The best city hikes and walks in Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve
4.7
(173)
3,018
hikers
22
hikes
Urban hiking trails in Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve traverse 366 acres of varied terrain, including cool canyons, wooded areas, and sun-drenched ridge tops. The preserve features oak woodlands and chaparral, offering diverse ecosystems within a compact area. Higher elevations provide expansive views of the San Francisco Bay and the Santa Cruz Mountains. The trail network includes options for different skill levels, with some sections designed to be accessible.
Best urban hiking trails in Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve
- The…
Last updated: May 14, 2026
19
hikers
4.57km
01:17
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
7
hikers
5.22km
01:28
100m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
1
hikers
5.20km
01:19
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
11.4km
02:53
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
9.14km
02:19
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
This small lagoon offers an excellent photo opportunity for visitors and photographers alike. Its calm, crystal-clear waters create a stunning mirror-like reflection of the iconic Oracle Buildings that surround it. The tranquil setting, combined with the striking architecture, makes it an ideal spot to capture breathtaking images, especially during sunrise and sunset.
0
0
Belmont Slough is picturesque, with salt marshes filled with cordgrass and pickleweed. Along this lovely path, you can see plenty of herons and shorebirds, adding to the beauty of this part of the estuary.
0
0
The paved Foster City Levee Pedway follows the bank of Seal Slough on a scenic tour of the river's lakeshore developments. By definition, the slough is somewhere between a lake and a river; it looks like a river and feeds into San Francisco Bay, but has little to no current.
1
0
Water Dog Lake, also known as the John Brooks Memorial Open Space, is located in Belmont, California. The park features a network of trails open for hiking and mountain biking, but dogs must be kept on leash at all times.
0
0
Belmont Slough is picturesque, with salt marshes filled with cordgrass and pickleweed. As you walk along this lovely path, you can see plenty of herons and shorebirds, adding to the beauty of this part of the estuary.
0
0
This small lagoon offers an excellent photo opportunity for visitors and photographers alike. Its calm, crystal-clear waters create a stunning mirror-like reflection of the iconic Oracle Buildings that surround it. The tranquil setting, combined with the striking architecture, makes it an ideal spot to capture breathtaking images, especially during sunrise and sunset.
0
0
This lake is actually an obstructed stream, once dammed up to provide water to nearby Belmont. Now it's a fantastic recreation site, with several loops of trails that are good for hiking, running and biking.
0
0
Watch out for poison oak when hiking around Water Dog Lake! As long as you avoid the three-leaved menace, you'll find some nice dirt trails, and welcome shade from oak trees, around this lake.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many urban hiking trails are available in Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve?
Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve offers a variety of urban hiking experiences. On komoot, you'll find over 20 routes, with the majority being easy to moderate, perfect for exploring the diverse landscapes of the preserve.
Are there any easy urban hikes suitable for beginners or families in Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve?
Yes, Pulgas Ridge is very welcoming for beginners and families. Trails like the Water Dog Lake – Water Dog Lake loop from Belmont offer an easy 5.2 km experience. The preserve also features the Cordilleras Trail, which is designed to accommodate wheelchairs and strollers for a portion, providing an accessible option through a meadow.
Can I bring my dog on the urban hiking trails in Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve?
Absolutely! Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve is very dog-friendly. A significant attraction is the 17.5-acre off-leash dog area, making it an excellent spot for dog owners to enjoy the outdoors with their pets. Many trails, such as the Blue Oak Trail and Dusky-footed Woodrat Trail, connect to these off-leash areas.
What kind of scenery can I expect on an urban hike in Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve?
Hikers in Pulgas Ridge can expect a rich tapestry of environments. You'll traverse cool canyons, serene wooded areas, sun-drenched ridge tops, and open meadows. The preserve boasts oak woodlands and chaparral, offering diverse ecosystems. From higher elevations, trails like the Dick Bishop Trail provide expansive views of the San Francisco Bay and the picturesque Santa Cruz Mountains.
Are there any loop trails for urban hiking in Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve?
Yes, there are several loop options available. For example, the Redwood Shores Lagoon – Redwood Shores Lagoon loop from Belmont is an easy 2.9 km route. The Polly Geraci Trail also connects with other trails to form an easy two-mile loop, and the Dream Trail Loop is a popular moderate route, approximately 5.8 miles long, known for its varied terrain.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to look out for?
Pulgas Ridge is home to about 90 native species of trees, shrubs, ferns, and flowers, with vibrant wildflower displays in early spring. You might spot deer, especially on the eastern side of the canyon. Along the Hassler Trail, you can also find old walls and steps, which are remnants from the preserve's past as a tuberculosis sanitarium.
What is the best time of year to visit Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve for urban hiking?
The preserve is beautiful year-round, but early spring is particularly special for witnessing a vibrant display of wildflowers such as Indian warrior, hound's tongue, mule's ears, and lupine. The varied terrain also means you can find shaded sections through forests, making it enjoyable even on warmer days.
Are there any moderate urban hiking trails for a bit more challenge?
Yes, if you're looking for a moderate challenge, consider routes like the San Francisco Bay Trail: Redwood Shores Loop, which covers about 11.4 km, or the Seal Slough Trail, a 9.1 km route. These trails offer more distance and varied terrain compared to the easier options.
What do other hikers enjoy most about urban hiking in Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.67 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from cool canyons to ridge-top views of the San Francisco Bay, and the well-maintained trail system that caters to various skill levels, including dog-friendly areas.
Are there any urban hikes that offer views of the San Francisco Bay?
Yes, from its higher elevations, Pulgas Ridge provides expansive views of the San Francisco Bay. Specific trails like the Dick Bishop Trail offer sweeping views, allowing you to enjoy the urban landscape meeting natural beauty.
Are there any urban hikes along the waterfront or near sloughs?
While Pulgas Ridge itself is in the hills, the broader area offers urban hikes along the waterfront. For example, you can explore the Foster City Levee Trail: Belmont Slough or the Seal Slough Trail for a different kind of urban walking experience near the water.
Most popular routes in Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
