The Mills Canyon Nature Area is one of those wonderful "pocket" parks--located within the city limits, zoned for perpetual green space, a haven for wildlife and people eager to get away for a short stretch. Other areas of this type include the Water Dog Lake Trail in Belmont, Eaton/Big Canyon Park in San Carlos, Laurelwood Park in San Mateo, and Stulsaft Park in Redwood City.

This trail, dedicated in September 1983, is named the Ed Taylor Trail after the man who inspired its construction. Start your hike at the wooden entrance sign, and go downhill along the grassy hillside past a storm water diversion project under construction, past a faint trail to the right, and on to a trail junction. Turn right there, and begin your adventure along Mills Creek.

The trail drops steeply into the canyon over timber-formed steps, and soon the creek is visible on your right. Initially, the creek is considerably below the trail, and the steep canyon side does not provide easy access to the water, but soon you will hike by accessible points of interest. Along this lower trail, you will notice the typical woodland landscape, which includes tanbark oak, coastal live oak, bay trees, and even a few young redwood trees. Damp canyon conditions promote the growth of moss, and you will see some good examples of moss-coated trees along the way.

A short way into the hike, a periodic view line opens up to the Bay and the East Bay hills beyond. Following the first viewpoint is a cluster of large lichen-ridged rocks with oak trees and ferns to the side--a quiet, contemplative place that also makes a good lunch spot. Farther on, a bridge crosses the creek and links to Adeline Drive. As the trail moves toward the open hillside, views of the Sisters of Mary Convent come into form, as do several large homes along Adeline Drive to the south. The trail continues up and circles back along the grassy hillside below a residential area. Turn around from time to time to enjoy the view of the Bay as you continue your gradual climb to the west and back to the trailhead.

I suggest that you plan this walk on a fair winter day after a period of dry weather so that the muddy areas firm up. You may also wish to reverse your route so that the view is in front as you hike east and then return along the creekside. Whichever way you hike it, the Ed Taylor Trail through the Mills Canyon Nature Area is a pleasant getaway to an area little changed over time.