Los Trancos Open Space Preserve is a 274-acre area located in the Santa Cruz Mountains above Palo Alto. This is an ideal spot to learn about earthquake geology. The San Andreas Fault, one of the world's longest and most active faults, splits the preserve.

Enjoy the 1.5-mile self-guided tour the San Andreas Fault Trail.

Los Trancos Open Space Preserve is situated at about 2,000 feet and always has fresh air scented with pungent bay leaves, sweet grass, and damp woods. Here, visitors will find a pleasant environment of rolling grassland knolls alternating with oak woodland and cool shaded forest. On a clear day, one can spot the gleaming skyscrapers of San Francisco and pick out Mt. Diablo across the bay. A five-mile trail system is available for visitor enjoyment.

HOW TO GET THERE

The preserve's entrance is on Page Mill Road, 7 miles west of Highway 280 and 1.5 miles east of Skyline Boulevard. Parking is available for 20 vehicles. Additional parking and restroom facilities are available at the Monte Bello Open Space Preserve parking area, located directly across Page Mill Road.

Download a map of Los Trancos Open Space Preserve

For an easy interactive location map, click Google local directions.