Bay Nature

1189 acre Park managed by: Stanford University

Jasper Ridge’s 1,189 hilly acres on the ridge above Stanford University encompass habitats ranging from sunny grassland to shady creek corridor and from oak woodland to Douglas-fir and redwood forest. As a nature preserve and biological field station owned by the university, its diversity of plants, wildlife, ecosystems, and geology offers researchers and those interested in learning about natural history a living laboratory for scientific study and education.

In keeping with its mission “to contribute to the understanding of the Earth’s natural systems through research, education, and protection of the Preserve’s resources,” Jasper Ridge is only open to the public by appointment through docent-led group tours in October through May. Tours typically involve 2 to 2.5 hours of walking on hilly terrain and are open to visitors ages 14 and up (babies in backpacks are also allowed). No dogs. Information about tours is available on the preserve’s website.