The best walks and hikes around Atherton
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Hiking around Atherton explores a landscape of rolling hills, dense woodlands, and open space preserves. The region is characterized by its network of trails that wind through county parks and wildlife refuges, offering a mix of shaded forest paths and more exposed routes. The terrain varies from gentle, flat trails around baylands to steeper climbs within the wooded hillsides.
Best hiking trails around Atherton
- The most popular hiking route is Stanford Campus Walk, a 3.4 miles (5.5 km) trail that takes 1 hour 24 minutes to complete. This easy route features minimal elevation gain through the university grounds.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Arroyo Ojo De Agua Loop, an easy 1.0 mile (1.7 km) path. This trail offers a short, gentle walk with some elevation through a natural area.
- Local hikers also love the San Francisco Bay Trail: Bedwell Bayfront Park Loop, a 3.5 miles (5.7 km) trail leading through a bayfront park, often completed in about 1 hour 28 minutes.
- Hiking around Atherton is defined by wooded hills, open space preserves, and trails along the baylands. The network of paths provides options for different ability levels, from easy hikes to more strenuous routes.
- The routes in Atherton are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 260 reviews. More than 4,300 hikers have used komoot to explore Atherton's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
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4
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5.52km
01:24
10m
10m
Embark on the Stanford Campus Walk, an easy hiking route that guides you through the heart of Stanford University. This pleasant stroll covers 3.4 miles (5.5 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 35 feet (11 metres), making it accessible for nearly everyone. You can expect to complete the entire loop in about 1 hours and 23 minutes, enjoying the unique blend of academic architecture and serene green spaces. As you hike, you will pass by the iconic sandstone buildings of the Main Quad and the impressive Memorial Church, offering a glimpse into the university's rich heritage and design.
When planning your visit, be aware that parking on the Stanford University campus can sometimes be challenging, especially during busy periods or special events. It is a good idea to check the campus parking regulations and availability beforehand to ensure a smooth start to your hike. While service animals are always welcome, please note that pets are generally not permitted on certain specific campus trails, such as the Stanford Dish, so plan accordingly if you are bringing an animal companion.
This route offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse beauty of Stanford University's grounds, showcasing not only its iconic architecture but also its beautifully designed gardens. You can wander through areas like the Stanford Arboretum, which provides a tranquil escape with its varied plant collections. The trail highlights the campus's commitment to blending academic life with natural beauty, making it a notable and distinctive experience within the region.
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1.67km
00:27
30m
30m
Embark on an easy hike along the Arroyo Ojo De Agua Loop, a refreshing escape within Stulsaft Park. This short route covers 1.0 miles (1.7 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 83 feet (25 metres), making it perfect for a quick outing. You can expect a pleasant walk through wooded areas and open spaces, offering a sense of calm and fresh air. The entire loop takes approximately 27 minutes to complete, providing a brief but enjoyable immersion in nature. It is an ideal choice when you need a moment outdoors without committing to a longer excursion. You will find the easy difficulty rating makes it accessible for most fitness levels.
To plan your visit, head to Stulsaft Park in Redwood City, California, where the Arroyo Ojo De Agua Loop begins. Parking is generally available directly at the park, offering convenient access to the trailhead. Before you set out, it is always a good idea to check local park signs for any specific rules, regulations, or potential fees that might apply. This ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience, allowing you to focus on the natural beauty of the surroundings. Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more tranquil experience.
Stulsaft Park itself is a notable green space within Redwood City, known for its diverse natural environment that supports both wooded areas and open fields. This combination creates a varied landscape for your hike, showcasing the local flora and providing a pleasant backdrop for your activity. The park serves as an important natural amenity for the community, offering a readily accessible location for outdoor recreation. It is a great example of urban nature, providing a quick connection to the outdoors for city dwellers.
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5
hikers
5.67km
01:29
40m
40m
Explore the easy 3.5-mile Bedwell Bayfront Park Loop, offering bay views, birdwatching, and unique art along the San Francisco Bay Trail.
22
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.53km
00:54
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A sculpture made by Augustin Rodnin
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The Main Quad and Memorial Court are part of Stanford University's academic preserve. Memorial Court features The Burghers of Calais by Auguste Rodin, from the largest Rodin sculpture collection outside Paris.
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This 160-acre park is surrounded on three sides by the San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge, making it an excellent place to spot wildlife, especially of the winged variety.
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The trails in the park are fantastic, winding pathways that offer you the choice of how you want to explore the area. These trails lead to elevated vantage points that boast spectacular views of the former salt ponds of the south bay, especially during sunset. They are suitable for both hiking and biking and are a great addition to your journey along the San Francisco Bay Trail or a place to spend the day enjoying the views.
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This stunning park spans 160 acres and is surrounded on three sides by the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. It features an extensive trail system (some paved, mostly unpaved) that is open to both hikers and cyclists, providing ample opportunity to explore the park's hills and viewpoints. There is plenty of parking, restrooms, a water bottle filling station, and lovely benches throughout the grounds, making it an ideal setting for spending a day outdoors.
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The Main Quad is the oldest part of Stanford University. The cornerstone of the Quad was laid in May of 1887 and completed in 1905. This 17-acre hallmark of the university is a great place to run through and take in the history.
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This is a public access Arboretum on the grounds of Stanford University and predates the university itself. Today the collection of native and non-native trees has more than 350 species from all over the world.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the Atherton area?
Yes, the region offers several gentle trails perfect for families or a relaxed walk. A great option is the Bedwell Bayfront Park loop, which is a mostly flat walk with open views. Another excellent choice is the trail to Schilling Lake, a short and accessible path in the Thornewood Open Space Preserve.
What are some good places for hiking around Atherton?
The area is rich with excellent hiking spots. Wunderlich County Park is a local favorite, known for its extensive network of trails through redwood and oak forests. For coastal scenery and birdwatching, the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a top destination. Thornewood Open Space Preserve offers quieter, shaded trails, while Bedwell Bayfront Park provides open, sunny paths with views of the bay.
Are there any challenging hikes for more experienced hikers?
Definitely. For those seeking a strenuous workout with significant elevation gain, the Alambique & Skyline Trail Loop in Wunderlich County Park is a demanding route that rewards hikers with a deep immersion in the region's woodlands. It's a long trail that requires good fitness.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the trails?
The terrain around Atherton is quite varied. You'll find everything from flat, paved, or gravel paths in the baylands areas like the Don Edwards Wildlife Refuge to steep, dirt single-track trails in the wooded hills of Wunderlich County Park. Many trails are well-shaded under a canopy of redwood and oak trees, while others are more exposed.
How many hiking trails are available around Atherton?
There are over 160 hiking routes to explore in and around Atherton. The network includes a wide variety of trails, from short, easy walks to challenging all-day hikes, ensuring there's something for every skill level.
What do other hikers think of the trails in this area?
The trails around Atherton are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful redwood forests in parks like Wunderlich, and the peaceful atmosphere of the open space preserves.
Are there any circular or loop trails available?
Yes, many of the most popular hikes are loop trails, allowing you to enjoy a varied journey without retracing your steps. A great moderate option is the Bear Gulch & Alambique Trail loop, which takes you on a scenic circuit through Wunderlich County Park.
Where can I find trails suitable for wildlife viewing?
For wildlife and birdwatching, your best bet is the Inner Bair Island via San Francisco Bay Trail. This trail runs through a national wildlife refuge, offering excellent opportunities to see shorebirds and other marshland creatures in their natural habitat.
Are there any good shaded hikes for hot days?
Many trails in the area are perfect for warm weather thanks to ample tree cover. The routes within Wunderlich County Park and Thornewood Open Space Preserve are particularly well-shaded by redwood, madrone, and oak trees, providing a cool escape from the sun.
What are the parking situations at the main trailheads?
Most of the county parks and open space preserves, such as Wunderlich County Park and Bedwell Bayfront Park, have dedicated parking lots near the main trailheads. However, these spots can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. It's always a good idea to arrive early to secure a space.
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