A very special feature of Los Altos Hills is the Pathway System. Sixty-three miles of roadside and off-road paths meander through the hills and valleys of the Town, connecting various areas of the community. This network provides a valuable recreational asset for residents; the system has been designed over many years to provide non-vehicular access to the Town for walkers, runners, bicyclists, and equestrians.

The paths that travel away from the roadways are part of the Scenic Element of the Town's General Plan and provide a rare glimpse into the natural beauty of Los Altos Hills. Maintenance of the Pathway System is a joint effort between residents and the Town's maintenance crew. Residents have responsibilities to keep paths on their property clear of brush, debris, and overhanging tree branches.

Residents are not permitted to block paths with mailboxes, plants, irrigation equipment, or parked cars. It is important to be sure drainage is diverted away from paths to prevent erosion. Rototilling should be kept 5 feet away from paths. Where driveways cross a path, they must be roughened, and no sealers should be used. A slick driveway is especially dangerous for horses and their riders. The Town has a special coating available for residents to roughen existing driveways.

The Pathway System exists for the use of all Town residents. Bicyclists should yield to horseback riders and pedestrians; pedestrians should yield to horseback riders. Drivers should always display extreme caution when passing bicyclists, equestrians and all pathway users. Pedestrians should walk facing traffic. Bicyclists should ride with traffic and move to the side of the road as vehicles approach. The Los Altos Hills pathway system also provides a link to local and surrounding open space recreation areas and is viewed by many as one of the Town's greatest assets. A comprehensive map of the Pathway System is available at Town Hall.