In brief:
1.7 mile easy loop up, around, and down a canyon in Belmont.

Distance, category, and difficulty:
This 1.7 mile loop hike is easy, with about 450 feet in elevation change. Some trails are wide and nicely graded while others are steep and rutted. Trailhead elevation is around 320 feet, and the high spot is around 670 feet.

Exposure:
Mix of shade and sun.

Trail traffic:
Moderate.

Trail surfaces:
Dirt trails and fire road.

Hiking time:
1 1/2 hours.

Season:
Nice any time, but muddy in winter.

Getting there:

From Interstate 280 in San Mateo County, exit CA92 East. Almost immediately, exit 9A at Ralston. At the end of the exit ramp, turn left onto Ralston. Drive 1.8 miles, then turn right onto Lyall Way. Drive 0.2 mile, then turn left onto Lake Road. Drive 0.1 mile and turn right onto Carlmont. Follow Carlmont to the end of the road and the Hidden Canyon parking area.

GPS Coordinates* for Trailhead:
Latitude 37�°30'11.94"N
Longitude
122�°17'55.21"W
(* based on Google Earth data, shown as degrees, minutes, seconds)

Gas, food, and lodging:
Gas, pay phone, and stores in surrounding towns.

Trailhead details:
Parking for a few cars in a small lot, and room for more along Carlmont Drive. No parking or entrance fees. No restrooms or drinking water. No designated handicapped parking, and trails are not suitable for wheelchairs. No paper maps at the trailhead. There is no direct public transportation to the park.

Rules:
Trails are multiuse. Dogs are permitted on leash.

The Official Story:
Belmont Parks and Open Spaces
Belmont Parks and Open Spaces 650-595-7441

Map Choices:

Map from Belmont




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