Stanford, California
Stanford Dish Loop is a top hiking trail in Stanford, California. This 3.7-mile loop offers scenic views of the Stanford campus, Silicon Valley, and the San Francisco Bay. The trail is moderately difficult with some steep inclines and descents. It's known for its large satellite dish and wildlife spotting, including deer and birds. For a more challenging hike, head to Windy Hill Open Space Preserve. It's a must-visit for its 360-degree views from the summit. The trail is 7.2 miles and features a variety of landscapes, from dense forests to open grasslands. Here, you'll encounter creeks, a waterfall, and unique rock formations. Stanford's outdoor adventures aren't limited to hiking. The Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve, near Stanford, is perfect for bird watching, kayaking, and photography.
Top Spots in and near Stanford
-
La Honda, CaliforniaHike through Portola Redwoods State Park
4.87 miLike redwood hikes? We do too, they're always very scenic and take you away from the hustle and bustle of the bay area. Not to mention, they also stay cool during the summer months. If you want a hike in the middle of the peninsula, this is a great bet.When starting this hike, head out from headq...Read more -
San Mateo County, California
Run Sawyer Camp Trail
5.012 mi / 300 ft gainThe Sawyer Camp Trail is a popular paved trail that stretches alongside the Crystal Springs Reservoir all the way to Hillcrest Blvd. The sixth mile crosses over the San Andreas Dam with nice views of San Andreas Lake.There are markers every half mile which makes timing and tracking your run easy....Read more -
Half Moon Bay, California
Watch the Sunset at Martin's Beach
4.5Martin's Beach is a beach about 7 miles south of Half Moon Bay. It features a large, very cool looking rock formation right off the coast. This beach is accessible via Martin's Beach Road, which is a small turn off on your right when southbound on Highway 1, though sometimes the road is only open...Read more -
Half Moon Bay, California
Goat Yoga at Lemos Farm
5.0This is a great way to destress and have fun! Goat yoga is like normal yoga, but with goats. Goats tend to like higher ground and flat surfaces. So, when you are in table top position, they are highly likely to jump onto your back! These goats are still young, and so do not weigh as much as f...Read more -
Saratoga, California
Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail
4.530.8 miWant to experience one of the bay area's most memorable backpacking trips? We've got the details to get you out on the trail. To start the trek, drop your car at the Castle Rock State Park Parking Lot, which is located ~2.5 miles south of the junctions of Highways 35 and 9 off of Highway 35. Not...Read more -
Saratoga, California
Backpack Castle Rock State Park
4.7Castle Rock Trail Camp has a different policy than other backcountry camps in the area (i.e. campsites along Skyline to the Sea). This campground is open all year and is available on a first come, first served basis. If you can, grab a spot a Frog Flat Camp. To get to the camp, park your car at t...Read more -
Los Gatos, California
Hike the Saratoga Gap Trail
4.64.7 miThe Saratoga Gap Trail is relatively lightly trafficked trail that is good year round, although waterfalls peak in late winter and spring. Overall, this 4.7 mile partial loop hike is moderate, with about 1000 feet in elevation change. Trailhead elevation is about 3090 feet. The featured hike desc...Read more -
Fremont, California
Lake Elizabeth Loop
3.02.1 mi / 69 ft gainLake Elizabeth is located in central Fremont. It offers a nice break from the city streets and can be enjoyed by walkers, joggers, and bikers alike. It is a park for all ages. Other attractions include volleyball nets, multiple playgrounds, and aqua adventure park, geese, and peddle boats. ...Read more -
Sanborn County Park, California
Hike Sanborn County Park via the San Andreas Trail
4.04.2 mi / 1282 ft gainThis is a moderately rated 4.2 mile trail that winds through the redwoods west of Saratoga. It features a dirt trail with tall trees and a creek. The hike is very tranquil and there is lot s of greenery. There are big rocks in the creek that can you can sit on. People often meditate here as i...Read more -
Cowell Ranch Beach Access, California
Picnic at Cowell Ranch Beach
5.0Hike half a mile to this beautiful, secluded beach. There are high cliffs with a steep staircase down to the beach. The beach has wonderful rock formations on one side. It is a great place to watch the sunset or bring a picnic. A great place for a beach day if you are looking for something le...Read more -
Half Moon Bay, California
Bike the Cowell-Purisima Coastal Trail
4.0This trail begins at the Cowell State Beach parking lot and is only open on the weekends. From the lot, take the short Cowell Ranch Access trail to a scenic overlook. There are steps down to the secluded pocket beach just above the main trail. The trail playfully meanders along the cliffside with...Read more -
Half Moon Bay, California
Hike the Cowell-Purisma Trail
5.07 mi / 400 ft gainThis is a popular trail that has beach access to Cowell Ranch Beach. Along the trail, there is a steep staircase that goes down to the beach. The trail also features fields, a bridge, and beautiful views of California's rugged coastline. This trail is paved in some parts, and can also be biked...Read more -
Half Moon Bay, California
Stroll along the Southern Beaches at San Gregorio State Beach
4.02.9 mi / 413 ft gainNot a trail per se, but approximately 3 miles (down and back) of beautiful beach to walk down. Lots of interesting caves, wild animals, and rock formations to discover. This is a popular location for sea kayakers. San Gregorio State Beach was originally founded to protect the estuary at the back ...Read more -
Fremont, California
Mission Peak via Hidden Valley Trail
4.26.16 mi / 2116 ft gainBreathtaking views of the Bay Area are your reward for making this climb to the top of Mission Peak. It’s a 3-mile trek to the top of the peak and then back down the same way. This is a moderate hike that provides a nice workout – so be prepared. Park at the Stanford Avenue entrance gate. There ...Read more -
Half Moon Bay, California
Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail
3.64 mi / 322 ft gainHalf Moon Bay Coastal Trail is an out-and-back trail where you may see local wildlife located near Half Moon Bay, California.Read more -
Half Moon Bay, CaliforniaCamp at Francis Beach Campground
4.0If you love to log as much water time as possible, this little gem is the campsite for you. Half Moon Bay State Beach is actually four smaller beaches, with a total of two miles of sandy shore, but you'll be camping right at Kelly Ave., one of Half Moon Bay's most consistent surf spots. Keep in m...Read more
