Pulgas Ridge Preserve by Erica Freeman.

Pulgas Ridge Preserve

Pulgas Ridge Preserve by Erica Freeman

Overview

Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve is a 366-acre site near the City of San Carlos with trails for hiking and walking one's dog, including an off-leash area. The preserve's six miles of trails offers access to cool canyons and a ridge top with views toward the bay and surrounding hillsides.

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Hiking: All Trails
Hiking: All Trails
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Bicycling: Not Permitted
Bicycling: Not Permitted
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Equestrian: Not Permitted
Equestrian: Not Permitted
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Dogs on Leash: All Trails
Dogs on Leash: All Trails
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Easy Access: Designated Trails
Easy Access: Designated Trails
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Some parking
Parking: Designated Areas
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Camping: No Camping
Camping: No Camping
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Restrooms: Available
Restrooms: Available

Preserve Highlights & Features

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a dog running with a stick in it's mouth

Off-leash dog area

Visitors can let their dogs off-leash in the 17.5-acre area located in the center of the preserve, accessible from the Cordilleras Trail, Polly Geraci/Hassler Trails and the Blue Oak Trail. While in this area, visitors must have a leash in their possession and their dog must be under voice control.

Note: Area is fenced and signed at entrances, but there is no fencing around the off-leash area. Dogs must be on a leash when outside of the off-leash area.

Stories from the Preserves

Nature

Here are some of the plants and animals that other visitors have observed at this preserve and recorded in iNaturalist. Protected species may be excluded and some species may not yet have been observed. Help improve iNaturalist by adding your observations to the Midpen Biodiversity Index project

Join our e-mail list to stay up-to-date on this preserve and other Midpen news! 

 

Know Before You Go

Preserve regulations help provide a safe, enjoyable visit while protecting sensitive areas and wildlife. 

Share the Trail 

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YIELD. Bicycles yield to hikers and equestrians. HIkers yield to equestrians.
  • Use designated trails to avoid damage to natural resources and prevent injury. 

  • Avoid blocking the trail. Step aside to allow others to pass .  

  • Whether you’re walking or biking, always yield to equestrians. 

  • Leave no trace. Pack out what you pack in. Most preserves do not have trash cans. Littering is prohibited. 

  • Abuses of trail etiquette should be brought to the attention of a ranger or call the Midpen main office at 650-691-1200

History

Formerly the site of the Hassler Health Home, a tuberculosis sanitarium owned by the City of San Francisco, the area was purchased by Midpen in 1983. Neighbors of the preserve contributed to the land's protection when they approved a special assessment to help fund the purchase. The sanitarium was demolished in 1985 to return the land to open space. Observant visitors may see remnants of the buildings, including rock retaining walls and steps.