Meadow Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Wildlife

The Meadow Trail begins close to the gate at Alpine Road and Willowbrook Drive in Portola Valley. Follow the road and cross Corte Madera Creek via a bridge that has a specific lane for pedestrians. Shortly after crossing the bridge, the Meadow Trail breaks off to the left and becomes a singletrack dirt trail that follows the creek for a little bit before breaking away to the right. The sound of the creek begins to fade as the trail begins to climb back toward the road. The trail cuts to the left when the road comes back into view. After going a short distance, the Meadow Trail cuts off to the right and climbs through a field that is surrounded by large trees. Deer and rabbits can be seen feeding in these fields in the morning and evening. After going through the field, the trail crosses the road and begins to narrow.

The trail continues to climb as a small side trail goes off to the right and meets up with the Spring Ridge Trail. It switches back and climbs a hill where views of the surrounding hills and homes come into view. The trail enters the woods with large trees bordering the trail and private property off to the lefthand side of the trail. Obstructed views off to the east can be seen through the trees, but there aren't a lot of great views through this section. The trail finally climbs several switchbacks before arriving at the junction with the Spring Ridge Trail. From here, you can return to your car via the same path that you climbed, or turn right and follow the Spring Ridge Trail back down the hill and take one of several trails that go off to the right and lead back to your car.

Deer, rabbits, and various species of birds can be seen in the woods.

Various wildflowers can be seen in the open meadows and fields that line the trail in the springtime.