6 New Ridge Trails in 2020

Despite 2020 being a poster year for uncertainty, the Ridge Trail has been very busy. We celebrated the dedication of over 8 miles – which includes 6 new distinct trail segments across 6 different counties. In fact, this is the most miles the Ridge Trail has gained in one year since 2015! Much of this work was possible thanks to the completion of our Ridge Trail Gap Analysis and Action Plan. By evaluating every remaining gap in the Ridge Trail, we reprioritized, identified strategies and laid out a path forward to complete the entire trail. You can learn more about the results of the Gap Analysis here.

The Ridge Trail Segments Added in 2020:

Suscol Headwaters Preserve, Napa County

1 mile adjoining Skyline Wilderness Park, offering stunning panoramic views. Get a sneak peek of this trail by watching our new video.

Info & Map here.

Almond Ranch, Contra Costa County

1.6 miles of new trail, closing a key gap between two existing trail segments on the Carquinez Strait Scenic Loop Trail.

Info & Map here.

Mission Peak North – Ohlone College lands, Alameda County

1.7 miles featuring a mix of steep hills and inspiring ridgeline vistas. Get a sneak peek of this trail by watching our new video.

Info & Map here.

Berryessa BART, Santa Clara County

0.7 miles connecting the new Berryessa BART station to Alum Rock Park, the Ridge Trail’s first BART connection.

Info & Map here.

El Corte de Madera Preserve, San Mateo County

1.8 miles of beautiful trail taking visitors through the shade of mixed evergreen and redwood forests.

Map and more information coming soon.

Twin Peaks and Stanyan Edge, San Francisco

1.4 miles re-route bringing the trail onto the ridge line of SF’s iconic Twin Peaks and along the redesigned entrance to Golden Gate Park.

Info & Map here.

Get a 3D, birds eye view of these new Ridge Trails with our new Google Earth experience, here.

Ridge Trail Segments with Accessible Features

These Ridge Trail segments have accessible features that may be appropriate for various levels of ability, including paved surfaces and flatter grades. Please refer to the trail information to decide if a specific segment will be a good experience for you. More information can be found on the Ridge Trail maps, land managers’ websites, and AllTrails pages (includes visitor reviews, elevation profiles, photos, and sometimes accessibility notes).

Find out more about Ridge Trail Accessibility here.

NORTH BAY

Cross Marin Trail, Samuel P. Taylor State Park

Photo: Ramon Vargas, All Trails

County: Marin

This wide shady path is paved from Platform Bridge down through Samuel P. Taylor Park, following along Lagunitas Creek and paralleling Sir Francis Drake Blvd. This out-and-back, roughly 2 mile trail segment also features lots of facilities, including parking, restrooms, picnic areas, and camping.

Ridge Trail Map

Samuel P. Taylor State Park Website

AllTrails Map

Petaluma Ring Trail

Photo: Wendy Calia via AllTrails

County: Sonoma

In Petaluma, the Ridge Trail ventures through many neighborhoods and parks, including downtown; it also follows both the Petaluma River and Lynch Creek for a stretch. From AllTrails: The trail surface is mostly paved but has some gravel sections and wooden bridges. The typical width is at least five feet wide. The estimated grade is typically mostly gentle at 5% grade or less except for a few moderately steep sections (8% or less) around the 1.7 and 3.1-mile marks. Equipment users may need assistance there, especially if using manual wheelchairs.

Ridge Trail Map

City of Petaluma Website

AllTrails Map

All Peoples Trail, Patwino Worrtla Kodoi Dihi Open Space Park

Photo: OpenRoad with Doug McConnell

County: Solano

This trail is not yet open to the public, but can be accessed with guided outings sometimes offered by Solano Land Trust. From their website: “The .6 mile “All Peoples Trail” meets outdoor accessibility standards and includes ADA picnic tables along its scenic and gentle loop through the park. When completed, the Visitor Center will feature ADA-compliant bathrooms. The native plant gardens inside the park can be accessed immediately from the parking lot.”

Get a preview of the All Peoples Trail on OpenRoad with Doug McConnell

Solano Land Trust Website

Vintage Valley Trail, Rockville Hills Regional Park

County: Solano

Begin your outing along this peaceful, well-kept trail at the southern end, at the intersection of Citadel and Abbey Drive, where there is street parking. This paved path winds along a greenbelt through a residential neighborhood for about 1 mile, until Emerald Bay Drive where the path increases in grade.

Ridge Trail Map

City of Fairfield Website

AllTrails Map

EAST BAY

Carquinez Bridge and Crockett

Photo: Christopher Sutterley, All Trails

County: Solano and Contra Costa

Take in wide views of the Carquinez Strait from atop the Carquinez Bridge along a smooth wide path. Then continue on into the town of Crockett, home to C&H sugar refinery and Alexander Park. Parking is available at either end of this 2.8 mile trail segment, so car shuttling is possible.

Ridge Trail Map

AllTrails Map (refer to accessibility notes in description)

Nimitz Way, Tilden and Wildcat Canyon Regional Parks

County: Contra Costa

Take in true 360० vistas of rolling East Bay hills and beyond, as well as the San Pablo Reservoir. As you travel along this sunny, open trail, you’ll see cows grazing and many people out walking dogs, riding bikes, and enjoying the view.

