Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve: Skyline Serenity
Explore Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve for panoramic views, wildflower meadows, and serene trails in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains.
Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve, located in the Santa Cruz Mountains, offers stunning panoramic views from the Pacific Ocean to the San Francisco Bay. This 3,137-acre preserve features diverse terrain, including open meadows and dense forests, with trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
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 spring for the best wildflower displays, especially poppies and lupine.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
- Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, as many trails are exposed with little shade.
- Be aware of wildlife, including rattlesnakes, ticks, and poison oak.
- Download offline maps, as cell service can be unreliable in the preserve.
Getting There
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Driving
The main parking area for Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve is located at the intersection of Skyline Boulevard (Highway 35) and Page Mill/Alpine Road. From Interstate 280, take Page Mill Road west for approximately 8 miles. Cross Skyline Boulevard, and the parking lot will be immediately on your right. Parking is free. Be aware that Page Mill Road is winding and can take about 40 minutes from I-280. Parking is limited with 37 spaces.
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Walking
If you are coming from the Audrey C. Rust Commemorative Site, you can access Russian Ridge via a trail connection. From the Rust Commemorative Site, follow the signs for the Bay Area Ridge Trail. The trail will connect to the main Russian Ridge trail system, leading you towards Borel Hill and the Ridge Trail. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles with some elevation gain.
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