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The Dish – Stanford Dish Hiking Trailhead loop from Stanford

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Hiking trails & Routes

The Dish – Stanford Dish Hiking Trailhead loop from Stanford

Easy

4.9

(1702)

17,699

hikers

The Dish – Stanford Dish Hiking Trailhead loop from Stanford

01:31

5.30km

130m

Hiking

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.

Last updated: April 30, 2026

Tips

Temporary access restrictions

Includes segments with temporary access restrictions. Check ahead to confirm restricted segments are open to the public.

After 449 m for 4.41 km

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

2.63 km

The Dish

Highlight • Trail

The Dish, or the Stanford Dish, is a huge, 150-foot-diameter radio antenna. Built in 1961 by the Stanford Research Institute, it is still in use by the university today and is a popular hiking destination. In addition to views of the Stanford Dish, you also get panoramic views of the surrounding foothills and, on clear days, the San Francisco skyline. The area is known for its wildlife, including various bird species, so be on the lookout as you explore The Dish.

Tip by

5.19 km

Stanford Dish Hiking Trailhead

Highlight • Trail

The Stanford Dish hiking area—named after the iconic radio telescope perched in the foothills—is one of the most popular outdoor spots near campus. The main entry point is at Stanford Avenue and Junipero Serra Boulevard, where you’ll find a wide gate, maps, and signage outlining the loop.

From the entrance, the paved trail climbs steadily into open grasslands, offering sweeping views of the Stanford campus, Santa Clara Valley, and the Santa Cruz Mountains. The trail is open to walkers, runners, and hikers (no bikes or dogs), and is especially popular in the mornings and late afternoons. There’s no shade, so bring water and sun protection. Expect rolling hills, scenic vistas, and plenty of local wildlife.

Tip by

5.30 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

5.30 km

Surfaces

5.15 km

124 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Friday 15 May

22°C

9°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 30.0 km/h

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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

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The Dish – Stanford Dish Hiking Trailhead loop from Stanford

The Dish

Stanford Dish Hiking Trailhead

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