Trailspotting Hiking California, New Hampshire and More

Stanford Dish Loop, Palo Alto CA

• 3-star hike
• 4 mile loop
• Easy | Gain 530 feet
• Palo Alto, CA | San Francisco Region
.

A large radio telescope dish stands in a green, hilly landscape, surrounded by trees and grass. Positioned in the middle distance, the telescope contrasts with rolling hills and a backdrop of clouds. Sunlight illuminates the scene, emphasizing both the natural beauty and the significance of the telescope as a tool for astronomical research.

Springtime views across the Stanford Dish park.

As we ascend the rolling hills of the Stanford Dish Loop Trail, a distinctive San Francisco Bay Area sanctuary unfolds. This beloved hiking destination in Palo Alto offers a refreshing escape without leaving the Peninsula. The park boasts great views in all directions, with panoramas that stretch across the San Francisco Bay to the east, and extend to the Santa Cruz Mountains to the west, which often can be seen holding back marine layer fog well into the afternoon.

The trail welcomes visitors with clearly marked entrances and ample bicycle racks near the trailhead for those arriving on two wheels. Car parking is only available in designated spots on Stanford Avenue, opposite the park entrance. However, empty parking spots are scarce, and nearby neighborhood streets have strict resident-only parking policies that are enthusiastically enforced.

Trail Options Expand KML · Google Earth ·

⬤ 3★ Stanford Dish Loop 3.7 mi loop, easy, gain 530 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

P Limited free parking

Stanford Dish Loop takes its name from the iconic radio telescope that crowns the hilltop — a massive dish structure used for research by Stanford University. Though not the ideal surface for hikers and runners, the path is paved with asphalt throughout, though this does help make it accessible for all, as is evident by the many people completing the loop.

The trail ascends into the hills and provides over 500 feet of elevation gain along its undulating path. Large, spiny oak trees dot the landscape, providing occasional shade and habitat for local wildlife. Fat squirrels that have grown accustomed to human presence can often be seen foraging or scampering across the path.

The trail remains a busy attraction at all times, populated by Stanford students, faculty, local residents, and visitors. Be sure to check the official website (linked below) for opening times, as access hours vary seasonally.