But even when the flowers aren’t blooming, the open space preserve is still worth a visit. Why you should go: Walk miles out into the bay waters on this raised path outside of Silicon Valley. The North Bay has some of the best hikes near San Francisco. San Francisco Bay Area hikes along the Peninsula and in the South Bay. And if you get fed up, you are never far from a taxi. Additional Information: Open Space Authority. Their conservation work protects some of the Bay Area’s most precious open space, farms, and parkland. From treks that can last anything between 30 minutes, 3 days, to even 3 months! Montara Mountain’s North Peak summit is a fantastic sea to summit hike with Pacific Ocean views. This 4,700-acre preserve with its towering redwoods is guaranteed to make you feel small — in a good way. The wide, swooping North Rim Trail leaves from the Eagle Rock parking area and slowly works its way uphill toward the ridge. Your search for a South Bay forested escape has come to an end. Now, I know what some of you may be thinking — I, too, once thought hiking was not something I’d just casually do on a weekend. If you’re traveling, please check state and local COVID-19 guidelines before booking. Visitors will hike along the creek, around a few percolation ponds which teem with wildlife, and past the Wildlife Center of Silicon Valley in Berryessa Park. Additional Information: Mission Peak East Bay Parks. Why you should go: You don’t mind hiking alongside and sharing views with a friendly cow or two. There’s no better time to invest in a good pair of hiking sandals than in the sunny months when we all love to be outside. Whether it be in the mountains, on the beach, or along the city streets — he believes walking is the best way to experience the world. This route is a couple of miles longer, but it is far less traveled and easier on the knees. These five top Bay Area hikes offer cool shade, water views and even a winery. Escape the workday grind of Silicon Valley by taking a hike to Black Mountain’s peak. It also features numerous benches and restrooms along its length. Why you should go: Quintessential California hiking landscape with views of the Guadalupe Reservoir. One of the great things about living in the Bay Area is that we have a variety of microclimates nearby to escape to. Dogs: Leashed. The length may be too difficult for some people to endure, but the overall difficulty of this trail is moderate as it is well-traveled and gently graded. On crystal clear days you’ll be able to look down on far more than Silicon Valley. Tam in one 6.4-mile hike. Wildflowers and great views out over Morro Bay are the highlights of this hike. We’ve laid out the best hikes near San Jose below. Why you should go: Walk creekside through a suburban neighborhood on paved pathways. I unfortunately do not make it out to the East Bay often, and I am also very guilty of not documenting many redwood trails that I have hiked in the past. Amazing. The city is known as the heart of Silicon Valley, but it’s also home to some of the best hikes in the entire Bay Area. This trail is 3.4 miles one way—so enjoy the whole thing or turn around before you get too tired. Customized hike recommendations. With cooler temperatures and little threat of rain, hiking with your best friend offers a peaceful respite away from the hustle and bustle of the valley. 3. Visitors will likely spot plenty of waterfowl and other lake-loving creatures. Elevation Gain: 2135 feet. I've decided to compile a selection of the best day hikes that I've done. Seen in: California, California Hiking, Hike, Pacific Northwest. Berry Creek Falls is an absolute wonder of a waterfall, and the other lesser-known falls along the trail are nearly as beautiful. Cowell Ranch State Beach Explore a beautiful section of the California Coastal Trail just minutes from downtown Half Moon Bay. There is a ton of wildlife to see here as it is one of the last wetland refuges amidst the urban sprawl that is the Bay Area. Other notable redwood hikes in or near the Bay Area. Sanborn County Park, Santa Clara, South Bay. The inland marsh is home to a plethora of bird species, everything from migrating waterfowl to colorful orioles and hovering kites. Best hike for lazy people: Hong Kong Country Club to South Bay. This trail may appear intimidating at first glance from the parking lot, but it is easier than it looks. From towering sand dunes, to high-elevation juniper forests, to psychedelic badlands, Death Valley is a must-hike National Park for desert lovers. Whether you walk, jog, or bike, this trek makes for an excellent lunchtime or end-of-the-workday outdoor workout that’s away from the noise of the city. It’s as simple as that. You’ll walk for miles on top of the water. Most of these trails are on the Peninsula or South Bay due to their proximity to where I live. However, for those hikes on this list that don’t include panoramic scenes of Lake Tahoe, they can offer memorable views of wildflowers, wildlife, and other natural wonders of … You can learn more about our editorial and affiliate policy, 9 Best Airbnbs & Cabin Rentals Near Crater Lake National Park, Oregon, Trail Guide: Waterton Canyon Trail, Colorado, 6 Best Trail-Ready Hiking Sandals for Women, 6 Best Hiking Trails in Wind River Range, Wyoming, 8 Easy Day Hikes in Olympic National Park, Washington, 17 Stunningly Secluded Cabin Rentals in California, 10 Stunning Hikes in Death Valley National Park. Check out some of the best hikes and nature walks in the Bay Area. Close to Castle Rock, a popular rock climbing destination. This trail is currently only open on weekends and holidays. If you ever feel like singing aloud, “The hills are aaliiiveee,” Russian Ridge’s the place for you. A quaint little gem that doesn’t see a ton of foot traffic, Coyote Hills Regional Park is an awesome marshland experience. 1. The Seven Springs Loop Trail passes through a variety of terrains and ecosystems as it winds around elaborate estates and small wineries. For an easy vista, hike less than a mile to Borel Hill to get a 360-degree view from the highest point in San Mateo County. The New Almaden Trail winds through a dense forest comprised primarily of oak and alder as it climbs its way to the heights of Almaden Quicksilver County Park. Sign up for our free email to join thousands of readers getting epic travel, hiking, camping and gear ideas every week. Longer weekend hikes into the Bay Area’s cradling hillscapes can revitalize both body and mind with their natural settings and stellar views. Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases from Amazon.com. Difficulty: Challenging. We’ve narrowed down five of our favorites. If you’re planning a trip to the South Bay from out of town, be sure to check out the best Airbnbs in San Jose. You’ll pass near a number of exquisite hillside homes and catch some awesome views of the East Bay below. The best Bay Area hikes for beginners. Hiking Recommendations. Additional Information: Coyote Hills Regional Park. This walk will be around 2.5 hours, depending on how busy it … Take your bff (best furry friend) to one of these dog friendly hiking trails! Though a popular trail, the length of Berry Creek Falls Loop keeps the path from feeling crowded. For those who want a less steep ascent, park at nearby Ohlone College where a different trail climbs to the peak from its northern flank. Why you should go: Diverse hillside landscapes and rural estates make this an interesting hike that’s flush with eye-candy. An abundance of rolling hills defines the landscape of Almaden Quicksilver County Park. Pro tip: treat yourself at one of the many bubble tea shops in neighboring Cupertino afterwards. Best For: A fun hike with the family. South Lake Tahoe hikes takes you around the shores of the cobalt-blue lake and bring you to tall mountain peaks, surrounded by pine trees and meadows dotted with wildflowers. Many of these hikes are less than 3 miles round trip, making them an ideal option if you’re short on time. Tam) is too big and beautiful to include one hike on the list. The Bayview Loop traverses most of the park. The nine-mile Purisima Creek & Whittemore Gulch Hike, with a 1,600 feet elevation, is not for the fainthearted. The trail has areas of flat path as well as steep climbing near the peak. 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