Many areas of Midpen preserves are open to the public daily, free of charge, providing an extensive trail network for low-impact recreation. Our programming connects people to nature through enriched experiences including environmental interpretation, docent-led activities and volunteer opportunities.
Discover Your Preserves
Enjoy Your Preserves
New to Open Space?
Open space preserves are generally kept in a natural condition in order to best protect the environment and wildlife habitat, and are developed with only the amenities needed to provide low-intensity recreation. Improvements may include paved or gravel parking areas, vault restrooms, signed trails for hiking, bicycling, and equestrian and dog use and an occasional picnic table.
What To Do
Midpen has over 250 miles of trail in 27 preserves that are open free to the public 365 days of the year. See what you can do at the preserves — walking, hiking, mountain biking, guided activities and more!
Easy-Access Trails
Several Midpen preserves have easy-access trails that may accommodate wheelchairs, strollers, walkers and anyone desiring a less strenuous open space experience. Most of these easy-access trails are at least 4 feet wide, have a grade generally not exceeding 5%, and a fairly uniform surface. Please note that other Midpen trails may have grades up to 20% and uneven surfaces with rocks, ruts and roots.
Nature in the Preserves
Midpen open space preserves host an incredible diversity of life, making our region one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. These diverse and scenic landscapes, from bay wetlands to redwood forests and coastal grasslands provide habitat for a variety of plants and animals.
Educational Opportunities
Spending time outdoors is a great way to enjoy discoveries of nature. Our educational programming connects people to nature through enriched experiences including environmental interpretation and docent-led activities.
Trail Closures
Trail conditions can vary depending on the time of year, the impact of rain and storms, construction and maintenance and other occurrences. Please be aware that trail closures may change from day to day without notice, based on current and predicted weather conditions. During winter storm season high waters can make creek crossings hazardous, so plan your outing accordingly.
Upcoming Events and Activities
Midpen Regulations and Policies
A variety of policies are in place to guide Midpen and users of open space lands.