Foothills Open Space Preserve

For a quick afternoon hike with your pup, look no further than the Foothills Open Space Preserve! Located adjacent to the larger Foothills Park, this 212-acre hidden gem comprises steep and forested ravines that make for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. 

You and Fido will find the preserve on Page Mills Road, less than 4 miles southwest of I-280. Look for the roadside pullout with a brown pipe gate and wood rail fence—this is the parking area, which can accommodate two vehicles. Go past the step-over stile, and you and your furry companion are now at the beginning of the park's sole trail. The trail is 0.3 miles long with a steep incline, but healthy doggos should have no problem completing the route. Follow the path past chaparral-covered slopes and oak-madrone woodland until you reach the top of the hill, where you and your pooch will be greeted by a pawsome, 360-degree view of the South Bay. On a clear day, you'll be able to look out onto San Francisco and San Jose, as well as see Mount Hamilton, Mission Peak, and the East Bay Hills.

While bikes are not allowed on the trail, you and Fido might find yourselves sharing it with horseback riders. Even if you're the only ones there, your pup is required to stay on a 6-foot leash at all times. Don't furget to bring doggie waste bags, too. There are no trash receptacles at the park, so all waste must be packed out. The Foothills Preserve is a great place for a hike any time of the year, though summers can get hot. So if you plan to visit during the warmer months, it's best to head out early. Regardless of season, always bring enough water for you and your canine hiking partner.

Enjoy a dog-friendly hike with a furrific view at the Foothills Open Space Preserve!