Doubleup Russian Ridge

Hike to two scenic summits in Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve

What’s better than one hilltop summit? Two, of course! Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve packs two scenic hills in one 9-mile (round-trip) challenging hike. Lace up your hiking boots and scale Borel and Mindego Hills for spectacular views stretching all the way from the Diablo Range to the Pacific Ocean.

From the trailhead at the Highway 35/Alpine Road intersection, the Ridge Trail is a gentle ascent to the ridgeline, where hikers can catch stunning views of the San Francisco Bay and Mount Diablo. Note: There can be strong winds on this stretch of trail, which only add to the sense of adventure. (Hold on to your hats!) After 0.7 mile, you can proudly tap the Borel Hill signpost, marking your 2,572-foot summit.

From there, the Bo Gimbal Trail leads you south to the Ancient Oaks and Charquin Trails, a winding, heavily wooded route. Catch your breath as you enjoy 700 feet of relaxing descent through the forest, and keep an eye out for the rust-colored newts who share the trail.

As you emerge from the trees, bear right onto Mindego Hill Trail, a gently sloping, grassy path along acres of scenic cow pasture. After a mile, pass through the cattle gate to begin the real challenge: summiting Mindego Hill. This 400-foot ascent is a steep test of endurance, but well worth the effort when you finally stand atop its summit. At an elevation of 2,143 feet, views of the surrounding mountains against the backdrop of the sea will take your breath away.

The quickest route back to the trailhead is from Mindego Hill Trail to Ancient Oaks, and then a right turn onto the Ridge Trail. These last few miles have some steep uphill sections, but late-day hikers are in for a treat as the golden hour views from this stretch can be fantastic on clear days. Just don’t linger too long because the park closes a half hour after sunset.

The Russian Ridge parking lot is located on the northwest corner of the Skyline Blvd. (Hwy. 35) and Page Mill / Alpine Rd. intersection (across Skyline Blvd. on the right). No dogs.

Story by Poe Casavant. Photos by Kristin Perry

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Afternoon on the Island

    What is it about tiny islands in the middle of lakes? There’s something that just draws you in. It’s even more fun when getting there is half the adventure because you have to reach it by canoe, kayak, paddleboat, or a ranger-guided boat tour!

    View
  2. Golden Gate's Blue Heron

    Golden Gate Park’s Blue Heron Lake is home to birds of many feathers, turtles lounging on rocks, visitors from afar, and locals who love this urban oasis in San Francisco. Try the "Boats and Breakfast" rowboat or pedal boat deal.

    View
  3. Rio Del Mar-velous

    Rio Del Mar State Beach in Aptos might be one of the best places for a treasure hunt. Its location between two other beaches makes for a good stroll featuring a spectacle of wildlife as you search the sand for sea glass and seashells.

    View
  4. Aloha from California

    Say Aloha without leaving California with a 7-mile out-and-back hiking adventure to Lake Aloha in El Dorado National Forest. You can also camp here, a premier place for stargazing.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Gentle Giants

    Some people visit national parks to marvel at the iconic sights, while others come seeking solitude in nature. With visitation on the rise, it can be hard to find both. But in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, this pair of trails offers both....

    View
  2. Walking the Los Angeles River Trail Through Frogtown

    Frogtown Strutter’s Stroll

    Don’t go dismissing the Los Angeles River as merely a 51-mile concrete channel. It’s a genuine urban artery that links real neighborhoods, and its riverside bike/ped paths endear i

    View
  3. Griffith's Golden

    With over 4,200 acres and hundreds of trails, Griffith Park is the gold standard. Opt for the lesser-hiked northwestern end of the park and visit the 2.25-mile Skyline and Oak Canyon loop from Travel Town.

    View
  4. Sponsored

    Fall for It All in Reno Tahoe

    The best kind of getaway? Less time on logistics, more time on memory-making. Jackpot! You’ve got Reno Tahoe.

    View