Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve: A Skyline Sanctuary
Explore scenic trails, wildflower meadows, and panoramic views at this expansive Santa Cruz Mountain preserve.
Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve, located in the Santa Cruz Mountains, offers a diverse landscape of forests and open meadows. With over 3,000 acres, it's a popular destination for hiking, biking, and enjoying panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay and Pacific Ocean.
A brief summary to Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve
- Redwood City, California, 94062, US
- +1650-691-1200
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit in the spring to witness the spectacular wildflower blooms, especially poppies and lupines.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen, as many trails are exposed with little shade.
- Download a map or take a photo of the signboard map at the parking lot, as trails can be confusing.
- No dogs are allowed in the preserve.
- Check the weather forecast before you go; fog can obscure the views.
Getting There
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Driving
The main Russian Ridge parking area is located at the northwest corner of the intersection of Skyline Boulevard (Highway 35) and Page Mill/Alpine Road. From Interstate 280, exit at Page Mill Road and head west for approximately 9 miles until you reach Skyline Boulevard. Cross Skyline Boulevard and continue onto Alpine Road; the parking area will be immediately on your right. Parking is free. There are 37 spaces available. An additional parking area, the Audrey C. Rust Commemorative Site, is located about 1 mile down Alpine Road.
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Public Transport
While there is no direct public transportation to Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve, you can take SamTrans bus routes to nearby locations and then use a ride-sharing service to reach the preserve. Take SamTrans Route 270 or 274 to the intersection of Skyline Boulevard and Alpine Road. From there, it is a short walk to the entrance of Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve. A one-way fare on SamTrans is $2.25. A ride-sharing service from the bus stop to the preserve entrance will cost approximately $15-$25.
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