Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve

Activity Overview

The Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve is a 1,940 acre preserve that has managed to hold off against the development that has eaten up the majority of San Francisco Bay. As such it provides a beautiful tract of land to nature lovers and just about anyone who wants to get away from the city. It is popular with walkers and bird-watchers.

Things to Do

• There is a lot to do at the Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve. There is an extensive system of trails which you can take advantage of if you have an interest in hiking, jogging or cycling.
• If you prefer to get out on the water they you can as boardsailing, kayaking, canoeing, wind surfing and boating in non-motorized boats are all allowed.
• Bird watchers are in for a treat seeing as the Preserve is considered one of the finest bird watching areas on the entire West Coast. Fishing is allowed too so bring your rod!

Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve Insider Tips

• You can download a map and brochure of the Bayland Preserve from the City of Palo Alto and from Open Space. You will find detailed info on trails and activities in both of these documents.
• The Preserve's opening hours change throughout the year. You can check out when the Preserve closes with this useful layout of its hours in the twelve months of the year.
• Remember that smoking is prohibited at Baylands Nature Preserve just as it is at all other Open Space nature preserves too.