Pearson-Arastradero Preserve
Dog-friendly open space with scenic trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, especially beautiful in spring.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers and green hills
Pearson-Arastradero Preserve
Best Time
Wildflowers and green hills
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dog-friendly open space with scenic trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, especially beautiful in spring.
"Stunning after rain with green hills, wildflowers, and abundant birdlife."
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Main lot fills fast on weekends. Consider street parking nearby or adding a mile walk from Page Mill Rd.
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Trails are well-maintained but can be dusty. Wear sturdy shoes for a pleasant hiking experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wildflower Blooms
Throughout the preserve
Vibrant wildflowers paint the hillsides in spring, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle.
Birdwatching Opportunities
Near the lake and creek
Spot diverse bird species, including red-tailed hawks and dragonflies, in this serene natural habitat.
Scenic Loop Trails
Various marked trails
Enjoy well-maintained trails offering gentle inclines and beautiful views of rolling hills and oak trees.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Best Views
Trail Etiquette and What to Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Main lot fills fast on weekends. Consider street parking nearby or adding a mile walk from Page Mill Rd.
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Trails are well-maintained but can be dusty. Wear sturdy shoes for a pleasant hiking experience.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Limited shade means staying hydrated is crucial, especially on warmer days.
🐶 Leash Your Furry Friends
This is a dog-friendly preserve, but keep your pets on a leash to respect wildlife and other visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Main lot fills fast on weekends. Consider street parking nearby or adding a mile walk from Page Mill Rd.
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Trails are well-maintained but can be dusty. Wear sturdy shoes for a pleasant hiking experience.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Limited shade means staying hydrated is crucial, especially on warmer days.
🐶 Leash Your Furry Friends
This is a dog-friendly preserve, but keep your pets on a leash to respect wildlife and other visitors.
🌿 Watch for Poison Oak
Be aware of your surroundings and know how to identify poison oak to avoid irritation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Pearson-Arastradero Preserve for its beautiful scenery, especially after rain when the hills turn green and wildflowers bloom. The well-maintained trails are accessible for hiking and offer opportunities for birdwatching. Some find parking challenging on busy weekends and note the dusty conditions on trails.
"Great hiking trail. There is a good mix of terrain but well paved so not very difficult. Very scenic trail with lots of bird to spot"
Raghu Mallampati
"Had a great hike here in late April. Grass was green, wildflowers and birds were all over the place. A full loop of the preserve (my preferred route) is about 6 miles and fairly gentle by Bay Area standards. This isn't pristine nature by any means; it's sandwiched between a horse pasture and a golf course with mansions along the rest of the perimeter, and there are power lines along the creek trail for some reason. But none of that spoils the scenery and the easy accessibility is one of this place's big virtues. Expect to have to hover for parking on nice weekends, or park at Page Mill and Arastradero and add an extra mile each way."
Luke Paulsen
"Really nice for hiking all year round but especially beautiful after some rain when the hills turn green. Couple of benches along the trail have really nice views. Parking can be hard to find on weekend mornings but there are a few street parking spots across the road. There are restrooms at the trail head, next to the parking lot."
Chinmay S
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The preserve is located at 1530 Arastradero Rd, Palo Alto, California. It's accessible by car, with parking available at the main lot. Some visitors suggest parking at Page Mill and Arastradero roads and walking to add extra mileage.
While not directly served by a major transit hub within the preserve itself, Caltrain stations in Palo Alto are a starting point. From there, you might need to arrange a ride-share or a longer walk to reach the preserve.
From Highway 101, take the Oregon Expressway exit towards Palo Alto. Continue on Oregon Expressway, which becomes Arastradero Road. The preserve entrance will be on your right.
Yes, there is a free parking lot at the trailhead. However, it can fill up quickly on weekends and nice days, so arriving early is recommended.
