Pearson-Arastradero Preserve - Palo Alto, CA
Pearson-Arastradero Preserve: A Dog-Friendly Hiking Gem in Palo Alto, California
If you’re searching for a scenic and pet-friendly destination, Pearson-Arastradero Preserve is an excellent option for dog owners near Palo Alto, California. The preserve features a variety of well-paved and gentle hiking trails stretching around six miles, allowing you and your furry friend to explore green hills, serene lakes, and meadows filled with wildflowers and birdlife. With open grasslands, a partly shaded environment, and tranquil views, it’s a great spot for those seeking a dog-friendly hiking adventure or a peaceful walk in nature.
While there may not be a dedicated fenced dog park area, dogs are welcome on-leash throughout the preserve. You’ll find water fountains, benches for resting, picnic tables, restrooms at the trailhead, and convenient parking (though it can get crowded on busy weekends). The preserve’s open spaces and pet-friendly trails make it a top choice for dog lovers and families looking for outdoor experiences in the Palo Alto area.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Dogs must be kept on-leash while visiting the preserve.
- What are the park’s leash requirements? Leashes are required for all dogs to ensure safety and respect for wildlife.
- Are there water fountains or bowls for dogs? Yes, there are drinking fountains available at the preserve.
- Is there shade or shelter available? There is partial shade from trees, particularly along the trails, and some benches and picnic tables in shaded areas.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, restrooms are available at the trailhead near the parking lot.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, benches are placed along the trails for rest and relaxation.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? While not a playground, the preserve offers open grassy areas that are fun for families and kids.
- Is the park open year-round? Yes, Pearson-Arastradero Preserve is open to visitors year-round.
- Where is the best place to park? Parking is available at the trailhead lot, but it can fill up on weekends. Additional street parking can be found nearby.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the preserve is best known for its extensive network of hiking and walking trails.
- Are picnics allowed? Yes, there are picnic tables, and visitors often enjoy picnics in the grassy areas.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Some trails may be muddy after rainfall, though the well-paved sections typically dry quickly.
- How busy does the park get on weekends? The preserve can be busy on weekends, especially on nice days, so consider visiting in the afternoon or on weekdays for a quieter experience.
Reviews
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
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.
Great place for a quiet walk. lots of ground squirrels and birds.
the parking lot is a bit small. less crowded after 2p.
we walked on the west side of the road, up to Arastradero Lake. v quiet, great views. a coyote stood and watched us for a while and trotted off.
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.
This was a beautiful place to walk in nature when we had the drought. But now that we’ve had rain it’s just stunning. You see golden hills with green oak trees, pink tiny wildflowers, red tail hawks, and the lake is so serene that it mesmerizes you if you can stop in the middle of Silicon Valley. There are dragonflies of many species, butterflies, mama birds taking care of young in the water and more. Do be familiar with what poison oak looks like so you can avoid it. Then take a breath and enjoy!