Windy Hill Open Space Preserve

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Portola Rd. Portola Valley, California

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Windy Hill Open Space Preserve in Portola Valley, California - Main Image

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FAQ

Windy Hill Open Space Preserve – Frequently Asked Questions
General Information
Q: Where is Windy Hill Open Space Preserve located?
A: Windy Hill Open Space Preserve is located in Portola Valley, California. It’s situated near Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District.
Q: What kind of activities are available at Windy Hill Open Space Preserve?
A: The preserve offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, dog walking (with restrictions), and enjoying scenic views.
Q: When was Windy Hill Open Space Preserve established?
A: The preserve was established in 1931.
Q: Who manages Windy Hill Open Space Preserve?
A: The Portola Valley Parks and Recreation Department manages the preserve.
Dog Access & Rules
Q: Are dogs allowed at Windy Hill Open Space Preserve?
A: Yes, dogs are allowed on-leash within the preserve.
Q: What are the leash rules?
A: Visitors must keep their dogs on a leash 6 feet or less. Self-retracting leashes are permitted with a maximum extension of 25 feet, and must be locked when in the presence of other visitors.
Q: Are there any restrictions on the number of dogs I can bring?
A: Visitors are limited to a maximum of three dogs per person.
Q: What should I do if my dog poops?
A: You must always clean up after your dog and pack out all dog waste. Do not leave waste behind.
Q: Are dogs allowed in water areas?
A: No, dogs are not allowed in any Midpen water areas, including streams or ponds.
Q: What if my dog disturbs wildlife?
A: Visitors are encouraged to respect wildlife and avoid disturbing natural habitats.
Trail Information & Difficulty
Q: What kind of trails are available?
A: The preserve offers a network of trails including Windy Hill, Spring Ridge, Betsy Crowder, Sequoias, Eagle, Meadow, Hamms Gulch and Anniversary Trails – connecting the main trails.
Q: What is the difficulty level of the trails?
A: Trails are moderate in difficulty and suitable for hikers, ADA access, dogs on leash, equestrians, and bicyclists.
Q: How long are the trails?
A: The preserve offers 12 miles of trails.
Q: Are there any trail maps available?
A: Yes, you can find trail maps and explore the right trail using the Midpen Trail Explorer Tool: [https://opendata-mrosd.hub.arcgis.com/pages/find-the-right-trail](https://opendata-mrosd.hub.arcgis.com/pages/find-the-right-trail)
Parking & Other Considerations
Q: Where can I park?
A: Designated parking areas are available at the end of Northgate Road (in Walnut Creek) and Diablo Road (in Danville). Parking is restricted during wet conditions.
Q: What should I bring?
A: Bring water and first aid, as cell service is limited. Ticks are common, and the preserve is native to this region.
Q: Are there any restrictions on bicycle use?
A: Bicycles are permitted only on designated trails. Helmets are required.
Q: What if I encounter wildlife?
A: Exercise caution and respect wildlife. While golden eagles and California condors are present, they are less easily seen than many raptors.
Q: Are there any other facilities available?
A: Bike racks, tire cleaning stations, and benches are available.
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About

Windy Hill Open Space Preserve: Your Adventure Awaits in Portola Valley Windy Hill Open Space Preserve, nestled in Portola Valley, California, offers a remarkable outdoor experience for visitors and dog owners alike.

This expansive 6-foot leash area, part of the larger Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, provides a fantastic opportunity to explore diverse landscapes, from grassy ridges and redwood forests to scenic views of the San Francisco Bay and Pacific Ocean.

Established in 1931 and significantly expanded through acquisitions, including the “upper” Spring Ridge and “lower” Spring Ridge areas, the preserve has become a vital recreational space and a valuable habitat for local wildlife.

Key Features and Activities The preserve boasts over 12 miles of trails catering to a variety of skill levels.

The primary trail system includes Spring Ridge, Betsy Crowder, Sequoias, Eagle, Meadow, Hamms Gulch, and Anniversary Trails, creating a connected network for exploration.

These trails offer moderate difficulty, making them suitable for hikers, ADA access users, dog walkers, and bicyclists.

Please note that bicycle use is restricted to designated trails and helmets are required.

Wildlife and Natural Wonders Windy Hill Open Space Preserve is a recognized haven for wildlife.

The preserve’s design specifically aims to protect the habitat of native animals, including badgers and burrowing owls, which are regularly monitored through iNaturalist data collection efforts.

Visitors may also observe a diverse range of bird species, particularly golden eagles and bald eagles, especially during winter months.

While rattlesnakes are present, they are generally shy and rarely aggressive.

Keep an eye out for other wildlife like tarantula spiders and, historically, the now-extinct Diablo elk.

Important Rules and Considerations To ensure the preservation of this natural area, several guidelines must be followed: Leash Requirement: All dogs must be kept on a 6-foot leash at all times.

Self-retracting leashes are permitted with a maximum extension of 25 feet, and must be locked when in the presence of other visitors.

Wildlife Protection: Dogs can disrupt the habitats of native wildlife.

Stay on marked trails and avoid disturbance.

Waste Management: Always clean up after your dog by packing out all dog waste.

Do not leave waste behind.

Respectful Behavior: Dogs are not allowed in any Midpen water areas, including streams or ponds.

Parking and Access: Designated parking areas are available, but spaces are limited and enforced, particularly during wet conditions.

Resources for Further Information * Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Trail Explorer Tool: [https://opendata-mrosd.hub.arcgis.com/pages/find-the-right-trail](https://opendata-mrosd.hub.arcgis.com/pages/find-the-right-trail) – This tool allows you to find the perfect trail based on your preferences. * Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Website: [https://www.openspace.org/](https://www.openspace.org/) – Find additional information, trail maps, and event announcements.

Planning Your Visit Windy Hill Open Space Preserve is a rewarding destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Be sure to check the weather conditions before your visit and bring water, sunscreen, and appropriate footwear.

With its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and well-maintained trails, Windy Hill Open Space Preserve promises a memorable experience for the whole family – and your furry companion.

Remember to respect the environment and follow all posted regulations to help preserve this valuable natural resource for generations to come.

History

Windy Hill Open Space Preserve boasts a rich history, evolving from a largely undeveloped area into a valued recreational and ecological space.

The preserve’s origins trace back to the early 20th century, with its formation largely shaped by the establishment of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (MROSD).

The area was initially acquired through a pilot program demonstrating the value of open space preservation in the region.

The preserve’s development was significantly influenced by the 1980 acquisition of the “upper” portion – a 537-acre area – and the “lower” scenic Spring Ridge.

This strategic acquisition transformed a largely undeveloped landscape into a cohesive open space preserve.

The initial focus was on developing trails and providing recreational opportunities for the community.

Throughout its history, the preserve has been managed through a dedicated program promoting responsible pet ownership and environmental stewardship.

This included the implementation of waste disposal bins, emphasizing visitor responsibility.

Furthermore, the preserve's location played a crucial role in regional broadcasting.

The prominence of Mount Diablo, which served as the signal location for radio station KSBR-FM and television station KOVR, significantly impacted the region's media landscape.

The station's operations from Mount Diablo even influenced its eventual relocation to Butte Mountain in Jackson.

Today, Windy Hill Open Space Preserve remains a vital part of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District's portfolio, offering a diverse range of recreational activities while continuing to protect native wildlife and contribute to the ecological health of the Diablo Range.

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