Upper Penitencia Creek – Inspiration Point loop from Great Mall/Main

Bike touring routes & trails

Upper Penitencia Creek – Inspiration Point loop from Great Mall/Main

Moderate

3.4

(29)

riders

Upper Penitencia Creek – Inspiration Point loop from Great Mall/Main

02:15

35.3km

280m

Cycling

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: August 12, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Train Station

Get Directions

13.3 km

Alum Rock Park

Highlight • Rest Area

Alum Rock Park is open 8am to a half-hour after sunset. This 720 acre park is home to a whole host of outdoor activities including running, hiking, equestrian sports, and …

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14.3 km

Start of the climb to Eagle Rock

Highlight • Climb

14.8 km

You can find free parking and restrooms by the side of the creek. From here you have the option of many different hilly but nontechnical trails up to Eagle Rock, Inspiration Point, Boccardo, or along the creek side.

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14.8 km

Alum Rock — Upper Penitencia Creek Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

Upper Penitencia Creek Trail runs through Alum Rock Park and connects to many of the area's trails. The trail itself is an easy gravel ride for beginners and kids, but many of the adjoining trails are more challenging.

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16.7 km

Amazing stone bridge

Highlight • Bridge

It's really amazing that this stone bridge is still here. I understand it was originally built to easily get pack horses across the creek — and of course the people with them, too.

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17.8 km

Inspiration Point

Highlight • Viewpoint

Inspiration Point in Alum Rock Park offers stunning views of San Jose and the Bay and is surrounded by mature native trees and shrubs. Since 2011, volunteers have been working …

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