a boy skipping along a trail

What to Do

Midpen preserves are an ideal setting for a wide range of activities.

Visitors will find nearly 250 miles of trails for walking, hiking, biking, nature study, dog walking, horseback riding and more. Come explore your open space!
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two people hiking on a trail
Monte Bello Preserve (Sharla Oliveri)

Walking and Hiking

All trails at Midpen are open for walking, hiking and running. From an easy stroll around an inviting pond to a challenging climb up one of our many hillsides, there’s a path for you. Many of our nearly 250 miles of designated trails are unpaved “wildland” trails in steep, rugged terrain.

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Hikers enjoying sunset sky at Monte Bello Preserve
Sunset hikers at Monte Bello Preserve (Karl Gohl)

Free guided activities led by volunteer docent naturalists offer a great way to explore a new preserve, learn about the natural environment or join others for outdoor recreation. Whether it's a short stroll by a scenic pond or a vigorous hike to the top of a summit, there's something for everyone!

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person putting a plant in the ground

From single hands-on restoration projects to enhancing trail safety and visitor experience along the trails to long-term commitments in interpretative and education program delivery, there’s a role for everyone in caring for our local landscapes.

Self-guided Walks

We've compiled a variety of self-guided walks across the Midpen preserves. Learn the stories of Mount Umunhum in Sierra Azul Preserve, learn about the varied habitats around Alpine Pond in Skyline Ridge Preserve, see where the San Andreas Fault splits Los Trancos Preserve and more! Many tours can be downloaded to free smartphone apps.