1.
James J. Lenihan Dam – Lexington Reservoir Overlook loop from Lexington Reservoir County Park
4.06km
01:14
140m
140m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve
By Fede from komoot
·
Updated May 11, 2026
If you've ever tried planning hiking in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails winding through this beautiful area, it's tough to figure out which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which might just be filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has explored, mapped, and reviewed these trails, and we've distilled all that local knowledge into a curated shortlist, saving you the guesswork.
Hiking here means immersing yourself in the Santa Cruz Mountains, where towering second-growth redwoods dominate, alongside lush Douglas fir and oak woodlands. Perennial creeks add to the serene atmosphere, and while many trails are easy, you'll find varied terrain that offers a real sense of escape. It's a peaceful place, perfect for shaded walks even on warmer days.
For a classic experience, we'd start with the James J. Lenihan Dam – Lexington Reservoir Overlook loop, an easy 2.5 miles (4.1 km) route that offers lovely views of the reservoir. If you're looking for something a bit shorter and even more tranquil, the John Nicholas Trail to Lake Ranch Reservoir is a fantastic easy 1.5 miles (2.4 km) path leading to a peaceful lake. With an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 150 reviews, you can trust that these routes are well-loved. Dive in and discover your next favorite trail with komoot.
If you only do 3 of these routes
Compare these routes at a glance
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| James J. Lenihan Dam – Lexington Reservoir Overlook loop from Lexington Reservoir County Park | 4.06 km | 140 m | Easy |
| John Nicholas Trail to Lake Ranch Reservoir | 2.40 km | 40 m | Easy |
| Saint Josephs Hill summit loop from Los Gatos | 5.32 km | 200 m | Easy |
| Camden Ponds – Vasona Lake loop from Cambrian Park | 16.5 km | 80 m | Moderate |
2.
John Nicholas Trail to Lake Ranch Reservoir
2.40km
00:40
40m
60m
The John Nicholas Trail to Lake Ranch Reservoir offers a delightful, shaded walk through a diverse forest, making it one of the popular trails for a quick nature fix in Santa Clara County. You'll wander beneath towering redwoods, firs, and oaks, with the path leading you to the serene Lake Ranch Reservoir, a tranquil spot often frequented by ducks and other wildlife. Keep an eye out for wildflowers and ferns along the way, adding splashes of color to the lush green surroundings.
This easy 1.5-mile (2.4 km) out-and-back hike involves a minimal 133 feet (40 metres) of elevation gain, taking roughly 40 minutes to complete. The trail is wide and smooth, making it very family-friendly and suitable for dog walkers. Parking is available at the Black Road trailhead, but it's a well-loved spot, so consider an early start to beat the crowds, especially if you're visiting on a weekend.
Beyond its natural beauty, the John Nicholas Trail is notable for its excellent construction, featuring well-built footbridges and hand-hewn stone culverts that blend seamlessly with the environment. It's a multi-use trail, so you'll share it with mountain bikers and equestrians, adding to the dynamic atmosphere. For those interested in local history, you might even spot a special tree stump autographed by the California Conservation Corps staff who helped build this beautifully designed route.
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3.
Saint Josephs Hill summit loop from Los Gatos
5.32km
01:39
200m
200m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.
Camden Ponds – Vasona Lake loop from Cambrian Park
16.5km
04:15
80m
80m
The Camden Ponds – Vasona Lake loop from Cambrian Park offers a delightful journey through diverse landscapes, perfect for a long, accessible walk. You'll trace the willow-shaded banks of Los Gatos Creek, enjoy panoramic views of Vasona Lake, and explore tranquil oak woodlands and open fields. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, especially birds, around the Camden Ponds wetlands, making this a rewarding experience for nature lovers.
This 10.2-mile (16.5 km) route is rated moderate, with a gentle 278 feet (85 metres) of elevation gain, and typically takes about 4 hours and 15 minutes. It's a multi-use trail, so you'll share the path with cyclists and runners. The terrain is a mix of paved and natural surfaces, making it suitable for a wide range of users, including families looking for family friendly hikes near Cambrian Park.
Beyond the natural beauty, the trail connects to Vasona Lake County Park, which offers family-oriented attractions like the Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad and picnic areas. Vasona Lake itself provides opportunities for paddle boating, fishing, and kayaking. This connectivity and the varied recreational options make it a standout among circular walks in the Cambrian Park area.
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Tips from the Community
This non-profit organization was founded in 1968 in an effort to preserve the history of the steam locomotive and commemorate the life of Billy Jones.
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Alex
June 10, 2025, Los Gatos Creek Trail
The Los Gatos Creek Trail offers a safe paved trail for walkers, joggers, cyclists, skaters, and nature lovers. Spanning multiple jurisdictions, it runs from San Jose through Campbell and Los Gatos, managed by agencies from these areas. The Campbell section has some nice shady spots, a gazebo, and an exercise circuit near Campbell Park; the whole trail spans about 10 miles.
