Hike Description:

Note the time change to 11:00 a.m. This will be a joint hike with the Bay Area Arts and Outdoors Meetup Group.

The hike will begin at the parking lot off Portola Road, about 1 mile west of Alpine Road. We'll meet at the end of the parking lot near the trailhead at 11:00 a.m., and begin walking at about 11:10. We'll walk about 3 miles up Spring Ridge Trail to Anniversary Trail, pause to take in the panoramic views, and then return on Spring Ridge Trail.

DISTANCE: about 6 miles
ELEVATION GAIN: 1,200 feet
DIFFICULTY: Moderate
PACE: Moderate
DURATION: 3 to 3-1/2 hours, including pauses

Notes:

* The weather forecast currently looks good for next weekend, but because of this week's rain, sections of the trail will be muddy. Hiking shoes with some tread are advised.
* Bring layers of warm clothes.
* Although considered moderate in difficulty, this trail does require a steady climb of about 1,200 feet.
* Bring water and some food. If the weather is warm enough, we'll pause at the top for a light picnic before returning.

Directions:
If you're arriving via I-280 and Sand Hill Road: Drive west on Sand Hill Road (which eventually becomes Portola Road) for 4.5 miles. Look for a small brown sign with an arrow for "Windy Hill", and turn right into the parking lot. Keep in mind that the main sign for Windy Hill is somewhat hidden from view.

If you're arriving via I-280 and Alpine Road: Drive south on Alpine Road for 2.9 miles. At the stop sign, turn right onto Portola Road. Proceed about .9 of a mile, looking for a small brown sign on the right side of the road with an arrow for Windy Hill, and then turn left into the parking lot. Keep in mind that the main sign for Windy Hill is somewhat hidden from view.

From the website:
"Visitors can meander through a variety of habitats along the preserve’s 12 miles of trails. Hikers and equestrians use the Hamms Gulch, Eagle, Razorback Ridge, and Lost Trails to make an 8-mile loop through forested ridges to the valley floor and back again. The Anniversary Trail provides a short hike atop Windy Hill, with spectacular views of the bay and surrounding valley. Popular among bicyclists is the Spring Ridge Trail, which descends from Skyline Boulevard and continues along a grassy ridge to Portola Valley."

Here is more information about Windy Hill:
http://www.hikingsanfrancisco.com/san_francisco_hikes/windy_hill_regional_open_space.php

Here is the url to the meetup:
http://www.meetup.com/Bay-Area-Arts-and-Outdoors-Meetup-Group/calendar/15426722/?from=list&offset=0

Recommended Clothing:

Bring layered clothing in case it gets chilly.

Recommended Food:

Probably a good idea to being lunch or at least a snack.

Cancellation Condition:

Dogs Allowed:

No