Windy Hill Open Space Preserve is named because it is windy. So windy, there are very little trees near at the top. The result: a trail gives a great view of San Francisco Bay and Peninsula cities. A short trail circles around a Windy Hill top next to Skyline Boulevard. This open space is connected all the way down to the Portola valley. At the valley, a tranquil pond awaits you.

Secluded from the busy Skyline Boulevard, the Long Ridge Open Space Preserve gives a quiet but very fine view. Bring your chair and favorite book to enjoy the pleasant afternoon. Long ridge trail give a view of Santa Cruz Mountain, Pescadero Creek, and even Monterey Bay.

One of my favorite hikes are in Monte Bello Open Space Preserve, Italian for "beautiful mountain", and the trails to the top of the Black Mountain. There is a camping area (only one in the open preserve!) as well. A long trail along the Stevens Creek is also very popular among mountain bikers. You can hike to the Black Mountain from the Peninsula cities at the bottom of the bay. Please check out the Ranchos San Antonio Open Space Preserve.

Hidden Villa, a non-profit organic farm and wilderness preserve, offers many interesting features such as the oldest existing hostel in the US, animal farms, and many trails. The trail to the Elephant Mountain was full of trees covered by greenish moss. The view of the Los Altos Hills were gorgeous (and gorgeous houses as well). The trail connects to the Rancho San Antonio Open Space. The only complaint is the $5 parking fee. Ouch!