Walking the Dog at Foothills

 

Foothills Open Space Preserve

 

“It is a gentle ar; know how to tramp, and you know how to live. Manners maketh man, and tramping maketh manners.”         - Stephen Graham

 

Directions: The trailhead is located about eight miles east of Skyline Boulevard on the right side on Page Mill Road. Parking is limited to two spaces at the gate.

Distance: One mile round trip.

Grade: Easy.

Time: A half-hour plus time to sit and look.

Special Conditions: No water or restrooms at trailhead. Preserve operated by Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (650-691-1200.)

 

                This preserve is only 211 acres in size, with just one formal trail one-half mile long that leads to a grassy knoll. And from the knoll, it’s all about the views. To the north and last, you look down into the urban area of San Jose and the Santa Clara Valley. Around you is the Adobe Creek watershed, and down below and out of view is Hidden Villa, a 1,600-acre, non-profit organic farm and wilderness preserve.

            And to the south is Monte Bello Ridge, including the high point—Black Mountain.

            From the trailhead, step over the step-over stile and take the trail to your left. A turn to your right will lead you to a dead end at Page Mill Road in about five minutes. You will climb through chapperal to an oak-lined ridgeline. Follow the ridge to a grassy knoll. Bring a picnic lunch, spread out, and enjoy the view. Several game trails lead from the knoll, but we found none that extended more than a short distance before being choked in undergrowth.

            Since this trail is so short, you may want to take this hike in conjunction with the dog-friendly Long Ridge hike.

Your comments and hiking suggestions are always welcome.

Email tom@tomdavids.com and check out the Weekly Walker Web site at www.weeklywalker.com.