Windy Hill - Lost Trail (4.2 mi, 400 ft) - San Mateo County

HIKE STATS:
Start Time: 10 am
Distance: 4.2 mile out-and-back
Estimated Hike Time: 2 hrs
Elevation change: 400 ft
Difficulty: EASY
Event Type: Open
Event Organizer: Maura

Here's an old favorite EASY hike through some lovely fir and oaks in the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District. The pace for this hike is RELAXED, so come with an eye toward enjoying the weather and some awesome company. This is an EXCELLENT choice for our beloved newbies ~ but be sure to pack warmly for winter weather!

There is a facility (yeah!) near the parking lot, which is happiness; however parking is very limited so CARPOOLING is strongly encouraged. The infamous Woodside Bakery (3052 Woodside Road) is a great location for folks who want to meet near 280 and drive up together.

Remember that the address in the info/map link above is approximate. If you use a mapping program, please be sure to combine it with the written directions and road signs. This is where your fellow car-poolers come in really handy!!

* As always, be sure to bring WATER, snacks and an extra layer (like a windbreaker)
* The weather at Windy Hill is often very changeable. You may want to pack fleece and rain gear ... just in case.
* Big points for printing maps for you and some of your new friends. The hike route HAS been posted in the Files section.
* No pets, please

This hike is open to all members without restriction. This does not mean it is an easy hike: it means that no special permissions are required from the event organizer (Maura) in order to join. This is an easy hike. It is perfect for newbies and anyone who just wants a lovely SLOW Sunday morning walkabout with friends.

Please be aware that we expect you to take responsibility for your safety while we are out on the trails. This means arriving prepared, remaining aware and participating with the other really wonderful folks who are part of the group on hike day. We understand that your "Yes" RSVP to this event means you accept this.

If the hike is full, please RSVP "No" and add a comment asking to be added to the wait list. Our folks are really, really good about keeping their RSVP status current and the wait list works REALLY well. Please remember that it is NOT OKAY to come to this hike unless you have a "Yes" RSVP for yourself and any guests you'd like to bring.

Here is a link to more information from the more information awesome Bay Area Hiker site about the hike. We are really looking forward to seeing YOU there.

CARPOOLS:
Fewer cars at the trailhead is always happiness. Meetup does not organize carpools; however we are a friendly group with lots of folks who are interested in sharing rides. If you'd like to offer a ride, please leave a comment in your RSVP letting folks know where you're coming from and how many spaces there are. If you'd like to ride as a passenger, it is YOUR JOB to check the website RSVP list and contact any of the nice people offering a ride to see if they still have a space for you. If you're a passenger and your plans change, please be sure to let the driver know.

DIRECTIONS:
From Interstate 280 in San Mateo County, exit CA 84 (exit 25). Drive west about 6.5 miles to the junction with Skyline Boulevard (CA 35). Turn left and drive south about 2.5 miles, to the signed trailhead on the left side of the road.

TRAILHEAD DETAILS:
No entrance or parking fees. Room for 10 vehicles, with one designated handicapped parking spot. Wheelchair-accessible pit toilet at trailhead. Maps available at information signboard. No drinking water available. Although the picnic area at the trailhead is wheelchair-accessible, the trails are not suitable for wheelchairs. There is no direct public transportation to this trailhead.

POST-HIKE REFRESHMENT LOCATION:
Although it's not an official part of the hike, a big friendly group of us often mange to make our way to a fine local establishment for post-hike refreshments and cheer. All recommendations are considered; however CHEAP, plentiful food is goodness. There is no pre-planning involved so spots that can roll with a big group arriving are usually a good fit. We always like to make sure everyone can have something to eat, so variety is also nice.

** Today's Winner **
Applejacks, 8790 La Honda Rd, La Honda, CA 94020