The best walks and hikes in Lexington Reservoir County Park (Closed Area)

Lexington Reservoir County Park offers a wide selection of routes, with over 60 hiking trails to explore. These range from easy walks to more challenging climbs, catering to various fitness levels.

Yes, a specific area of Lexington Reservoir County Park, located west of Highway 17 between Beardsley and Montevina Roads, is currently inaccessible and closed to the public. However, the main recreational areas around the reservoir and connecting to adjacent preserves remain open for hiking.

Absolutely. The park features 31 easy routes. A great option for families or beginners is the Saint Josephs Hill Summit — Saint Josephs Hill Open Space Preserve, an easy 3.3-mile path offering expansive overlooks. Another popular choice is the Flume Trail loop from Los Gatos, which is 3.9 miles through shaded woodlands.

Many trails offer stunning views over the 338-acre Lexington Reservoir. Hikes like the Saint Josephs Hill Summit provide panoramic vistas of the Santa Clara Valley, distant mountains in the Diablo Range, the Sierra Azul Range, and the reservoir itself. The Priest Rock & Limekiln Trails loop also offers excellent reservoir views.

The park features diverse terrain, including rolling hills, shaded oak woodlands, and sun-exposed chaparral slopes. You'll find a mix of environments, from fragrant bay laurel and eucalyptus trees to open areas with panoramic views. The interconnected trail system also links to adjacent natural spaces like the Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve.

Lexington Reservoir County Park is home to diverse wildlife. Hikers often spot deer, various bird species like herons and egrets near the water's edge, and occasionally bobcats for observant visitors.

Yes, you can experience redwood trees in the area. Consider the Bear Creek Summit through Old Growth Redwood Trees Preserve, a moderate 7.5-mile hike, or the shorter Old Growth Redwood Trees loop from Lexington Reservoir County Park, an easy 2.5-mile option.

The trails in Lexington Reservoir County Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 140 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the varied terrain, the beautiful reservoir views, and the extensive, interconnected trail system that offers options for all abilities.

While hiking is enjoyable year-round, spring offers lush greenery and wildflowers, while fall provides pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage. Summer can be warm, so early morning or late afternoon hikes are recommended. Winter offers cooler temperatures, but trails can be muddy after rain.

Yes, for those seeking a longer or more challenging experience, there are 9 difficult routes and 24 moderate routes. The Bear Creek Summit through Old Growth Redwood Trees Preserve is a moderate 7.5-mile hike with significant elevation gain, offering a good workout and rewarding views.

Beyond hiking, Lexington Reservoir offers opportunities for shoreline fishing and limited-power boating, such as canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Many trails provide excellent access to the reservoir's edge for these activities.