Rancho San Antonio County Park & Open Space Preserve — Attraction in Los Altos

I really enjoy this trail. Easy to get to. Lots of parking. Good trails. Not a ton of people.

Let's start from the beginning. Parking. This reserve has a lot of full sun areas so most people are here before 9am on weekends. They have multiple lots, but the bottom most lot is the largest and is closest to the reserve entrance and bathrooms. The closer to 9am you get there, the harder it'll be to find a spot.

As for the trails itself, wear trail running shoes or sneakers you're okay with getting dirty. It's all dirt paths. Also watch out for horse poop.

Bikers are allowed in parts but dogs are not. Parking is also free.

They have bike lanes but they're not labeled well so everyone just walks wherever. It's never been a problem when I've been there though because the paths are wide.

As for the trails itself. There's a lot of shorter ones that when combined, become longer hikes. We've always gone to the lookout points so you get a 4 mile uphill climb to about 1000ft, then 4 miles back down. You can combine some so they're 11-13 miles if you want something longer or more difficult. Same with the other way around. You can stay on the flatter beginning path for an easier walk.

As for the sights, they got it going on. Lookout trails have beautiful views. Tons of nature, hills and views like the Apple donut campus, NASA building and redwood City salt mines (are they mines?... Lake?...)... They also have goats. So that's cute.

Most trails are part sun and part shade so wear breathable clothing, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. I've definitely seen some women wearing very little because of the heat, but they're beat red and don't even realize how burnt they are.

Trails are pretty wide for the most part. A few spots where we walk single file because of hikers coming the other way. These are not trails for strollers. If you bring one, stick to the easy flat part only, don't attempt the harder hikes because of the elevation.

They have bathrooms at the lowest level parking lot, and two portapotties further in on the flat area. No bathrooms higher up.

Overall, it's a really nice hike that's quiet and challenging but not too long. I also like that the first half is uphill while the second part is downhill. I've definitely done it the other way and...

I found Rancho San Antonio County Park & Open Space Preserve. Now, I'll get more details about the park to write a review. Rancho San Antonio County Park & Open Space Preserve is a fantastic destination for outdoor activities. Here's a review based on available information: Rancho San Antonio County Park & Open Space Preserve This park is a true gem for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages! It offers a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, and even model airplane flying. The park is well-maintained and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills. Highlights: Kid-friendly: The park is incredibly kid-friendly, with plenty of space to run around and explore. There is also a farm, Deer Hollow Farm, where children can interact with animals. Accessible: The park is highly accessible, with wheelchair-accessible parking and entrances. Beautiful scenery: The park is located in the hills and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Black Mountain offers views of Stevens Creek Canyon and the Santa Clara Valley. Well-maintained trails: Over 25 miles of trails are well-maintained and cater to a range of activities. Popular trails include the Chamise Trail, Stephen E. Abbors Trail, and the Wildcat Loop Trail. Abundant wildlife: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, rabbits, wild turkeys, and raptors. Things to keep in mind: Parking can be crowded: Parking can be a challenge, especially on weekends and holidays. It is recommended to arrive early or use the park's shuttle service. Real-time parking availability is displayed at the entrance and online. Dogs are not allowed: Dogs are not allowed in the park. Regulations: The preserve has several regulations to ensure visitor safety and protect the environment, including restrictions on dogs, designated trails for bicycles and horses, and a prohibition on fires and smoking. Overall: Rancho San Antonio County Park & Open Space Preserve is a wonderful place to spend a day outdoors. The park offers something for everyone, and the stunning scenery is...

Rancho San Antonio is the Bay Area’s go-to preserve for reliable, diverse hiking and family-friendly outdoor time.

The Deer Hollow Farm Loop and Meadow Trail are popular, flat circuits ideal for families. These lead you to the historic Deer Hollow Farm — a working homestead where kids can glimpse chickens, goats, and even a cow . It’s a peaceful, educational experience away from the Silicon Valley hustle. A short walk up, the more challenging Wildcat, Black Mountain, and PG&E trails add elevation and scenic variety, offering sweeping valley views — especially from Black Mountain’s summit along Monte Bello Ridge .

Parking, however, is a known pain point. With six lots totaling over 300 spaces (plus rhus‐ridge overflow), the gates open at 8 a.m., but on weekends, lots fill fast . Tip: arrive before 7:30 a.m. on weekends—or try the pedestrian entrance under I‑280 near Los Altos via residential streets for a quick 5‑minute walk . Midpen offers live parking updates and encourages biking or ride‑hail options .

Trail conditions are well-maintained gravel or dirt, clearly marked, and shade-filled—perfect for hot weather hikes . Amenities include bathrooms and water fountains at several spots (though some users say more would be nice) . Creekside boardwalks and occasional bridges along shady trails add charm and ease of access.

Wildlife is abundant—visitors regularly spot deer, wild turkeys, quail, squirrels, and occasional bobcats or mountain lions (though rarely) . Interpretive signage, plus the farm and historical walking trails, offer both education and nature immersion. The preserve’s connectivity, linking to Monte Bello and Permanente Ridge, gives seasoned hikers the option to build longer...