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Trip Report: Lexington Reservoir To Priest Rock

Looking for some good vertical gain on a bluebird spring day, I found my way back to a trail I had already done before.  Leaving from Lexington Reservoir County Park and heading into Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve, the hike to Priest Rock would give some legitimate elevation gain in a relatively short, and very accessible trail! There are a whole bunch of ways to reach the viewpoint at Priest Rock.  You can take the Priest Rock Trail, the Limekiln...

Hiking The Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park Loop

On a stunning early spring day, I headed over to the East Bay to check out a park that had long been on my list.  Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park, located just off I-680, covers some beautiful stretches of rolling hills, shady woodland, and quiet meadows.  The hike would be a 10 mile loop on the Ridge Trail and the Thermalito Trail, promising big views and hopefully good hiking! Miles/Elevation: 10 miles 1,942 feet vertical gain About Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park:...

Walking The Devil’s Slide Trail

When driving between Half Moon Bay and Pacifica on Highway 1, you can’t help but notice the large tunnel that you are herded through.  While notable, the tunnel is actually far less dramatic than the former route of highway 1, the Devil’s Slide. Famed for its frequent washouts and closures, this precarious piece of road was completely shut down multiple times in its history, and now has been totally bypassed.  However, now that the old section of highway isn’t used...

Hiking The Santa Teresa County Park Loop

Located essentially within the city of San Jose, Santa Teresa County Park is a prominent feature in the South Bay.  The park’s rolling hills rising above houses and yards make it easily identifiable, and while it is easily noticed, I had never actually hiked there!   With California’s winter rain turning the hills into a bright green, it seemed as good a time as any to finally give it a try!  Rather than trying out a short trail to start, we...