Adventures in spandex: Bay Area bike trails
* Baylands Preserve,
Palo Alto
Getting Out: This preserve once partially served as a harbor and site of production for industrial plants. Today, its 1,940 acres of open space and 15 miles of trails attract cyclists, hikers and birdwatchers alike. Despite its past, the preserve also boasts the largest tract of undisturbed marshland in the San Francisco Bay.
When the businesses moved, various reclamation projects jumped onto the undulating wetlands. Despite their efforts, tell-tale signs of the polluting past still speckle the landscape. Keep an eye out for rusty pylons, cracked foundations and even old machine parts.
But don't judge too quickly--this wasteland exudes a wonderful ambience of historical poignancy. In fact, plaques along the trails give information and show photographs of the preserve's previous life. Plus, the post-apocalyptic feel is really exciting.
Scanning the horizon, one may spot the Stanford University clock tower and the monstrous blimp hanger at Moffett Field.
But be warned, the preserve is also bordered by a small landfill and an even smaller landing strip.
During my two trips to this location, propeller airplanes took off right over the open space. Watch for refurbished 1940s fighters--they may be repainted but their silhouettes are unmistakable.
Per the wildlife, the ubiquitous ducks and seagulls waddle into the trail like suicidal Santa Clara squirrels. Also, hundreds of geese roam the space and it's worth learning the difference between the males and females. Here's a hint: the males bite.
And if you are lucky, you might see some of the adorable chipmunks who bury throughout the wetland.
Overall, this location offers the best afternoon adventure in the area. The sense of space diffuses stress while the familiarity of the horizon conveys a sense of home.
Throw in semi-hostile wildlife and muddy trails and you won't find a better weekend bubble-buster.
Location: Take 101 North toward San Francisco. Exit at Embarcadero East. This sleepy road will dead-end at the entrance to the preserve. Turn right at the entrance and park at the duck pond on your left. Feeding the already-obese ducks is optional.
--Nick Norman
* Los Gatos Creek Trail
Getting Out: On most days you'll be pleasantly surprised by the shade-giving trees, bird life and the steady sound of trickling water along this calm, paved path, winding comfortably along Los Gatos Creek.
Though both Highway 17 and concrete business buildings are visible throughout the length of the trail, Santa Clara County touts the land as an important water resource and natural habitat.
The trail passes through several larger bodies of water, including Vasona Lake and Lexington Reservoir. Both locations have their own parks, complete with parking and picnic facilities, so pack a bottle of wine and some sandwiches for a romantic afternoon semi-getaway.
The trail doesn't offer much of a challenge for the experienced biker. In fact, the smooth pavement and rare elevation change make the Los Gatos Creek Trail the perfect place for all kind of wheels--skateboards, bicycles, roller blades and scooters are all permitted.
The last time I visited, I enjoyed the relaxing pace and nearby stream life, but I wouldn't recommend this trail for anyone looking for an aerobic ride or a real adventure.
Also, it's a popular route for the early morning jogging crowd, and navigating around slower runners gets old fast. But with the close location, no driving is required to reach the trail's access points.
If you happen upon this trail on a weekend mid-morning, you might find it difficult to cycle past the throngs of spandex-clad society moms out for their weekly social walk with their family dogs.
But whether walking or biking, the Los Gatos Creek Trail offers a slow-paced alternative to the usual Sunday afternoon procrastination. So grab your wheels and get out of the bubble.
Location: From San Jose, the closest access point to the trail is at Blackford Elementary School near the intersection of Leigh Avenue and Willow Street.
The trail spans over nine miles, and alternate access points are found in Campbell at Campbell Park, Los Gatos at Vasona County Park and the Lexington Reservoir Dam.
--Timithie Gould