Explore four contiguous Skyline preserves on this moderately-paced loop hike led by Docent Naturalists Anouchka Gaillard, Peter Maxwell, and Nick Yatsko. You’ll begin this counterclockwise route at Skyline Ridge Preserve before immediately entering Monte Bello Preserve. From there, you’ll wander through the 500-acre Coal Creek Preserve, enjoy views on the namesake ridge at Russian Ridge Preserve, and close the loop by returning to the parking area through Skyline Ridge Preserve. This fun trek includes 1,300 feet of elevation change and traverses multiple habitats, including shady mixed evergreen forests, chaparral, and grassy ridges. What wildlife and late summertime blooms will you see? Bring a picnic lunch for a stop along the way.
Meet at the Skyline Ridge Circle Parking Area on Skyline Boulevard located one mile south of the Skyline Blvd. (Highway 35) and Page Mill/Alpine Road intersection. After entering the preserve, turn right and go to the farthest parking area. Those traveling from I-280 on Page Mill Rd. should allow approximately 45 minutes travel time.