Foothills Park
Foothills Park offers diverse experiences, from serene nature preserves with scenic trails in Palo Alto to a vibrant skate park in Glendale.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Foothills Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Foothills Park offers diverse experiences, from serene nature preserves with scenic trails in Palo Alto to a vibrant skate park in Glendale.
"A beautiful park with stunning views, though parking and skate park rules can be points of discussion."
🚗 Parking Pointers
Parking can be limited, especially during events. Arrive early or consider carpooling.
👟 Trail Ready
Wear comfortable shoes for hiking; some trails can be steep or uneven.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panorama Trail & Bobcat Point
Palo Alto
Hike these trails for stunning 360-degree views of the Bay Area and surrounding Santa Cruz mountains.
Boronda Lake Loop
Palo Alto
A gentle 0.75-mile loop offering a pleasant walk around the lake, perfect for a relaxed outing.
Skate Park
Glendale
A popular spot for skaters, though rules regarding scooters and bikes have caused some debate among users.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Park Access & Fees
+1Navigating the Park
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Pointers
Parking can be limited, especially during events. Arrive early or consider carpooling.
👟 Trail Ready
Wear comfortable shoes for hiking; some trails can be steep or uneven.
💰 Resident vs. Non-Resident
Palo Alto residents enjoy free entry, while others pay a $6 fee.
🛴 Skatepark Rules
Be aware of current skatepark regulations regarding scooters and bikes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Pointers
Parking can be limited, especially during events. Arrive early or consider carpooling.
👟 Trail Ready
Wear comfortable shoes for hiking; some trails can be steep or uneven.
💰 Resident vs. Non-Resident
Palo Alto residents enjoy free entry, while others pay a $6 fee.
🛴 Skatepark Rules
Be aware of current skatepark regulations regarding scooters and bikes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate Foothills Park for its natural beauty and scenic trails, particularly in Palo Alto, and its popular skate park in Glendale. However, some note issues with parking availability and occasional rule enforcement at the skate park, which has led to community discussions.
"I came to have a quiet walk along the trails, but they were closed off due to the rain. So as I was walking around the rest of the park, kids were driving on the path on motor bikes! Did not make me feel safe or comfortable."
Leticia Siqueiros
"The skate park is the best! My kids and I love it. Most skaters are friendly, some aren't. Bikers should have a separate area so as not to mix with skaters."
Jennifer Nedzel
"Great skatepark. . . . Currently ranking in as the #1 favorite outdoor skatepark location for the 4th week in a row (according to my son)!!! Since my original review there have been many times that the park ranger comes and kicks out the people riding scooters and bikes in this skatepark. I don't understand how skateboards are allowed and scooters are not. The ranger actually kicked out my son and his friend in the middle of there free time because they were on scooters. How wrong is this? It leaves these kids feeling discriminated against and then they have nothing to do. Why can't kids that prefer scooters over skateboards participate at this skatepark? There needs to be some updates to the rules at this skatepark. Town meetings need to be attended by parents and somebody needs to speak up. It seems that the city of Glendale should use there time more wisely and put in an effort to change the rules to allow scooters or by creating a skatepark that welcomes scooter riders as well instead of sending kids that prefer to ride scooters out to the streets with idle time and no place to practice what they are passionate about. Would you rather have them tagging the walls in the neighborhood. . . . This is 2025 please revise the rules of the park to allow scooters to participate in using the resources available to skateboard riders only."
Audrey Savage
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Foothills Park is located at 11799 Page Mill Road, Palo Alto, CA 94304. It's accessible by car, with parking available within the park.
Information on public transportation options to Foothills Park can be limited. It's best to check local transit schedules or consider ride-sharing services.
From Highway 280, take the Page Mill Road exit and head west. The park entrance will be on your right.
No, there are multiple parks named Foothills Park. The one in Glendale is known for its skate park, while the Palo Alto location is a nature preserve.
Glendora, California, is known as the 'Pride of the Foothills' and has a history tied to the citrus industry and railroad development. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Foothills Park in Palo Alto charges a $6 entry fee for non-residents. Palo Alto residents can enter for free.
Entry is free for Palo Alto residents. Specific discount days or free entry for others are not widely advertised, so check the official park website.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official Foothills Park website for the most current hours of operation.
Tickets are typically purchased at the entrance. Advance booking is generally not required for individual visitors.
The skate park at Foothills Park in Glendale is generally free to use, though specific rules and regulations apply.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Panorama Trail and Bobcat Point trail are popular choices for their scenic views. The Boronda Lake Loop offers a more relaxed walk.
Foothills Park in Glendale features a popular skate park that kids enjoy, though there have been discussions about rules for scooters and bikes. The Palo Alto location offers open spaces for play.
As a nature preserve, Foothills Park in Palo Alto is home to diverse habitats. Keep an eye out for local birds and other small wildlife.
Yes, with its natural landscapes and scenic viewpoints, Foothills Park in Palo Alto is a great spot for photography.
Facilities can vary by location. The Palo Alto park offers trails and natural areas. The Glendale park has a skate park and open spaces. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Foothills Park locations typically do not have on-site restaurants. It's advisable to bring your own snacks and drinks or dine in nearby areas.
Glendale has many dining options. Everest Burgers is a local favorite known for chili cheese fries and burgers.
Picnic areas are often available in parks. Check the specific park's amenities for designated picnic spots.
Glendora, known as the 'Pride of the Foothills,' has a charming village area with cafes and coffee shops.
In the Glendale area, classic American diner fare like burgers and chili cheese fries are popular.
📸 📸 Photography
The Panorama Trail and Bobcat Point in Palo Alto offer sweeping views ideal for landscape photography.
The natural beauty and scenic vistas at Foothills Park in Palo Alto can provide a lovely backdrop for portraits.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, often provides the best lighting for photography at scenic locations like Foothills Park.
Drone usage is typically restricted in parks and nature preserves. Always check the park's specific regulations regarding drones.
Yes, you can take photos at the skate park, but be mindful of the skaters and their privacy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
The park's diverse habitats make it a great place for birdwatching and enjoying the tranquility of the Santa Cruz mountains. 📸 Photographers
The natural landscapes offer a beautiful and serene setting for capturing memorable shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Foothills Park (Palo Alto)
Visitors can explore trails like the Panorama Trail and Bobcat Point, which are lauded for their expansive vistas. The park's natural beauty makes it a prime spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.The Boronda Lake Loop provides a more accessible and leisurely experience, perfect for a relaxed stroll.
While the park is a gem, it's important to note that non-residents are subject to a $6 entry fee, whereas Palo Alto residents enjoy free access. Be prepared for varying trail conditions, and always check for any advisories, especially after periods of rain, as some trails may be temporarily closed. The Foothills Park Skate Park (Glendale)
However, the skate park has also been a point of discussion regarding its rules. There have been instances where park rangers have enforced rules against scooters and bikes, leading to frustration among some younger visitors who feel discriminated against.
Glendora: The 'Pride of the Foothills'
The town offers a blend of suburban tranquility and accessible amenities. From the quaint shops and cafes in Glendora Village to the natural beauty found in areas like Big Dalton Canyon, Glendora provides a pleasant environment for its residents and visitors.
Social
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