4.8
(15)
236
hikers
24
hikes
Easy hiking trails in Uvas Reservoir County Park are found within a 1,017-acre natural space nestled below the Santa Cruz Mountains. The park features the artificial Uvas Reservoir, offering views of the water and informal walking paths along its shoreline. Beyond the reservoir, the landscape transitions to rolling grasslands and classic California oak groves, providing varied terrain for hikers. Shaded trails and forested paths are also present in the surrounding hills.
Last updated: August 18, 2026
2.87km
00:46
20m
30m
Enjoy an easy 1.8-mile hike around Uvas Reservoir County Park, offering scenic views of the reservoir, rolling hills, and oak groves.
6.00km
01:53
250m
240m
The Ridge Trail and Blackhawk Loop offers a delightful escape into the varied ecosystems of Santa Clara County. As you hike, you'll pass through cool redwood groves, mixed woodlands with…

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5.0
(1)
13
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
73
hikers
5.69km
01:49
240m
230m
The Upper, Basin, and Black Rock Falls via Contour and Waterfall Loop offers a delightful escape into a lush, tranquil environment. You will wander through towering coastal redwood forests, following…
5.0
(1)
15
hikers
2.31km
00:46
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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A cute waterfall but not much going on during summer (we were here in July).
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This is a nice little pond to refresh in during the summer. The rest of the valley is really nice but a bit low on water in July.
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Ridge Trail is a popular destination in the Mount Madonna County Park. There is a nice mix of shaded areas through the trees and overlooks. Leashed dogs are allowed (but beware of mountain lions).
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Uvas Creek was dammed in 1957 to create this reservoir, which is used to provide water for the residents and industry in the area. The reservoir and surrounding area form the Uvas Reservoir County Park.
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Along the Alec Canyon Trail there is a nice viewpoint to take a quick breather and enjoy the views that overlook a valley and mountain ridges.
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The Mount Madonna County Park offers a diverse hiking experience with a big trail system, leading through redwood forests and along scenic vistas. The trails vary in difficulty, providing options for both casual strolls and more challenging hikes.
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This is a very small waterfall, which, with its nearby counterparts, makes the Waterfall Loop and Contour Trails special.
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Uvas Reservoir County Park offers a good selection of easy hiking trails. There are 12 routes specifically categorized as easy, out of a total of 25 hiking routes in the park, providing ample choice for a relaxed outdoor experience.
Easy hikes in Uvas Reservoir County Park feature diverse and picturesque scenery. You'll enjoy beautiful views of the Uvas Reservoir and its shoreline, rolling grasslands, and classic California oak groves. Some trails also lead through shaded woodlands, offering a cooler, immersive nature experience.
Yes, there are easy loop trails available. For example, the Ridge Trail and Blackhawk Loop is an easy 3.7-mile path that takes you through varied terrain, including forested sections and open areas. Another option is the Mount Madonna County Park loop from Mount Madonna County Park, which is 3.1 miles long and leads through oak groves and woodlands.
Absolutely. The park is well-suited for families, with many easy trails designed for accessible and enjoyable experiences. The informal walking paths along the reservoir shoreline are particularly flat and easy, perfect for all ages. Picnic areas with reservoir views also make it ideal for a family outing.
While the region research does not specify dog rules for Uvas Reservoir County Park, generally, county parks in California allow dogs on leash. It's always best to check the official Santa Clara County Parks website for the most current regulations regarding dogs on trails within Uvas Reservoir County Park before your visit.
Uvas Reservoir County Park is open year-round from 8 a.m. until sunset. Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant weather for hiking, with mild temperatures. Summer can be warm, so early mornings or late afternoons are preferable, especially on less shaded trails. Winter hiking is also possible, though some paths might be muddy after rain.
No, there are no fees required for entry to Uvas Reservoir County Park, making it an accessible option for hikers looking to explore the area.
Uvas Reservoir County Park offers various parking areas. Given the focus on easy trails, look for parking lots that provide direct access to the reservoir shoreline paths or the main trailheads within the park. Specific parking details for individual routes are often available on the komoot tour pages.
The diverse habitats of Uvas Reservoir County Park, including the reservoir, woodlands, and grasslands, support various wildlife. Hikers often spot different bird species, especially near the water, and may encounter deer or other small mammals in the oak groves and forested areas. It's a great spot for nature observation.
Uvas Reservoir County Park focuses on reservoir views, rolling hills, and oak groves, offering peaceful, generally easier walks. In contrast, Uvas Canyon County Park is a separate entity known specifically for its multiple waterfalls and can feature more rugged terrain, though it also has easier sections. If you're looking for reservoir scenery and gentle paths, Uvas Reservoir County Park is your destination.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 20 reviews. Reviewers often praise the tranquil atmosphere, the scenic reservoir views, and the accessibility of the trails for a relaxing outdoor experience. The Uvas Reservoir route, in particular, is popular for its direct views and easy nature.
For a quick and easy outing, consider the Uvas Reservoir trail. It's a 1.8-mile route that typically takes about 45 minutes to complete, offering pleasant views of the reservoir and its natural surroundings without significant elevation gain.


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