Sandstone Outcroppings and Unlimited Views
Long Ridge Open Space Preserve
(This is another in the series, "Benches and Other Great Places for Lunch"--short hikes to special places, just right for a quiet getaway.
"Come on, then, and let us go together, and let us spend our time in discoursing of things that are profitable." -John Bunyan, "Pilgrim's Progress
Directions: The trailhead is at Gate LR-01, located on Skyline Boulevard 1.7 miles north of the intersection of Highway 9 and 24 miles south of Highway 92.
Grade: Easy. Elevation gain of 200 feet.
Distance: One mile round trip.
Time: One hour plus picnic time.
Special Conditions: All trails are for hiking, bicycling, and equestrian use. Most are old ranch roads. No problem with poison oak. No water or rest rooms. This preserve is under the jurisdiction of the Midpeninsula Open Space District (650 691-1200).
This walk starts at Gate LR-01 of the Long Ridge Open Space Preserve. Parking is limited alongside Skyline Boulevard.
Passing through the gate, the trail leads uphill through a forest of pine, oak, and madrone. In a matter of minutes you have climbed nearly 200 feet to the ridgeline and the Hickory Oaks Trail.
Turn right, and begin hiking under the trees for which this trail is named. The hickory oak is actually another name for the canyon oak. This tree is typically 20 to 50 feet tall with a dense canopy. Trees with trunks 12 to 18 inches in diameter are generally 100 to 150 years old. The maximum age can exceed 300 years. The wood of this tree is very strong. It was the choice of toolmakers in the late 1800s and was used in the construction of ships, carriages, wagons, and houses.
A well-seasoned limb sold for as much as five dollars a foot in 1872 ("Oaks of California," Cachuma Press, Inc., 1991).
Ahead, the trail divides. Turn left and walk along the grassy hillside. Uninterrupted views to the west follow the Oil Creek drainage basin to the distant ridge and the Pacific Ocean beyond.
Along this side trail are sandstone outcroppings--just right for sitting and picnicking. This grassy slope is ideal for spring wildflowers, and the views are wonderful on any clear day.
You can retrace your steps, or continue on this single-track trail to the junction with the wide Hickory Oaks Trail. Turn right, and hike back to the trailhead.
Your comments and hiking suggestions are always welcome.
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