directions, trail distances, and details of natural features are intended to be objective and concise.
Travel times are based on a moderate hiking pace, which averages about two miles an hour, taking into account the difficulty of the terrain and the elevation gain. Trip distances are stated as one way, loop, or round trip. Trip times are those required to complete the trips as described. Of course, time for bicyclists or equestrians will differ from that for hikers.
Figures for elevation change tell the vertical footage gained or lost from the start to the highest or lowest point of the trip. These figures do not include minor elevation changes along the way. When the outward leg of a loop or a round trip is uphill, the elevation change is given as a gain; then, of course, the return leg will be an elevation loss. Conversely, when the outward leg is downhill, the elevation change is given as a loss.
To estimate the time required for a trip where the cumulative gain is more than 1000 feet or where there are steep climbs within a short distance, the authors used an old hiking rule: for every 1000 vertical feet gain, add ½ hour to the time that would be required on level ground.
Trails for Different Seasons and Reasons in Appendix I groups trails for a variety of purposes and situations, from long hikes and steep mountain climbs in large parks and preserves to strolls on gentle paths past tidal marshes and ocean beaches. These suggestions may help those unfamiliar with the Peninsula and its Coastside to find a suitable trail or perhaps inspire seasoned hikers to try new trails in our parks and open-space preserves. It is not an exhaustive list. Users can add their favorites.
Every effort has been made to make this guide up-to-date, but new parks and preserves opening in the future undoubtedly will provide new trails.
Maps
On the Map of Peninsula Trails in the beginning of this book, the general locations of parks, preserves, and watersheds are shown keyed to three sections that correspond with the table of contents—Northern, Central, and Southern
Peninsula—as delineated by the three major roads crossing from Bay to Coast. An enlarged map precedes each of these three sections in the text., and a map also accompanies each park or preserve. Separate maps of the San Francisco Bay Trail and the Coastal Trail in San Mateo County precede those sections of the book and are presented from north to south.
Individual maps of all the parks and preserves, specially prepared for this book, show trail routes and entry points, main natural features, elevations, park facilities, and parking areas for cars and horse trailers. These maps are a valuable reference for hikers, runners, bicyclists, and equestrians, as well as for those who wish to picnic or just relax in public recreation sites. Although many parks and preserves offer trails maps, these are not always available. To secure more information, leaflets, and maps, and free docent-led walks and tours in MROSD preserves, federal, state, and county parks, write, phone or visit the agency’s website listed in Appendix III.
In addition to these public agencies, the Trail Center is a volunteer organization that serves as a source of information about local trails and trail activities. Among publications available are a four-county parks map and a trail map of the southern Peninsula, now available through Wilderness Press.
Excellent topographic maps are available from the United States Geological Survey headquarters and from many sporting-goods stores. The western district headquarters of the USGS is at 345 Middlefield Road, Menlo Park. The map sales and information office, Building 3, a fascinating place worth a trip in itself, is open from 8 A.M. to 4 P.M. USGS maps are published in a 7.5-minute series. Some local trails are shown on these maps, but it is the topographic information that is of particular interest to the trail user—contours and natural features, such as wooded areas, clearings, creeks, lakes, and mountains. Although topo maps are not necessary for using the trails in this guide, they can add to your understanding of the terrain. After you have learned to read the contour lines, you can visualize the shape and elevation of the land they represent. Then you can tell by the spacing of the contour lines whether the grade on the trail will be steep or gentle.
The area of this guide is covered by quadrangles of the 7.5-minute series, listed here from north to south: San Francisco South, Montara Mountain, San Mateo, Half Moon Bay, Woodside, Pigeon Point, Palo Alto, Mindego Hill, Cupertino, La Honda, San Gregorio, Big Basin, Franklin Point, and Año Nuevo.
At some sports shops, one can print parts of or full-size topo maps on waterproof paper for a price somewhat higher than the USGS charges.
Trail Rules, Etiquette, and Safety
Park and open-space preserve regulations are few, but they are important. Based on common sense, they are necessary for your own safety, the protection of the parklands, and to preserve the beauty of the natural setting.
All plants, animals, and natural features are protected. Leave them undisturbed for others to enjoy.
Stay on the trail. Shortcuts across trail switchbacks break the trail edge and accelerate erosion.
Don’t smoke on the trail, and build no fires except where permitted in established fireplaces.
Firearms and bows and arrows are prohibited.
Hours: generally open 8 A.M. to dusk; MROSD preserves open dawn to dusk.
Fees for some state and county parks; subject to change.
Trail closures: in wet weather trails often are closed to bicyclists and equestrians. Newly constructed trails are temporarily closed until treads harden.
Dogs: prohibited in all San Mateo County parks. In Santa Clara County dogs are prohibited except in some parks that permit dogs on a short leash in picnic areas, but never on trails. Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District permits dogs on leash in some preserves; call for information. State parks allow dogs on leash in campgrounds but not on trails.
Hikers and runners: yield to equestrians.
Bicyclists: ride on designated trails only. Observe closure signs. Helmets required in all parks and preserves. Speed limit in MROSD preserves and Santa Clara County parks is 15 m.p.h.; 5 m.p.h. when passing. Yield to equestrians and hikers.
Equestrians: observe closure signs. Indicate to other users when it is safe to pass.
Safety: travel with a companion rather than alone. See list of organizations offering group trips in Appendix III.
Some Hazards For Trail Users
Poison Oak: This plant, Toxicodendron diversilobum, is widespread through most of the Peninsula hiking country. You don’t need to remember its Latin name, but you should learn to recognize this ubiquitous plant with its three-lobed leaves. A pretty cream-colored flower cluster is followed by white berries. It looks different according to the season and the environment where it is growing. In spring its gray branches send out reddish buds, then shiny, young, light-green leaves. In autumn it has rosy red leaves that are brilliant in the woods and along the roadsides. To touch the twigs or leaves is to court the outbreak of an uncomfortable, itchy, blistering, long-lasting rash.
Avoid it! Wear long sleeves and long pants for protection;
