The best walks and hikes around Atherton
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4,022
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208
hikes
Hiking around Atherton explores a landscape of rolling hills, dense woodlands, and open space preserves. The region is characterized by its network of trails that wind through county parks and wildlife refuges, offering a mix of shaded forest paths and more exposed routes. The terrain varies from gentle, flat trails around baylands to steeper climbs within the wooded hillsides.
Best hiking trails around Atherton
- The most popular hiking route is Stanford Campus Walk, a 3.4 miles (5.5 km) trail…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
5.0
(1)
4
hikers
5.52km
01:24
10m
10m
The Stanford Campus Walk offers a delightful and easy stroll through the heart of Stanford University, showcasing its stunning architecture and meticulously maintained grounds. You'll wander past iconic sandstone buildings…
2
hikers
1.67km
00:27
30m
30m
The Arroyo Ojo De Agua Loop offers a delightful, easy stroll through the western foothills, providing serene views of the landscape and the majestic Organ Mountains in the distance. The…
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5
hikers
5.67km
01:29
40m
40m
Explore the easy 3.5-mile Bedwell Bayfront Park Loop, offering bay views, birdwatching, and unique art along the San Francisco Bay Trail.
25
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
15
hikers
3.53km
00:54
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A sculpture made by Augustin Rodnin
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The Main Quad and Memorial Court are part of Stanford University's academic preserve. Memorial Court features The Burghers of Calais by Auguste Rodin, from the largest Rodin sculpture collection outside Paris.
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This 160-acre park is surrounded on three sides by the San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge, making it an excellent place to spot wildlife, especially of the winged variety.
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The trails in the park are fantastic, winding pathways that offer you the choice of how you want to explore the area. These trails lead to elevated vantage points that boast spectacular views of the former salt ponds of the south bay, especially during sunset. They are suitable for both hiking and biking and are a great addition to your journey along the San Francisco Bay Trail or a place to spend the day enjoying the views.
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This stunning park spans 160 acres and is surrounded on three sides by the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. It features an extensive trail system (some paved, mostly unpaved) that is open to both hikers and cyclists, providing ample opportunity to explore the park's hills and viewpoints. There is plenty of parking, restrooms, a water bottle filling station, and lovely benches throughout the grounds, making it an ideal setting for spending a day outdoors.
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The Main Quad is the oldest part of Stanford University. The cornerstone of the Quad was laid in May of 1887 and completed in 1905. This 17-acre hallmark of the university is a great place to run through and take in the history.
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This is a public access Arboretum on the grounds of Stanford University and predates the university itself. Today the collection of native and non-native trees has more than 350 species from all over the world.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the Atherton area?
Yes, the region offers several gentle trails perfect for families or a relaxed walk. A great option is the Bedwell Bayfront Park loop, which is a mostly flat walk with open views. Another excellent choice is the trail to Schilling Lake, a short and accessible path in the Thornewood Open Space Preserve.
What are some good places for hiking around Atherton?
The area is rich with excellent hiking spots. Wunderlich County Park is a local favorite, known for its extensive network of trails through redwood and oak forests. For coastal scenery and birdwatching, the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a top destination. Thornewood Open Space Preserve offers quieter, shaded trails, while Bedwell Bayfront Park provides open, sunny paths with views of the bay.
Are there any challenging hikes for more experienced hikers?
Definitely. For those seeking a strenuous workout with significant elevation gain, the Alambique & Skyline Trail Loop in Wunderlich County Park is a demanding route that rewards hikers with a deep immersion in the region's woodlands. It's a long trail that requires good fitness.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the trails?
The terrain around Atherton is quite varied. You'll find everything from flat, paved, or gravel paths in the baylands areas like the Don Edwards Wildlife Refuge to steep, dirt single-track trails in the wooded hills of Wunderlich County Park. Many trails are well-shaded under a canopy of redwood and oak trees, while others are more exposed.
How many hiking trails are available around Atherton?
There are over 160 hiking routes to explore in and around Atherton. The network includes a wide variety of trails, from short, easy walks to challenging all-day hikes, ensuring there's something for every skill level.
What do other hikers think of the trails in this area?
The trails around Atherton are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful redwood forests in parks like Wunderlich, and the peaceful atmosphere of the open space preserves.
Are there any circular or loop trails available?
Yes, many of the most popular hikes are loop trails, allowing you to enjoy a varied journey without retracing your steps. A great moderate option is the Bear Gulch & Alambique Trail loop, which takes you on a scenic circuit through Wunderlich County Park.
Where can I find trails suitable for wildlife viewing?
For wildlife and birdwatching, your best bet is the Inner Bair Island via San Francisco Bay Trail. This trail runs through a national wildlife refuge, offering excellent opportunities to see shorebirds and other marshland creatures in their natural habitat.
Are there any good shaded hikes for hot days?
Many trails in the area are perfect for warm weather thanks to ample tree cover. The routes within Wunderlich County Park and Thornewood Open Space Preserve are particularly well-shaded by redwood, madrone, and oak trees, providing a cool escape from the sun.
What are the parking situations at the main trailheads?
Most of the county parks and open space preserves, such as Wunderlich County Park and Bedwell Bayfront Park, have dedicated parking lots near the main trailheads. However, these spots can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. It's always a good idea to arrive early to secure a space.
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