The best walks and hikes in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve

The Madrone Knoll Loop offers a deep dive into the serene, shaded forests of Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve. This moderate 7.4-mile (12.0 km) hike features a mix of dirt, grass, and gravel paths winding through mixed woodland, including attractive redwood groves and sections with distinctive madrone and tanoak trees. You'll experience a sustained ascent with 1482 feet (452 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 3 hours and 40 minutes to complete, providing a rewarding workout amidst lush foliage and rich undergrowth.

Planning your visit requires preparing for a significant climb, so bring plenty of water. The trail's consistent shade is a major plus, making it enjoyable even on warmer days. While the Madrone Knoll Loop may not offer sweeping panoramic views, it provides an immersive forest experience that feels less busy than other popular routes in the area, perfect for those seeking a quieter connection with nature.

This trail is part of the Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve, an area that has only recently opened to public access, with trails becoming available in 2019 and lower sections in 2024. The preserve is known for some of the most attractive, tall, and straight redwoods east of Skyline Ridge. Keep an eye out for various bird species, though the dense undergrowth can make spotting mammals a challenge.

Step into a world of ancient giants on the Old Growth Redwood Trees loop, a serene and easily accessible trail that winds through a rich ecosystem of towering redwoods. The path is well-shaded by the dense canopy, offering a cool and pleasant journey where you can observe the unique interconnected branches and natural erosion patterns of these magnificent trees. This loop provides a peaceful escape into nature, immersing you in the quiet grandeur of the forest.

This easy 2.5-mile (4.0 km) hiking route, with a manageable 546 feet (166 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete. The trail is part of Lexington Reservoir County Park, which operates year-round from 8 a.m. to sunset, making it a convenient option for a quick nature fix. Parking is available at the park, and the shaded conditions make it enjoyable even on warmer days.

Beyond the redwoods, Lexington Reservoir County Park is a diverse natural habitat, featuring chaparral, grasslands, and mixed conifer areas surrounding a 338-acre reservoir. The park is also part of the Bay Area Ridge Trail and sits near a section of the San Andreas Fault. Historically, low water levels in the reservoir can sometimes reveal remnants of the submerged towns of Lexington and Alma, adding a fascinating historical layer to your visit.

The Limekiln and Priest Rock Trail Loop offers a diverse hiking experience, transitioning from shaded bay laurel forests along a creek to open chaparral with sweeping views. You'll navigate challenging, steep sections, particularly on the Priest Rock Trail, but the reward is expansive vistas of the Bay Area and surrounding mountains as you gain elevation. It's a moderate 5.5-mile (8.9 km) route with 1076 feet (328 metres) of climbing, typically taking 2 hours and 45 minutes, perfect for those seeking a good workout and stunning scenery.

Planning your visit means being aware that this is a multi-use trail, so you'll share the path with mountain bikers and runners. The exposed sections can get quite hot, so consider an early start or visiting during cooler months to make the most of your hike. While specific parking details aren't always highlighted, arriving early is generally a good strategy for popular trailheads in the Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve.

This loop is a prime example of the varied terrain within Santa Clara County, showcasing both dense woodlands and sun-drenched chaparral. The significant elevation gains make it a popular choice for those looking for a strenuous workout, and the numerous viewpoints offer rewarding panoramic scenes. It's a great option if you're looking for challenging loop hikes in the Limekiln area with diverse ecosystems.

If you're seeking a rewarding hike with diverse scenery and great views, the Manzanita and Novitiate Loop Trail delivers. This route winds through oak woodlands and chaparral, showcasing abundant manzanita plants and vibrant wildflowers in spring. You'll enjoy panoramic vistas of Lexington Reservoir and the surrounding hills, with the Saint Josephs Hill summit offering distant glimpses of the San Francisco Bay on clear days. Expect a mix of terrain, from dirt paths to rocky sections, with some steeper climbs on the Novitiate Trail portion.

This easy 3.3-mile (5.3 km) loop, featuring 585 feet (178 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 36 minutes to complete. It's a popular choice due to its accessibility from downtown Los Gatos, and parking is usually available at the trailhead. Consider visiting in spring to experience the trail at its most colorful, though it offers a pleasant outing year-round.

St. Joseph's Hill Open Space Preserve is known for its varied ecosystems, providing a habitat for local wildlife such as rabbits, lizards, and various bird species. While enjoying the natural beauty, be aware that mountain lions, bobcats, and rattlesnakes have also been reported in the preserve. The interconnected trail system here, including the Jones Trail and Range Trail, offers options for extending your adventure if you wish.