Russian Ridge is a spectacular place to enjoy the changes in the seasons. In the spring, this 1,580-acre preserve explodes with color as the native wildflowers put on a showy display. This preserve is often named as one of the five best places in the Bay Area to see wildflowers. Early in the spring, the poppies and lupine dominate. By May and June, gumweed, mules ears, farewell-to-spring, and brodiaea bloom. The hills turn to gold in the summer, when the long evening light strikes them. Autumn, when the fog recedes, is the ideal time to enjoy the ridge views of San Francisco Bay and the Santa Cruz Mountains through the crisp, clean air. Winter storms occasionally dust the top of the hills with snow. The preserve is a patchwork of different plant communities due to its ridge location, steep topography, and numerous springs that create the headwaters of Mindego and Alpine Creeks. Diverse plant communities, miles of forest edge, and abundant springs make Russian Ridge an outstanding habitat for wildlife. Large numbers of raptors soar over the lush grasslands, and coyotes patrol the ridges. The steep forested canyons create a secure refuge for a tremendous variety of animals, including the elusive mountain lion. These beautiful animals have large territories that extend far beyond the preserve boundaries, up to 100 miles! The preserve is also one of the best places in the Bay Area to see raptors. Red-tailed hawks, turkey vultures, Cooper's hawks, sharp-shinned hawks and golden eagles have all been seen on the preserve. Eight miles of trails are available for you at Russian Ridge. The Bay Area Ridge Trail continues north from Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve along the ridge to Rapley Ranch Road, providing breathtaking views of both the Pacific Ocean and the San Francisco Bay. The trail passes by Borel Hill, the highest named point in San Mateo County, which offers a 360-degree view. Directions: The Russian Ridge parking area is located at the intersection of Skyline Boulevard (Route 35) and Alpine Road. Additional parking is located at the Caltrans Vista Point on Skyline Boulevard. You can reach Coal Creek Open Space Preserve from the vista point or further north along Skyline Boulevard at Crazy Petes Road. Coal Creek is also accessible to hikers, bicyclists, and equestrians from Alpine Road.