Discover Lost Trail (off Hwy 35)

This is *not* an official Sierra Club hike. You need to sign a waiver at the trailhead, but you also need to take responsibility for yourself.

Discover Lost Trail, starting at the Anniversary Trail parking area on Hwy 35 (NOT at Windy Hills' main lot on Portola Rd.). We'll go out 1.5-2.0 miles before turning around and retracing our steps.
Elevation gain: about 200'. The path is packed dirt and a gentle grade - no steep sections.

What's special about this trail? Unlike some parks where the grass is already turning brown, the foliage in this area is green and lush. A good assortment of wildflowers add color to the trailside. And several places open up to a full Bay Area view. A little-known gem.

Bring plenty of water and a snack. Because of stinging nettle plants close to the trail, long pants are recommended. After recent rains, there may be a few muddy places, warranting good hiking shoes and possibly poles for stability in those slippery spots.
Dress in layers according to the weather forecast.

Restroom at trailhead. No other facilities.

The Ohlones were the native Americans living here when the Europeans arrived. Gaspar de Portola visited the area in 1769, leading to Spanish ranchos displacing the Ohlones. After 1880 logging became important. In the 1940's the nearby Ladera community was developed on a former ranch. The owners of the Windy Hill area proposed a similar plan for their property, but local residents opposed it. Fortunately for us, they were successful.

Afterwards everyone is welcome to join the leader for lunch at Alice's Restaurant, 2.4 miles north of our trailhead at the intersection of Hwys 35 and 84.

Directions: From the south, head up Hwy 35. After the junction with Page Mill Rd., continue an additional 5.0 miles. Off-road parking on the right.
From the north, head west from Hwy 280 at Woodside Rd. At the junction with Hwy 35, turn left for 2.4 miles. Off-road parking on the left.

Carpools: Consider sharing the ride to the trailhead. The leader can take 2 people from Saratoga, leaving at 9:10 am. Contact Suzanne at 408/483-4191 to reserve a spot and get rendezvous directions.