Monday Hike: Long Ridge & Table Mountain

It was foggy down low this morning, so I decided to head up to Skyline, where it was likely to be sunny and warmer.

The starting point was the Hickory Oaks trailhead at the southern edge of Long Ridge Preserve. The trail was sparsely wooded so I warmed up quickly and was able to take off my outer layers and enjoy the sun.

I crossed Skyline at Grizzly Flat. I saw no grizzlies. The trail had much more shade, and I had to carefully pick my way along some slippery rocks to cross Stevens Creek, twice actually. I didn’t get wet, so yay me.

I took the trail to Table Mountain, which was flattish like a table at the top. However, it did not any good views. I did see a red-tailed hawk circling around, so that was cool.

The trail back to my van was narrow and well shaded, so I had to mind the poison oak. I think I did okay with that. When I finished, I saw that the hike was longer than I had expected, but I felt pretty good and it was a very enjoyable and fun day out.

Turtle Rock
The vistas were quite nice on Long Ridge
Selfie with the ocean in the distance
Some turkeys were on the trail in front of me, but quickly got off and headed into the woods
Bridge selfie
I could see that the valley was still fogged in while I was enjoying the sun
Some mushrooms on the trail
One of the crossings of Stevens Creek. The choice of rocks to use was quite limited
Really? Doesn’t look like Palo Alto.
Again, am I really in Palo Alto?
I had to find enough rocks that weren’t submerged to cross the creek here. It wasn’t as easy as it looks.
A view of Black Mountain from Table Mountain
That is a red-tailed hawk circling around
Not a great video but still, nice to see the hawk
Berries along the trail
A small, less treacherous, creek crossing
Another cool mushroom
Interesting log
A very big tasty looking mushroom. I didn’t eat it though
A small feather I saw on the ground
A house along Skyline near the end of my hike

Posted: December 8, 2025 by

Category: Hiking