Windy Hill Open Space Preserve

Windy Hill is named for its distinctive, breezy grass-covered hilltop, which can be seen from many areas of the peninsula. The 1,335-acre preserve features open grassland ridges and forests of redwood, fir, and oak. Picnic tables are located adjacent to the Spring Ridge parking area — a super beginning to a day, or the perfect ending to a long hike!

Windy Hill is an ideal spot for kite flying. Hang gliding, paragliding, and remote control gliding are allowed by obtaining a special activity permit. Please see Permit Information for more information.

Recognized as a significant addition to Midpen in 1980, Windy Hill Preserve was formed in the "upper" portion with a 537-acre acquisition with major support from the Peninsula Open Space Trust. A second major purchase of 429 acres in 1987 added the "lower" portion and included the scenic backdrop of Spring Ridge.

Additional Information

Good For

Dogs

Wheelchairs

Activities

Hiking

Horseback Riding

Mountain Biking

Picnicking

Dog Walking

Geocaching

Rules & Regulations

Dogs Permitted

No Illegal Substances

Dogs On Leash

No E Bikes

Accessibility Description

Anniversary Trail • 200 ft: Trail leads to a point with views of Portola Valley, Stanford and even Mt. Diablo. Adjacent to the parking lot is a picnic area with four picnic tables.

Visit the Easy Access Opportunities page for additional information.

Regulations

Hours: Open half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset.
Dogs: Dogs are allowed only on designated trails in this Preserve. Must be controlled on a maximum 6-foot leash at all times. Dogs are allowed only in designated preserves or areas as posted. Dog walkers are required to bag and remove all dog waste from the Preserve by packing it out. Moving dog waste off trail is not permitted. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Midpen accommodates service dogs in Preserves wherever we allow public access. For more information visit the Dog Access page.
Bicyclists: Bikes are allowed on designated trails in this Preserve. Helmets are required for all riders at all times. Please observe the 15-mph trail speed limit (5-mph when passing or approaching blind turns). For more information visit the Bicycle Access page.
Equestrians: Horses are allowed on designated trails in this Preserve. Helmets are recommended for all equestrians. For more information visit the Equestrian Access page.
Groups: For safety reasons, permits are required for all groups of 20 or more people.
Permits: A use permit is required for any activity or event which: may be attended by twenty (20) or more people; OR is advertised or noticed in any publication, poster, electronic posting or flyer; OR requests/requires a fee be paid for participation. Visit the Permit page for more information.
Fires: Fires are prohibited on preserves.
Smoking: Smoking is prohibited on preserves.
Weapons: Weapons of any kind are prohibited on preserves.
Plants and Animals: Please leave plants and animals undisturbed. This not only preserves the natural environment, but is also a safety precaution.
Water Areas: Swimming wading, or engaging in any water-contact activity in any water areas of the District is prohibited.