Yes, cycling is a popular way to access the preserve, and there are dedicated trails for biking. Some users prefer gravel bikes for the terrain.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Pearson-Arastradero Preserve is free to visit. There are no admission fees required to enjoy the trails and natural beauty.
The preserve is open daily from 8:00 AM until sunset. It's best to check local listings for exact sunset times to plan your visit accordingly.
No advance booking is necessary as the preserve is free and open to the public during its operating hours.
The main restriction is adhering to the operating hours (8:00 AM to sunset) and respecting the natural environment. Dogs are allowed but must be leashed.
The preserve is generally open on holidays, following its regular hours of 8:00 AM to sunset. It's always a good idea to confirm closer to the date if you have specific concerns.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The preserve features over 10 miles of unpaved trails suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Popular routes include the Redtail Loop and Meadowlark Trail.
Absolutely! It's highly recommended for hiking, with a mix of terrain and scenic views. The full loop is about 6 miles and considered gentle by Bay Area standards.
Yes, Pearson-Arastradero Preserve is dog-friendly! Dogs are welcome on the trails, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. 
The Arastradero Creek Loop is generally considered stroller friendly, though there are a few inclines that might require a bit of effort.
Visitors often spot various bird species, including red-tailed hawks and turkey vultures. You might also see dragonflies, butterflies, and other small wildlife.
📸 📸 Photography
The rolling hills, especially when green and dotted with wildflowers in spring, offer stunning photographic opportunities. The lake area and views from benches along the trails are also picturesque.
Yes, the preserve provides beautiful landscapes, particularly during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The changing seasons offer different photographic subjects.
You can certainly try! Keep an eye out for birds and other small creatures. Remember to maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing the wildlife.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, creating softer shadows and warmer tones. This also coincides with fewer crowds.
Several benches along the trails offer excellent vantage points for capturing the scenery. The area around the lake is also a popular spot for photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
There are plenty of open spaces for kids to explore and enjoy nature. Remember to pack water and snacks, and be aware that there isn't much shade, so plan accordingly for sunny days. This preserve is also dog-friendly, so your furry family members can join the fun too, as long as they are on a leash.
Visiting in spring offers the added bonus of seeing wildflowers, which can be a delightful sight for children. 🐶 Dog Owners
+1 This means you and your dog can enjoy the over 10 miles of trails together. Just be sure to bring plenty of water for both of you, especially on warmer days, and be mindful of the dusty trails. 🚴 Cyclists
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails: Hiking, Biking, and More
Popular routes include the Redtail Loop and the Meadowlark Trail, each offering distinct scenic views. The Arastradero Creek Loop is particularly noted as being beginner-friendly and even stroller-adaptable, making it a great option for families.
While the trails are generally well-maintained, be prepared for dusty conditions, especially in drier months, and always be mindful of potential hazards like poison oak. Remember to check the weather, as there is limited shade throughout the preserve. Bringing ample water is essential, especially during warmer periods. The diverse trail network ensures there's something for everyone, whether you're looking for a vigorous workout or a leisurely stroll amidst nature.
The Best Times to Visit for Nature Lovers
Beyond spring, the preserve offers beauty year-round. After any significant rainfall, the landscape becomes particularly breathtaking, with the lake appearing serene and the vegetation lush.
While the preserve is accessible year-round, planning your visit around the seasons can significantly enhance your experience. Whether you're drawn by the spring blooms, the post-rain greenery, or the quiet solitude of a weekday, Pearson-Arastradero Preserve offers a refreshing escape into nature.
Family-Friendly Adventures at Arastradero
This makes it an accessible option for families with young children or those who prefer a less strenuous walk. With over 10 miles of trails, there are plenty of opportunities for kids to explore and burn off energy. The open spaces and natural environment provide a great setting for children to connect with nature.
The preserve's dog-friendly nature also means families can bring their canine companions along for the adventure, provided they are leashed. Visiting during the spring can add an extra layer of wonder for kids, with the chance to see colorful wildflowers and a variety of birds.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit