Windy Hill Open Space Preserve

Does your dog like to feel the cool breeze rush through their fur? How about a hike through beautiful terrain? If you answered yes, then it’s time for a trip to Windy Hill Open Space. Leash up your pup and head over to explore this pawsome network of trails.

Located on the Bay Area’s peninsula, Windy Hill Open Space gives visitors a chance to experience the glorious Santa Cruz Mountains. Eight trails equaling just over a dozen miles meander through a puptacular combination of grasslands ridges and groves of redwoods, fir and oak trees. While pups are welcome to enjoy the open space, they are not allowed on Razorback and Lost Trails. But don’t worry, there’s still plenty of terrain for them to discover.

Spring Ridge Trail is one of the more pupular trails in the open space. Since it’s a dirt road and not a single track, cyclists love it. It’s a bit steep, but while your pooch is huffing and puffing up the hill, they can gaze out over the forested landscape below. Once at the top, take a short detour to Anniversary Trail and stop by Herb Grench Overlook. Either return the way you came, or connect to Hamms Gulch Trail via Lost Trail for a nice loop (note: dogs are allowed on the section of Lost Trail that connects Anniversary and Hamms Gulch Trails).

While there are some forested sections of the open space, much of the trails are exposed and lack shade. During the summer months, it’s better to hike this trail in the early morning or evenings. Restrooms and drinking water can be found at the Portola Road trailhead. Pets and their people love this place, so be sure to pick up after your pup to help minimize the canine refuse. Make no mistake; the Windy Hill Open Space is a pawfect place to spend quality time with your furry BFF!