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Windy Hill Summit

Windy Hill Summit

Highlight • Summit

Windy Hill Summit

Hiking

5.0

(25)

This Highlight is in a protected area

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Windy Hill Open Space Preserve

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Location: Portola Valley, San Mateo County, California, United States

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Tips

Rama

June 30, 2025

Hiking

The hike from Razorback Ridge trailhead to the Windyhill summit is mostly through shaded sections. Sections of it kept cool from the fog rolling in from the Santa Cruz Mountains. The final section, Anniversary Trail is out in the open but has nice views of the bay.

Alex

September 15, 2024

Hiking

Windy Hill Summit, located at an elevation of 1,905 feet within the Windy Hill Open Space Preserve, offers great views of Silicon Valley and the Peninsula. The preserve stretches 1,132 acres along the east side of the Santa Cruz Mountains, coming up from the valley road near Portola Valley to this scenic summit. It’s a great spot to watch the sunset and take in views.

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Nearby routes

Best routes near Windy Hill Summit

4.9

(30)

328

hikers

#1.

Hamms Gulch to Spring Ridge Loop

10.3km

03:10

390m

380m

Embark on the Hamms Gulch to Spring Ridge Loop, a moderate hiking adventure that takes you through the varied landscapes of Windy Hill Open Space Preserve. This 6.4-mile (10.3 km) route offers a rewarding experience, guiding you from the cool, shaded redwood and bay laurel groves of the gulches to the expansive, grassy ridges. You will gain 1275 feet (389 metres) in elevation, and the journey typically takes around 3 hours and 9 minutes to complete, culminating in panoramic views from the Windy Hill Summit that stretch across the San Francisco Bay and the Santa Cruz Mountains.

When planning your visit, be aware that the Hamms Gulch Trail can become quite muddy during the wet winter months. Conversely, sections of the Spring Ridge Trail may have rutted paths with loose gravel when dry, so choose your footwear accordingly. Parking is generally available at the trailhead, but it is always a good idea to check local regulations before you go. Remember that some wider parts of the trail are multi-use, meaning you might share the path with horseback riders and mountain bikers.

This loop is particularly notable for showcasing nearly all of Windy Hill's diverse ecosystems within a single hike. If you visit in spring, you will be treated to a vibrant display of wildflowers, including California buttercups and lupines, adding splashes of color to the landscape. The trail offers a unique opportunity to experience the ecological transitions of the preserve, from dense forest to open ridgetop, making it a standout option for exploring the region's natural beauty.

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Moderate

5.0

(2)

125

hikers

#2.