Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve — Attraction in San Carlos

Dog friendly, one way trails, good views, and a decent elevation gain! All in all, a nice Sunday stroll. Took the Polly Geraci Trail to the Hassler Trail to the vista point, and was bummed it didn’t connect to the Memorial Vista Point off Hwy 280 (there’s a gate in the way) because I love the view of the reservoir from there, but there were great views of the Silicon Valley regardless. Then took the Dusty-footed Woodrat Trail, which I probably would have taken just for the name, up and around to some more great views along the ridge. It was overcast weather today, so the ~365 foot elevation gain and 3.6 mile trip was fairly easy. There was good tree cover most of the way except on the ridge, so this shouldn’t be terrible on a hot day, but bring water.

Although there was a decent amount of people, they mostly stuck to the lower parts of the hill, and the crowds thinned away at the top.

Finally, I appreciated the one way trail that the reserve set up. Almost everyone followed the process, so it was nice not having to cross paths with people too often in these still COVID times. Plus, the poison oak is turning purple so trying to step to the side is easier...

Tip: Nearest trash can is at Edgewood Park, really close and hard to miss. The bin is in the main parking. You can be in and out in less than 1 minute. Dogs are not allowed in Edgewood Park so ensure your furry friend will not go out of your car.

My husband and I would pick up improperly disregarded poop bags along the way and dispose the bags elsewhere. Please consider doing the same to keep our beloved Pulgas Ridge Park clean. Kudos to Kiara’s (the husky) dad for starting this. Remember, it only takes one person to rectify the mistakes of many people.

Loving the off-leash dog area! It is better than our local dog park.

Parking is an issue but you can always wait or park by the street. A restroom is available to use - it is okay, clean and tolerable to use.

Bring your poop bag and dispose it properly. Don’t leave it in the park. No trash...

Short (couple miles) hike, good mix of nice shady areas and open areas under the hot sun. Little field bunnies and lizards frequently cross your path. Go about 1/3 mile in to escape the I-280 noise hell, typical 1950's mentality to divide the Bay Area's open space with a massive freeway. Once in a little ways the freeway buzz is gone and you can pretend to be in nature, lots of critters around, if you can tune out the faint hum of small-plane noise in the distance. Signposts are really confusing as they don't seem to distinguish trails from vehicle...