For residents of the San Francisco Peninsula who like to run and hike the choices are abundant. A short drive -- for some lucky few, a short walk -- allow us to reach preserves where it is easy to spend a few hours or a full day exploring the trails and the woods. There are preserves that offer shady trails and picnic spots for hot summer days and there are trails with breathtaking views of the ocean and the coastal mountain range.
It is the time for wild flowers. This year, low rainfall has prevented great displays. They will be gone soon but there are still some to be found.
Coast Sun Cups at Edgewood Park
©MusafirMule Ears at Arasradero Preserve
©Musafir
The Picnic Table at Arastradero Preserve. Sort of hidden in a secluded area. JHL and I have enjoyed many hours at the table and seen very few people go past. ©Musafir.jpg)
©MusafirWe stopped at Stanford Campus on our way to Arastradero Preserve.
The Quad
©MusafirA Screech Owl nesting at Rancho San Antonio
©MusafirQuail in the bush, Rancho San Antonio
©MusafirWild Turkey at Rancho San Antonio
©MusafirTrail to the Lower Parking Lot
©MusafirRest stop, Wild Cat Canyon Trail
©MusafirEntrance to Russian Ridge
©MusafirRed Paintbrush
©MusafirTidy Tips
©MusafirCalifornia Poppies and Miniature Lupine
©MusafirChecker Mallows
©MusafirCalifornia Poppies and American Vetch
©MusafirLooking east, Stanford Campus and beyond
©MusafirLooking west at Rapley Ranch
©MusafirThe pond at Rapley Ranch
©Musafir"I celebrate myself
And what I assume you shall assume,
For every atom belonging to me as good belongs to you."
-- Walt Whitman, Leaves of Grass