The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve (Closed Areas)
4.6
(225)
3,694
hikers
106
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve (Closed Areas) traverse a diverse landscape within the Santa Cruz Mountains. The preserve features rugged and steep terrain, encompassing serpentine grasslands, rocky chaparral, dense bay tree stands, and shaded oak woodlands. Hikers can explore deep ravines and riparian corridors, often with seasonal water flows. Significant peaks like Mount Umunhum and Mount El Sombroso define the area, offering varied elevation gains and panoramic views.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve (Closed Areas)
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Manzanita and Novitiate Loop Trail, an easy 3.3 miles (5.3 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 36 minutes to complete, offering accessible paths through varied vegetation.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Priest Rock Trail β Sierra Azul Open Space loop from Lexington Reservoir County Park, a moderate 5.7 miles (9.1 km) path. This route provides views of Lexington Reservoir and leads into the preserve's diverse habitats.
- Local hikers also love the Randol and New Almaden Trail Loop, a 4.8 miles (7.7 km) trail leading through woodlands and open areas, often completed in about 2 hours 17 minutes.
- Hiking in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve (Closed Areas) is defined by rugged terrain, oak woodlands, and panoramic viewpoints. The extensive network offers options for different ability levels, from easy walks to more challenging ascents.
- The routes in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve (Closed Areas) are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 220 reviews. More than 3,700 hikers have used komoot to explore Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve (Closed Areas)'s varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
7
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
35
hikers
7.72km
02:17
240m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
10
hikers
14.8km
04:21
430m
430m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
55.0km
16:32
1,670m
1,930m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(12)
78
hikers
5.31km
01:36
180m
180m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Mount Umunhum in the background
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A scenic stop just off the winding roads of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Lexington Reservoir County Park is a great spot to catch your breath and enjoy the view. The smooth pavement along Alma Bridge Road makes it a popular stretch for cyclists, with rolling terrain and minimal traffic. There's parking, restrooms, and shaded areas if you need a break. From here, you can loop toward Los Gatos or push deeper into the climbs of Highway 17 and Old Santa Cruz Highway.
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You'll want to have your maps downloaded and your route planned once you reach this point. Two trails diverge here and short distance down the Castillero Trail you'll have the option to take up the English Camp Trail.
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From this point just off the New Almaden Trail you'll have an excellent view across San Jose and the surrounding hills.
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An excellent spot to take a break and enjoy the full breath of Lexington Reservoir. There is a Plaque dedicated to deputy Douglas B. Miller, who was fatally wounded while performing his duties.
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Randol Trail runs parallel to Mine Hill Trail but is situated at a lower elevation on the San Francisco Bay Area side. Originally built as a mining road to access the historic Day Tunnel, the trail is a lovely wide, well-maintained path winding through grassy fields, brush, and beautiful wooded landscapes with nice San Francisco South Bay Area views.
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This junction offers many options for continuing to explore the park. From here, you can stay to the left on Mine Hill Trail to extend your hike and connect with other trails to the west. Explore the small April Trail loop northwest or east onto the Great Eastern Trail to connect with Randol and several trails on the east side of the grounds.
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At this point along the track you'll gain lovely views of the reservoir. Guadalupe Reservoir, lies approximately 5 miles south of San Jose. Situated at an elevation of 614 feet, it covers a surface area of 74 acres and boasts a capacity of 4,212,000 mΒ³.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve (Closed Areas)?
There are over 100 hiking trails in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve (Closed Areas) suitable for families. More than 50 of these are rated as easy, offering plenty of options for various skill levels and ages.
Are there any easy trails suitable for families with young children or beginners?
Yes, many trails are perfect for families and beginners. For an accessible option, consider the Manzanita and Novitiate Loop Trail, which is rated as easy and offers a pleasant experience for all ages.
What kind of views can we expect on family hikes in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve?
The preserve offers breathtaking panoramic views. Depending on your chosen trail, you can enjoy vistas of Lexington Reservoir, the Santa Clara Valley, and even distant sights of the wider Bay Area, including Mount Tamalpais and Mount Diablo. Many trails ascend to points offering expansive scenery.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve?
Yes, many trails within Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve are multi-use and dog-friendly. It's always best to keep your dog on a leash and ensure you clean up after them to preserve the natural environment for everyone.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Yes, there are several circular routes that are great for families. The Priest Rock Trail β Sierra Azul Open Space loop from Lexington Reservoir County Park is a moderate option that provides a rewarding loop experience with diverse scenery.
What interesting landmarks or natural features can we see along the trails?
You'll find several interesting features. The preserve is home to diverse ecosystems, from serpentine grasslands to shaded oak woodlands. Notable attractions include the prominent Mount Umunhum, with its historic radar tower visible at the summit, and the scenic Guadalupe Reservoir. The Kennedy Trail also offers great views.
What is the best time of year to visit Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve with family?
Spring and fall are generally the most pleasant times to visit. In spring, you can enjoy vibrant wildflowers, while fall offers cooler temperatures and clear skies. Summers can be hot, especially on exposed trails, so an early start is recommended if hiking during this season.
Are there any trails that are stroller-friendly?
While many trails are rugged, some sections, particularly those closer to trailheads or accessible pathways like the 0.3-mile path at the Mount Umunhum summit, might be suitable for sturdy strollers. However, the preserve's terrain is generally rugged and steep, so it's advisable to check specific trail conditions if you plan to use a stroller.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve (Closed Areas)?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.59 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning panoramic views, the diverse natural landscapes, and the well-maintained multi-use trails that cater to various activities.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
Yes, parking is available at various trailheads throughout the preserve, including the Bald Mountain parking area for Mount Umunhum and access points near Lexington Reservoir. It's always a good idea to arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up quickly.
Can we see any wildlife while hiking with our family?
Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve is rich in wildlife. Hikers often spot various bird species, deer, and smaller mammals. While less common, the preserve is also home to mountain lions, so it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep children close.
Most popular routes in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve (Closed Areas)
Most popular attractions in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve (Closed Areas)
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