Enter the forest in search of a majestic, centuries-old oak grove with Docent Naturalists Laura Levin and Emma Finter. As you follow the Ancient Oaks Trail on this leisurely-paced walk, you'll stop frequently to observe natural treasures of this habitat, the oak-bay woodland. Upon reaching the old, gnarled oaks, you may wonder, "Why are these trees so unusually massive? How did they survive early 20th century logging?" After exploring the grove and discussing answers to these questions, you'll retrace your steps to the trailhead, gaining a total of 200 feet of elevation on this hike.
Meet at the Mindego Gateway Parking Area on Alpine Road. From I-280, exit Page Mill Road and head west. Drive about 9 miles to the junction with Skyline Boulevard, cross over Skyline Blvd. and on to Alpine Road. Continue on Alpine Rd. for 1.5 miles. Parking area is on the right. Allow 45 minutes travel time from I-280.