the distinctive erosion patterns. These unique geological features provide both scientific interest and natural beauty for hikers exploring the area.
6. Junipero Serra Boulevard
CYCLIST-FRIENDLY URBAN ROUTE
Junipero Serra Boulevard features a generous, paved bike lane in both directions for the entire length of the ride. Though car traffic is ever-present on this route, the dedicated bike lanes make it accessible for cyclists of various skill levels. The boulevard serves as an important connecting route for cyclists exploring the Portola Valley area.
7. Our Lady of the Wayside Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
Our Lady of the Wayside Church was built in 1912 for the local Catholic community in Portola Valley. The church is recognized as a California Historic Landmark and is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Its charming architecture and historical significance make it a notable cultural landmark in the town.
8. Portola Valley School
HISTORIC ONE-ROOM SCHOOLHOUSE
Portola Valley School is a one-room former schoolhouse built in 1909 that now serves as the venue for town council meetings. The historic building is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, preserving an important piece of local educational history. Its simple architecture represents early 20th-century rural California school design.
9. Alpine Inn
HISTORIC DRINKING ESTABLISHMENT
The Alpine Inn, also known as Casa de Tableta, Rossotti's, or Zott's, is one of the oldest existing drinking establishments in California, dating back to around 1852. The historic establishment was the site of the first two-network TCP/IP transmission between a specialized SRI van and ARPANET on August 27, 1976. After changing ownership in 2018, the inn underwent renovations and reopened in August 2019, maintaining its historic charm while offering updated amenities.
10. Coal Mine Ridge Nature Preserve
PRIVATE CONSERVATION AREA
Coal Mine Ridge Nature Preserve is a 235-acre private property that, by agreement with the town, is set aside as open space for public enjoyment. The preserve is integrated into Portola Valley's expansive trail network, offering hikers and nature enthusiasts access to pristine natural environments. Despite its private ownership, the preserve represents the community's commitment to conservation and outdoor recreation.
11. Western Pacific Railroad Museum
HISTORIC TRAIN COLLECTION
The Western Pacific Railroad Museum in nearby Portola showcases an extensive collection of historic trains and railroad artifacts. Visitors can explore preserved locomotives, passenger cars, and freight equipment that tell the story of Western Pacific's role in California's development. The museum offers a hands-on experience with opportunities to climb aboard various train cars and learn about railroad history.
12. Grizzly Ranch Golf Club
PREMIUM GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Grizzly Ranch Golf Club offers a premium golfing experience set amongst stunning natural landscapes near Portola. The meticulously maintained course features challenging holes designed to accommodate players of all skill levels. Golfers can enjoy beautiful mountain views and pristine conditions throughout their round at this acclaimed facility.
13. Eureka Peak Brewing Company
LOCAL CRAFT BEER
Eureka Peak Brewing Company serves as a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors seeking craft beer in the Portola area. The brewery offers a rotating selection of handcrafted beers made with quality ingredients and local inspiration. Visitors can enjoy the relaxed atmosphere while sampling unique brews that reflect the character of the region.
14. Town Center
COMMUNITY GATHERING HUB
Portola Valley's Town Center serves as the heart of this small, wealthy community nestled on the eastern slopes of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The center provides essential community services and hosts various local events throughout the year. Its design reflects the town's commitment to maintaining a rural atmosphere while providing modern amenities for residents and visitors.
15. Williams House Museum
LOCAL HISTORICAL PRESERVATION
The Williams House Museum preserves local history through its collection of artifacts and exhibits related to Portola and the surrounding Plumas County. Visitors can explore the historic building and learn about the development of the region through informative displays and knowledgeable staff. The museum offers a glimpse into the past, highlighting the cultural and economic forces that shaped the area.