Arastradero Preserve, Protected area in Palo Alto, California, US
Arastradero Preserve is a protected area near San Francisco Bay covering about 622 acres with rolling hills, grasslands, oak woodlands, and creek-fed wetlands. The terrain supports a wide range of native plants and animals that thrive in these varied environments.
The area was once used for agriculture until Palo Alto acquired it to protect the Arastradero Creek watershed. This conversion preserved the natural landscape and created a sanctuary for wildlife.
Local environmental organizations use the preserve for educational programs and guided walks where visitors learn about native plants and wildlife. Volunteers regularly help with restoration work to maintain the landscape and its natural balance.
The preserve offers more than 10 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding across different habitats. After heavy rain, some paths may close temporarily, so checking conditions before visiting is a good idea.
A pair of bald eagles has built their nest in a eucalyptus tree near Felt Lake, which marks a significant recovery for the preserve's ecosystem. This rare presence shows how the natural environment has improved over time.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
Main Quad
4.5 km
Center for Advanced Study in the Behavioral Sciences
3.8 km
Hanna–Honeycomb House
3.4 km
Lou Henry and Herbert Hoover House
3.5 km
Stanford Graduate School of Education
4.4 km
Stanford Clock Tower
4.4 km
Windy Hill Open Space Preserve
5.1 kmLane Medical Library
4.4 km
Braun Music Center
4.2 km
Stanford Fire Truck House
4.3 km
Green Earth Sciences Research Building
4.4 km
Our Lady of the Wayside Church
5.2 km
J. Henry Meyer Memorial Library
4.4 kmOld Union Fountain
4.3 km
Palo Alto Stock Farm Horse Barn
4.3 km
Casa De Tableta
1.8 km
Toyon Hall
4.5 km
White Memorial Fountain
4.3 km
Roble Hall
4.1 km
Foothill Observatory
4.6 km
Stanford Dish
2.4 km
MacFarland House
3.4 km
Stanford Sweet Hall
4.3 km
Portola Valley School
4.8 km
Wilcox Solar Observatory
2.6 km
Denning House
4.1 km
Shumway Fountain
4.4 km
Portola Valley Library
4.9 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes