Three guidebooks on places to walk and hike Three guidebooks on places to walk and hike (December 31, 2003)

To learn about more interesting and challenging trails to explore, there's no better source than the series of three trail guidebooks, co-authored by Ladera resident Jean Rusmore.

Ms. Rusmore has hiked all the trails listed in the guidebooks, which have detailed information on how to get there, distances, time, elevation and trail notes.

The three guidebooks are:

** "Peninsula Trails: Outdoor Adventures on the San Francisco Peninsula," by Jean Rusmore, Frances Spangle and Betsy Crowder.

** "South Bay Trails: Outdoor Adventures in and around Santa Clara Valley," also by Jean Rusmore, Frances Spangle and Betsy Crowder.

** "The Bay Area Ridge Trail: Ridgetop Adventures Above San Francsico Bay," by Jean Rusmore in cooperation with the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council.

Other resources:

** Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District has preserved 42,000 acres of foothill and Baylands open space during its 31 years. Call 691-1200 or go online to www.openspace.org.

** San Mateo County has developed a network of 17 parks, preserves and open spaces from San Bruno Mountain Park to Fitzgerald Marine Preserve on the coast; Huddart and Wunderlich parks in Woodside; and Flood Park in Menlo Park. Call San Mateo County Parks and Recreation Department at 363-4020 or check online at www.eparks.net.

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