Polly Geraci Trail in Pulgas Ridge – CA

The Polly Geraci Trail in Pulgas Ridge has become one of my favorite local, dog-friendly hikes in the Peninsula.

Trail Distance: 2.2 miles
Elevation Gain: ~400 ft.
Terrain Rating: Easy
Hike Time: 45 minutes
Dog Friendly: Yes
Recommended Seasons: All

Trailhead: Pulgas Ridge parking lot in Redwood City here

Pulgas Ridge is located in Redwood City right off 280. It’s really close to the highway which makes it convenient but surprisingly you can’t hear any traffic noise! There are a lot of hikes to choose from (see the COVID-updated map below) but my personal favorite for a quick weekday walk is the Polly Geraci Trail – Hassler Trail – Blue Oak Trail. At 2.2 miles with some elevation, the trail takes around 45 minutes each time. I’ve been here during lunch breaks and after work with the dogs.

The trail starts at the parking lot (where there are also poop bags available!) and cuts to the Hassler Trail. This trail is paved but there is a dirt section on the right-hand side. Make you sure keep right at the Hassler Trail to hook onto the Polly Geraci Trail. Once you get to PGT, the trail starts to climb steadily through the trees. The climb is really gentle all the way through.

You’ll be at tree level once you reach the top of the PGT trail and then hook back to the Hassler Trail (turn left). When you reach the split again at the loop, stay right so you can go back through the switchbacks of the Blue Oak Trail.

The dogs love this trail and I personally love that the hikers here tend to be socially responsible. I’ve never seen dog poop on the ground and because the lot is fairly small, the trails are never too crowded. I also have never seen ticks on my dogs here – they’ve gotten them from Waterdog and other parks nearby.