{due west} 54 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY OF DAVID BARON / COURTESY OF KRISTIN catch your breath at the pier. If you own a fishing rod, it’s also a great place to cast for carp and bass. As you’ve probably guessed by the name, you’re welcome to bring canine companions along. Keep a lookout for mountain bikers and poison oak. belmont.gov + Water Dog North Trailhead, Lake Road at Hallmark Drive, Belmont + Dogs allowed + Dirt trail + Street parking Water Dog Lake Loop Trail BELMONT Tucked into a quiet Belmont neighborhood, this hidden gem of a trail leads to Water Dog Lake. As you hike along this 1.5mile dirt track, trees shade your way and lizards are bound to dart across your path. Though steep in places, the payoff is elevated outlooks across the Bay, making it well worth the extra effort. For a shorter route, take the halfmile John Brooks Trailhead off of Somerset Drive. Once you’ve reached the lake, Foothills Nature Preserve & Boronda Lake PALO ALTO Boronda Lake, cradled by the surrounding hills and lined by bulrushes, is the crowning glory of Palo Alto’s Foothills Nature Preserve. After taking an easy loop around the lake, cross the bridge and investigate the island. Find a bench by the water and keep a lookout for small bass and redear sunfish—or get a closer view from a canoe (rentals available on weekends and holidays from May 1 to October 31). If you’re up for a challenge, take on the steeper inclines of the surrounding trails. With 15 miles of oak-shaded paths to choose from, the 2-mile loop of the Woodrat and Toyan trails will give you a lay of the land. As you continue down the Toyon Trail, keep an eye out for its namesake. The toyon shrub— also known as California holly due to its red, glossy berries—is a favorite among peckish birds. More species for your wildlife bingo card: slender salamanders, duskyfooted woodrats, deer, coyotes, dragonflies and (if you’re lucky) bobcats. Nature walks, full-moon night hikes, astronomy star parties and summer campfire programs are offered throughout the year. cityofpaloalto.org/enjoyonline + 11799 Page Mill Road, Los Altos Hills + $6 entry fee (free passes available through Palo Alto libraries) + Packed dirt trails, hilly terrain + Dogs allowed, except for weekends and holidays
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