San Francisco Bay Trail, Ravenswood Open Space Preserve, East Palo Alto (moderate) This small preserve connects to the 350-mile (and growing) Bay Trail, so you can extend your hike as far as you’d like. “It’s paved and flat, great for biking and really beautiful,” says Ranger Robin. For an unusual source of fall color, check out the pickleweed growing in the briny marshlands. When it turns red, it’s absorbed all the salt it can take and is about to drop its leaves. You might see a salt marsh harvest mouse or ridgeway rail, two endangered species that thrive in this habitat. TIPS: Bring your binoculars and do some bird-watching at the preserve’s observation platforms. Parking is usually easy. MORE OPTIONS: • Pillar Point Bluff to Jean Lauer trails, Moss Beach. This 1.6-mile loop offers views of Montara Mountain and the San Mateo County coastline. Leashed dogs are allowed on the bluff trail, but not on the beach, which is in the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve, says Ranger Lauren. • Hazelnut to Weiler Ranch trails, San Pedro Valley Park, Pacifica. This 4.1-mile loop offers valley views and an occasional glimpse of the Pacific Ocean. Ranger Lauren suggests popping into the visitor center, open 10AM-4PM on weekends. PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF: MIKE KAHN - MROSD / SAN MATEO COUNTY PARKS FIND A GUIDE If heading out on a trail by yourself feels daunting, join docents or rangers in one of Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District’s preserves. Find everything from familyfriendly strolls to vigorous 6-mile hikes and fall-themed events. Go to openspace.org and click on “Get Involved” for a calendar of free guided hikes and other activities. PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM 105
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTcxMjMwNg==