The park contains the headwaters of San Pedro Creek, which supports a population of steelhead trout.
The Montara Mountain Trail provides a vantage point where visitors can see the Farallon Islands on clear days.
The park was established in the 1970s to preserve the natural valley from proposed residential development.
Brooks Falls is one of the few waterfalls in San Mateo County accessible via a relatively short hiking trail.
The geology of the area is dominated by the Montara Granodiorite formation, dating back approximately 90 million years.
San Pedro Valley Park is a 1,100-acre protected area in Pacifica, California, characterized by its coastal mountain topography and proximity to the Pacific Ocean. The park features the 300-foot Brooks Falls, which is most active during the rainy winter and spring months. Trails range from the flat, accessible Valley View Trail to the strenuous Montara Mountain Trail, which ascends to the peak of North Peak. The area protects diverse ecosystems, including coastal scrub, riparian corridors, and mixed woodlands. Visitors can access multiple picnic areas equipped with tables and grills situated near the park entrance. The park serves as a gateway to the larger Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District network via the summit connections. Its geographic position creates a unique microclimate frequently influenced by coastal fog. The park is managed by the San Mateo County Parks Department.
The viewing platform overlooking the Brooks Falls trail during the spring season.
Layer your clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly when the coastal fog rolls in.
Check the county park website for trail closures after heavy rain, as paths can become muddy or prone to minor landslides.
Bring binoculars if you plan to hike to the higher ridges, as they are excellent for spotting raptors and shorebirds.
Attempting the Montara Mountain trail without adequate water or during high-wind events, which are common on the ridges.
Park gates may close during extreme weather events; parking is restricted to designated lots.
Leash your dogs at all times, stay on marked trails to protect sensitive habitat, and pack out all trash.
