High Meadow Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features Views · Wildlife

The trail has some rocks and roots in it, but it is a pretty popular trail for runners.

The High Meadow Trail climbs for .9 miles from the Coyote Trail to a set of fields in the upper hills of Rancho San Antonio Preserve where good views of the South Bay area await you. In the morning and evenings, deer and turkeys can been seen feeding in the fields. It's a nice uphill run that can be combined with trails like the Wildcat Loop Trail to create a nice loop run instead of simply running out and back.

The trail starts from the junction of the Coyote Trail and Wildcat Loop Trail and climbs uphill through the preserve. The doubletrack dirt and gravel trail climbs to the right and works its way around the hillside before entering the woods. At around .25 miles, the trail begins to climb up a series of switchbacks. Around .6 miles, the trail begins to emerge from the woods and obscured or limited views of the South Bay begin to appear. Meadows begin to open up on the left hand side of the trail.

At .7 miles, the trail begins to climb more steeply until it reaches the intersection of the Wildcat Loop Trail. The trail climbs up to the left to a vista point where the best views from the trail of the Bay Area spread out before you. It is a great place to view the sunset before taking one of the trails back down to your car. You can follow the trail back down to your vehicle or follow the Wildcat Loop Trail which goes off to the right and makes its way down a series of switchbacks back to the Rogue Valley Trail and then back to the parking area.

Deer, turkeys, rabbits and coyotes can be seen in the woods and in fields, especially in the mornings or evenings. Mountain lions have been seen in Rancho San Antonio Preserve, specifically along this trail. Use caution in the early mornings or late evenings and make sure you familiarize yourself with what to do if you encounter one of these cats.