Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve

Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve covers more than 3,100 acres of grassy ridgeline along Skyline Boulevard and is known as one of the Bay Area's best spots for spring wildflowers and for raptors. Poppies and lupine bloom first, followed in May and June by gumweed, mule's ears, farewell-to-spring, and brodiaea; during wildflower season the whole preserve is closed to off-trail travel. Red-tailed hawks, Cooper's and sharp-shinned hawks, and golden eagles hunt over the grasslands. The ridge changes with the seasons: golden hills in summer evening light, the clearest views of the bay in fall, and an occasional dusting of snow in winter storms.

The Bay Area Ridge Trail runs the length of the preserve past Borel Hill, the highest named point in San Mateo County, with a 360-degree view; a short, steep spur climbs to another vista point. The Ancient Oaks Trail passes under arching oak limbs, and the trail from the Mindego Gateway now continues to the top of Mindego Hill through grazed land.

The ridge is named for Mr. Paskey, a Russian immigrant who ran a dairy here from about 1920 to 1950 on land leased from San Francisco mayor James "Sunny Jim" Rolph Jr. Dogs are not allowed; bikes and horses are allowed on designated trails. Spring weekend parking fills fast: the main lot (37 spaces) is at Skyline Boulevard and Page Mill/Alpine Road, and the Mindego lot (20 spaces, with a restroom) is on Alpine Road.