Joe Capote – Certified Investment Agent Specialist Expert in Real Estate Investments and Properties

Junipero Serra Park

 Junipero Serra Park is a 108 acre site run by the San Mateo County Department of Parks and located on the border of San Bruno and neighboring Millbrae. The park entrance is located on

Crystal Springs Road about a half mile up from the 280 southbound exit. Another entrace is located across from Beckner Shelter in San Bruno City Park. A fireoad offers access by foot and parking is available.

The park has an interesting history.  Originally part of the Buri-Buri Rancho owned by Jose Sanchez, it was purchased by San Mateo County in 1956. Set in the foothills of the Santa Cruz mountains just east of the San Andreas Resevoir, the park is bounded in the east by the Serra fault while the San Andreas fault lies 1/4 mile to the west.

The park is a snapshot of what the foothill plant communities looked like before European settlers arrived in the area. Common trees such as the Coastal Live Oak and California Buckeye are plentiful while the protected animals include scrub jays, raccoons, turkey vultures and red-tail hawks.

The park offers awesome amenties such as hiking trails, picnic facilities and playgrounds. The network of hiking trails includes the 1.5 mile Quail Loop Trail, which offers views of the Bay and well maintained trails. The parks offers several vantage points for great views. Views of San Bruno’s Crystal Terrace neighborhood can be observed from the Crystal Terrace Lookout. Other views of the Bay and Airport can be seen from the Meadow View trail and Quail Loop Trail. These trails are very moderate difficulty and elementary shool kids should have fun hiking the Qual Loop Trail.

The kids also love the two playgrounds. The Meadow View Playground, re-opened in 2009 after extensive rennovations, offers 54 foot long double slides and some good climing structures. While the kids take advantage of the playground, parents will enjoy the spectacular views of the Bay, airport and San Bruno Mountain.

Junipero Serra Park is a treasured community asset and a great way to spend the afternoon either on a peaceful day hike or picnic/bbq.