Windy Hill Summit — Local services in Portola Valley

Windy Hill Summit offers a sunset unlike any other in the Bay Area. Sitting high above the 1335-acre Windy Hill Open Space Preserve, Windy Hill offers sweeping views of the Santa Cruz mountains and Pacific ocean to the west, and the Bay Area to the East. The quickest way to reach the summit is via Anniversary Trail. This 1 mile loop trail is accessible via the Anniversary Trail Parking area along Skyline Blvd (California Hgwy 35). Looking for more adventure? Alternatively, you can reach the summit via a 7.5 mile hike from at the base of the preserve. This more strenuous hike is accessible from the parking area on Portola road, and features 1400 feet of elevation gain. If you do choose to visit Windy Hill for sunset, be aware that local wildlife, including mountain lions, become more active at dusk. Traveling in a group is typically the safest choice. Be sure to bring a blanket, a thermos of coffee, and some of your favorite snacks. Then, settle in for this remarkable...

Always a great location to come see the whole Bay Area, and the Pacific Ocean, all within a full 360° view. We always bring family here when they visit. The hike is .50 miles from the southern parking lot to the top, 1 mile for the whole thing. The trail is well groomed and suited for all levels of hikers. The flowers are in bloom, the the environment is in the name, windy so bring a jacket if you get cold easily.

If you are looking for more of a challenge, there are trails from the parking lot below, which is about 5 miles round trip. You can either take the main fire road up, or there is a wooded trail just to the South. Both are great but it’s a...

Amazing trail, I tried the 2.4 miles trail which has 1235ft elevation. It was a great experience and a moderately challenging hike. The view on top is worth the effort and as the name goes it is super windy from the top. I would recommend sunglasses and water for the trail because half of the path is in shadow but the other half is exposed to the sun. It closes at 7pm so plan accordingly but the sunset views are amazing...