Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve

Ten miles of trails including ridge top vistas, expansive meadows, and a pond designated for nature study are available for exploration. The Ridge Trail starts uphill through a mixed-evergreen forest. Looking down, there are rows of tiny, charming trees at the Christmas Tree Farm. At the clearing, the trail intersects with the alternate Ridge Trail, which is open to mountain bikers. Continue straight ahead on the Ridge Trail to Alpine Pond, there is a railed area offering panoramic views of forested Portola State Park, the Butano Ridge, and in the distance, the Pacific Ocean. The trail to Alpine Pond is 3M roundtrip; additional mileage can be obtained by getting on the alternate Ridge Trail, or following the trail to Horseshoe Lake.

Page Mill Road is a challenging and scenic climb, about 1800 ft. in the first 5M. Some sections are over 10% grades. The descent is more difficult, poor visibility and rough patches of road require experience and caution.

Facilities:

Portable toilets are located at the entrance and Alpine Pond. Midpeninsula Preserve District. (415) 691-1200. Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve Map.

Directions:

From I-280 near Palo Alto, take Page Mill Road about 9 miles to Skyline Blvd.

Go 1 mile south on Skyline; the Preserve is on your right. Park in the lot farthest to your right as you enter.

Tri home.