Long Ridge Preserve, Saratoga
10 miles, 1440 ft elevation gain, loop.
TLDR: Refreshing hike through woods opening up into dramatic views at the top, entrance is just off Castle Rock State Park parking lot, wildflowers and meadows in spring, moderate workout.
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A beautiful hike in the Caste Rock State Park area near Saratoga! The hike starts just off the beaten path next to the Caste Rock State Park parking area. The first half of the hike goes through woods, alongside Highway 35. It is not too noisy though. You quickly get immersed in the sounds of the green and brown woods. The pathway can be damp since it is mostly shaded. The trail emerges out from the woods on the side of a hill covered with meadows. Soon it opens up into grand views at the top - a long, winding trail through endless meadows and mountains on the horizon. No city views here, only rolling green hills and a haze far away, below which the Bay Area possibly lies.
There is a bench at the top with a view. What a place to rest and grab a snack! Past this point, the trail continues in a 3 mile loop. It dips down to a small green pool. You can find another bench here, if you want a second rest spot :) The trail climbs back up from the pool, and then you take the same way back to the parking lot. Along this segment, there is a small detour to Turtle Rock which is a vantage point to look over the entire park. You may run into a few mountain bikers, but the trail was not crowded when we visited.
A good refreshing workout - best suited for cooler days. Plan to spend long minutes lounging at the top!