The summit features a unique, treeless bald that provides 360-degree views, a result of the wind-swept environment.
The preserve contains the headwaters of Corte Madera Creek, which drains into the San Francisco Bay.
Ancient redwood groves exist in the preserve's sheltered canyons, distinct from the exposed grassy hillsides.
The property was formerly part of the Peninsula Open Space Trust's efforts to prevent residential development on the ridgeline in the 1980s.
Windy Hill is one of the few places in the region where the San Andreas Fault influence is topographically visible in the surrounding terrain.
The grasslands provide essential foraging territory for golden eagles and red-tailed hawks.
Windy Hill Open Space Preserve is a 1,462-acre protected area in the Santa Cruz Mountains known for its prominent grassy ridge and extensive trail network. The preserve rises to an elevation of 1,900 feet, offering panoramic views of the San Francisco Peninsula and the Pacific Ocean. Its terrain encompasses mixed oak woodlands, redwood forests, and expansive grasslands. The preserve serves as a critical habitat for diverse local wildlife, including bobcats, mountain lions, and various raptors. Multiple entry points allow access for hikers, equestrians, and cyclists. The landscape transitions from steep slopes near the summit to gentle meadows at lower elevations. It is managed by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District to preserve local biodiversity and provide recreational access. The preserve is characterized by its high wind exposure, which gives the summit its name.
The bench at the summit of Windy Hill offers the most expansive view of the Peninsula and the Bay.
Bring layers, as temperatures and wind speeds drop significantly at the summit compared to the trailhead.
Check the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District website for real-time trail closure notices due to muddy conditions.
Carry sufficient water, as there are no potable water sources available within the preserve.
Attempting the steepest trails without adequate footwear or training; underestimating the wind chill at the summit.
Open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Stay on marked trails to protect sensitive habitat and prevent erosion. Cyclists must yield to hikers and equestrians.
