The best gravel rides in Windy Hill Open Space Preserve (Closed Areas)

There are 15 gravel biking routes available in Windy Hill Open Space Preserve. These trails range in difficulty from easy to difficult, offering options for various skill levels.

When gravel biking in the preserve, you are required to wear a helmet and adhere to a 15 mph speed limit, reducing to 5 mph when passing others. Always yield to hikers and equestrians. Note that e-bikes are generally not permitted on the trails.

Yes, some trails within Windy Hill Open Space Preserve are closed to bicycles year-round. These include Betsy Crowder, Razorback, Lost, and Hamms Gulch Trails. However, many designated multi-use trails are available for cyclists.

The preserve offers diverse terrain, from open grassland ridges with sweeping vistas to dense forests of redwood, fir, and oak trees. You'll find a mix of fire roads, like the Spring Ridge Trail, and other multi-use paths. Some forested areas are particularly lush due to coastal fog.

For a challenging ride with significant elevation gain, consider the Black Mountain – Arastradero Lake loop from Portola Valley, which climbs nearly 1,300 meters, or the Old La Honda Road – West Old La Honda Road loop from Portola Valley, with over 1,170 meters of ascent.

Yes, there are several moderate routes. The Old La Honda Road – Portola Road loop from Portola Valley is a good option, covering about 14 km with a moderate climb. Another choice is the White Oak Trail – Bella Vista Trail loop from Los Trancos Open Space Preserve, which is around 10 km long.

The preserve is renowned for its panoramic views. The Windy Hill Summit, at 1,905 feet, offers expansive 360-degree views of the San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean. You can also visit Sausal Pond to observe wildlife like egrets and western pond turtles, or enjoy the Bay views from the Anniversary Trail, including the Herb Grench overlook.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from open grasslands to dense forests, and the rewarding panoramic views from the higher elevations.

While the preserve offers trails of varying difficulty, some routes are quite challenging. For family-friendly options, look for the easier or shorter moderate trails. Always check the specific route details for distance and elevation to ensure it matches your family's ability.

Yes, Windy Hill is rich in biodiversity. You might encounter California mule deer, coyotes, and various bird species like white-tailed kites. Sausal Pond is a great spot for birdwatching and observing western pond turtles. Keep an eye out for banana slugs and California newts, and be aware that rattlesnakes and gopher snakes may also be present.

Yes, many of the gravel biking routes in the preserve are designed as loops. For example, the Old La Honda Road – West Old La Honda Road loop from Portola Valley and the Black Mountain – Arastradero Lake loop from Portola Valley are popular circular routes.

The preserve offers enjoyable riding conditions throughout much of the year. Spring brings wildflowers and lush greenery, while fall provides cooler temperatures and clear views. Summers can be warm, but the higher elevations and forested areas offer some relief. Winters are generally mild, though trails can be muddy after heavy rains.