Russian Ridge Preserve

Introduction:

Update: Last time I visit this location was at Jan 22, 2022

Where? : Russian Ridge park located at skyline ridge along hwy 35 near the junction with Alpine Rd..

Google Map Link

What? : Large open space ridge without tree coverage so you can get nice sunset views to the west. There are only few trails covering the hills. A popular mountain biking park.

One of the best skyline ridge location for sunset watching.

When? : the best time to visit this park is at late afternoon where you can enjoy the sunset view.

The Visit:

From the main parking lot, you are going north west on Ridge trail. Once reaching all the way to Mt. Melville you need to go back. there is a nice viewing point at Borel Hill top.

Another entrance option is at Silicon Valley Vista Point (hwy 35).

There is another smaller parking lot and hikes option at Audrey C. Rust Commemorative Site; Located on Alpine road that is going down west.

From this lower section of the park you can go all the way to Mindego hill or the viewing point on the nice lake (in and out hike). Another option is to climb the main park ridge section via Charqin Trail and go back down on Ancient Oaks trail.

My thoughts: open landscape hills, good for sunset viewing and mountain bike trips.

www:

https://www.openspace.org/preserves/russian-ridge

 

Map:

https://www.openspace.org/sites/default/files/map_RR.pdf

Pictures:

Pictures from Jan 22, 2022 visit: