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Russian Ridge Open Space preserve is an unbelievably beautiful escape from civilization, located on the ridgeline of the Santa Cruz mountains. The incredible views are totally in reach for little kids. Russian Ridge is a great place to explore on bike, but if you've got a little one with you, make the adventure a short hike to Borel Hill. From the main trailhead at the intersection of Hwy35 and Alpine/Page Mill Road, it is just ~0.8 miles on the Ridge Trail to reach Borel Hill at 2572 feet above sea level. From Borel Hill you can see San Francisco, the bay and the Pacific Ocean, as long as 'Karl the Fog' is not out to play. It really is 360 degrees of incredible views. Bring a hat (there's no shade on this route) and bring a coat if you have any question about the weather - it gets windy and chilly up on Borel Hill. Russian Ridge is also famous for its spring wildflowers, and spring 2019 surely has not disappointed! If you have more energy after making it to Borel Hill, wander around on some of the grassy spur trails, or continue north on the Ridge Trail for more fantastic views.
Bathrooms
Yes. Pot toilet at the trailhead.
Playground
No
Kid transportation
Walking or child carrier. Too steep for strollers. Bikes are allowed, but too steep for trailers.
Suggested Route
Park at the Russian Ridge Open Space Trailhead at the intersection of Hwy35 and Page Mill/Alpine Road. Head north on the Ridge Trail towards Borel Hill. After ~0.7 miles, take the short spur trail on the right to go up to the Borel Hill Vista. Head back the way you came. ~1.5 miles roundtrip. There are a couple of short spur trails off the main Ridge Trail that you can do some exploring on as well.
Difficulty
Moderate. Steep at times, but short.
Parking Situation
Moderate. Could fill up on weekends during the wildflower bloom.
Entrance Fee
None
Bonus
Beautiful flowers in late April and early May. Unbelievable ocean view and San Francisco view on a clear day.
Official Park Website
https://www.openspace.org/preserves/russian-ridge Trail map: https://www.openspace.org/sites/default/files/map_RR.pdf
Date Updated
May 2019