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Alex
January 10, 2025, Forbes Mill Museum
Forbes Mill Museum, housed in a two-story building of the original 1854 flour mill, offers a glimpse into Los Gatos' history. Built by James Alexander Forbes as California's first commercial flour mill, over the years, it served various roles, including a power plant and a PG&E substation. Saved from demolition in 1982, the building now features historical exhibits as part of New Museum Los Gatos.
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Zachary
September 19, 2024, James J. Lenihan Dam
From the top of the dam you get splendid views out across Lexington Reservoir. To the north you overlook the winding end of the Los Gatos Creek Trail, which connects to the Jones Trail across from the restroom just up the road. The dam itself was constructed in 1952 and stands at nearly 200 feet tall.
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Alex
September 15, 2024, Los Gatos Creek Trail (Campbell)
The Los Gatos Creek Trail offers a safe paved trail for walkers, joggers, cyclists, skaters, and nature lovers. Spanning multiple jurisdictions, it runs from San Jose through Campbell and Los Gatos, managed by agencies from these areas. The Campbell section has some nice shady spots, a gazebo, and an exercise circuit near Campbell Park; the whole trail spans about 10 miles.
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Alex
February 22, 2024, St. Joseph's Hill Open Space Preserve
Nestled near Los Gatos, St. Joseph's Hill Open Space Preserve offers picturesque vistas of the town. Spanning 273 acres atop a 1,250-foot hill, this reserve boasts classic wilderness charm. Popular among cyclists, hikers, equestrians, and dog enthusiasts, it's a bustling hub for outdoor activity. Explore its diverse array of trails and discover why it's such a beloved destination.
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St. Joseph's Hill Open Space Preserve serves as a scenic backdrop to the nearby town of Los Gato. It is a reserve that protects 273-acres of open space land on top of the 1,250-foot hill from which it takes its name. It is a classic wilderness area but it is busy with hikers, riders, equestrians and dog walkers. This is for a good reason as there is a wide variety of good trails in the area. When you are riding here, most of the trails are best done on a gravel bike or on decent touring tires.
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David Howells
January 9, 2024, Saint Josephs Hill summit
Serving as a scenic backdrop to the town of Los Gatos, St. Joseph's Hill is a 1,250-foot hill that looks down Los Gatos Creek valley and down over nearby Lexington Reservoir. It is also the summit of the Manzanita trail, which is a classic ride best done on a gravel bike.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the general dog policy in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve?
While many trails in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve generally do not permit dogs, the routes featured in this guide are specifically selected for their dog-friendly access. Always check specific trail signage, but you can enjoy the trails listed here with your canine companion.
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available in this guide?
This guide features 4 dog-friendly hiking trails, all rated as easy, making them suitable for a relaxed outing with your dog.
Are there any easy, short dog-friendly walks for a quick outing?
Yes, for a shorter, easy walk with your dog, consider the John Nicholas Trail to Lake Ranch Reservoir. It's just under 2.4 km (1.5 miles) and offers a pleasant, gentle experience.
Are there any dog-friendly loop trails in the area?
Yes, you can enjoy a dog-friendly loop trail like the Lake Ranch Reservoir – Lake Ranch Reservoir loop from El Sereno. This route covers about 6.1 km (3.8 miles) and is rated as easy.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the dog-friendly trails?
The dog-friendly trails in this guide are generally easy with moderate elevation changes. You'll find yourself walking through diverse landscapes, including redwood and Douglas fir forests, as well as oak woodlands, often alongside perennial creeks. The trails are predominantly shaded, offering a comfortable experience.
What natural features can I see along the dog-friendly routes?
While exploring the dog-friendly trails, you'll encounter the preserve's stunning natural beauty. Look out for towering Old Growth Redwood Trees and lush forests. The area is also home to diverse wildlife, including various bird species and even banana slugs in shaded areas.
What do other hikers say about the dog-friendly trails in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 150 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the beauty of the redwood forests, and the well-maintained paths, making them enjoyable for both humans and their dogs.
Are there any trails with good viewpoints that are dog-friendly?
For a dog-friendly hike that offers some elevation and potential views, consider the Saint Josephs Hill summit loop from Los Gatos. This 5.3 km (3.3 miles) easy trail includes an ascent of over 200 meters, which can lead to rewarding vistas of the surrounding area.
Is there parking available for dog-friendly trail access?
Yes, parking is available at various access points for the trails. However, during peak times, parking can be limited, so it's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
What is the best time of year to hike with my dog in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve?
The preserve's trails are mostly shaded, making them enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Even in warmer months, the shade provides relief, but always ensure you bring plenty of water for yourself and your dog.
Are there any historical sites to see on the dog-friendly trails?
While the preserve is rich in history, including remnants of a former millionaire's mansion and Alma College, the dog-friendly routes in this guide primarily focus on the natural beauty. However, you might encounter historical artifacts or reconstructed structures near the main parking areas or along some of the broader preserve trails.
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