FOOTHILLS NATURE PRESERVE

FOOTHILLS NATURE PRESERVE

Hike Date:  Saturday, August 30, 2025

Leader:  Ron Gasparinetti

Leader Email:  ron@sfhiking.com

Leader Phone: 650 759-5345

Carpooling Meeting Locations:
SF: Whole Foods;  2001 Market St. @ Dolores (on the Dolores St. side); parking on the street or below.
Rockridge BART: Bottom of escalator.

Carpooling Meeting Times: SF: 9:00AM; Rockridge: 8:50AM 

Please only show up at the carpooling place if you've arranged to meet your ride or driver there.
 
Rating: Level 3.5

Mileage:  7.65 miles

Elevation Gain: 1600'

Description:  Foothill Nature Preserve has only been open to the general public since December of 2021.  Previously, only residents of Palo Alto were allowed entrance to the park.  The initial influx of new visitors has now waned and the park retains its lush natural beauty.  We'll be starting our hike at the Orchard Glen Parking area with a gradual ascent for the first 2 miles.  From there, following Los Trancos Creek, the remainder of the hike will be mostly downhill.  Lunch will be a little later in the hike than usual in a small field.  The final 1.5 miles will be on the Steep Hollow Trail and Los Trancos Trail leading us to the Foothill Nature Preserve Interpretive Center and a short jaunt back to the cars.  If parking is filled up at the Orchard Glen Picnic Area, there is plenty of parking nearby throughout the Preserve.  There is a $6 per vehicle entry fee. Sadly, dogs are not permitted in the Preserve on weekends. 

Bring / Wear: Lots of water, lunch, sunscreen and hat for the sunny portions. Poles if you'd like and comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes with good traction.

Weather Policy: Hike will be canceled in the event of heavy/steady rain.

Trailhead Meeting Place: The Orchard Glen Picnic Area inside the Preserve.  Google Maps Link

Trailhead Meeting Time:  10:00 AM

Trailhead Departure Time: 10:15 AM

Total driving distance, there and back: 87 miles from SF;100 from Rockridge.

Passenger Carpool Fees from SF:  $13  From Rockridge BART: $16

(I will inform you of carpooling arrangements by late Thursday or early Friday.)