Stanford Dish Loop Trail is a 3.7 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Stanford, California that offers scenic views and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for walking and running and is accessible year-round.
As of December 2020, this loop can only be hiked one-way due to COVID-19 restrictions. For more information, please see https://dish.stanford.edu/ The Stanford Dish loop is a popular route for Stanford University students as well as Silicon Valley professionals. The area is named after the large radio telescope that can not be missed. Its steep paved trail is suitable for running, walking, and hiking. Bicycles are not allowed. Opening hours vary depending on the month of the year: January: 6:30 AM-5:30 PM February: 6:30 AM-6 PM March: 6 AM-6:30 PM April - August: 6 AM-8 PM September: 6:30 AM-7:30 PM October: 6:30 AM-6:30 PM November - December: 6:30 AM-5:30 PM The route periodically closes for Red Flag Warnings. To see current information, please see https://dish.stanford.edu/ Accessibility: The trail is completely paved, smooth, and is typically at least five feet wide. The grade is estimated at 5% or less but the path is hilly and there are two areas where the grade is very steep and exceeds 12% (at 0.2 miles and 2.5 miles). Wheelchair/mobility equipment or stroller users may require assistance due to the steep sections or this full route may not be possible for equipment users.
There is some parking available along Stanford Avenue and on the weekends some park at Nixon Elementary School.
Parking bit difficult to find closeby. Had to walk 20 min to get here.
Make sure you know when the trail closes down bc they will straight up kick you off and make your finish your walk on the highway. I don’t know why the security guy at the entrance wasn’t saying anything to any of us walking in a half hour before close. It’s also one way so you can’t just turn around on your trail and return the way you came. I am not sure what the purpose of security is if not to keep your safe.
A perfect trail to build endurance or enjoy a casual stroll. Beautiful sunset views of the South Bay, especially the Stanford campus and Portola Valley.
Great morning walk. Was foggy so I couldn’t quite see this dish but really nice.