Ridge Trail Map

Tilden Regional Park Website

Wildcat Canyon Regional Park Website

AllTrails Map

SOUTH BAY

Penitencia Creek Trail

County: Santa Clara

See one of the Ridge Trail’s newest trails, connected to BART at Berryessa Station! This trail follows along Penitencia Creek, passing a new contemplative garden across from the BART station, as well as Penitencia Creek Gardens and the Wildlife Center of Silicon Valley. This trail is 3.9 miles one-way.

Ridge Trail Map

Santa Clara County Parks Website

AllTrails Map

Coyote Creek Parkway

Photo: Sue Kelso

County: Santa Clara

The Coyote Creek Parkway features a flat, wide paved path with a mix of sun and shade. Traveling along the creek you’ll pass ponds, parks and residential areas that makes for an enjoyable outing. Note, there is some trail grading at road/freeway under-crossings along this path. See the AllTrails map for more accessibility notes.

Ridge Trail Map (Coyote Creek Parkway North)

Ridge Trail Map (Coyote Creek Parkway South)

Santa Clara County Parks Website

AllTrails Map (Coyote Creek Parkway North)

AllTrails Map (Coyote Creek Parkway South)

Máyyan Wáayi Overlook Trail, Máyyan ‘Ooyákma – Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve

Photo (right): Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority

County: Santa Clara

This stunning preserve opened in 2023 and features a wide range of accessible experiences, viewing platforms, shade structures, and interpretive displays within the gateway staging area at any time during preserve hours.

From Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority:
Máyyan Wáayi (Coyote Valley) Overlook Trail
Distance: 1,000 feet | Average Grade: 5% Surface Type: Firm, Stabilized Decomposed Granite
Máyyan Wáayi, pronounced My-yahn Why-yee, is the Chochenyo translation for Coyote Valley. This gentle trail starts at the central gathering area, passes through an open meadow, and climbs to an overlook of Coyote Valley, nestled in a serpentine rock outcropping strewn with lichen-covered boulders. Rest at a shaded picnic area or bench with quiet views, listen for Western meadowlarks, or enjoy the wildflowers in the spring.

Ridge Trail Map

Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority Website

Mount Umunhum

Photo: Becca Russell via AllTrails

County: Santa Clara

From Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District: Mount Umunhum is one of the highest peaks in the Santa Cruz mountain range at 3,486 feet. At the Summit turnaround area, there are three (3) accessible parking spaces and a drop-off area. Visitors can enjoy the accessible pathway to the west Summit and ceremonial circle, the east Summit, Summit shelter and interpretive displays. Constructed using many ADA standards, the Summit walking paths are well suited to families with young children, the elderly and people with physical disabilities.

Ridge Trail Map

Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Website

AllTrails Map

PENINSULA

Horseshoe Lake, Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve

Photo: Pat Koren

County: San Mateo

Take a trip around this small but beautiful water feature in Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve. Much of the trail is shaded and you can see birds, dragonflies and wildflowers in the spring. There is parking and a restroom at the trailhead. The Ridge Trail intersects briefly by the lake, but the trail loop around is about 1.2 miles in length.

Ridge Trail Map

Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Website

AllTrails Map

Lifemark Road, Skylawn Memorial Park

Photo: Luana Espana

County: San Mateo

Skylawn Memorial Park is a peaceful retreat that features sweeping views of the surrounding hills and water. While this Ridge Trail segment is only 1.1 miles long, the views alone are worth the trip. Note: while completely paved, this path has some grade. Check the AllTrails map linked below for elevation profile and grade information.

Ridge Trail Map

Skylawn Memorial Park Website

AllTrails Map

SAN FRANCISCO

Lake Merced to Stern Grove

Photo Credit: Sue Kelso

County: San Francisco

With Lake Merced on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other, this trail has the potential to be sunny or foggy, but always beautiful. The lake is surrounded by marsh grasses and a line of cypresses that separate the lake from the TPC Harding Park Golf Course. There is parking, public restrooms, and a picnic area along this 4.1 mile trail.

Ridge Trail Map

San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department Website

AllTrails Map

Stanyan Street and Golden Gate Park

County: San Francisco

The entrance to Golden Gate Park along Stanyan Street at Haight Street has been upgraded with beautiful native, drought-resistant plants, plenty of grassy space for a picnic, and even a bocce court next to public restrooms. This little slice of the Ridge Trail makes for a beautiful day in the park in the middle of the City. Street parking is available along Stanyan Street.

Ridge Trail Map

San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department Website

AllTrails Map

Bikepacking Trip: Huddart Park to Presidio

Description: Travel along the spine of the Peninsula green belt and into San Francisco. This route requires special access to Fifield Cahill through the beautiful Crystal Springs water shed.

Vehicle Logistics: Check in with park ranger / attendant about parking overnight at Huddart Park. Overnight parking is not allowed at Presidio unless you have a camping permit at Rob Hill.

Water: Fountains can be found at Skyline College, Westlake Park near Merced Lake, and various other gas stations and stores through Pacifica and San Francisco.

Special Permit: You are required to schedule a docent to lead you through the Fifield Cahill section (Fifield Cahill Docent Information). Reach out to info@ridgetrail.org for help in setting up a docent.

Camp Options:

Rob Hill Campground in SF Presidio: Reservation only, group sites.

Huddart County Park: Group sites. Might be possible to camp overnight solo check with Ridge Trail staff to request special permission. info@ridgetrail.org

Half Moon Bay State Beach: First come first served hike and bike sites. This is a detour off of the Ridge Trail which will add more miles and elevation gain.

OuterSpatial Mobile Map: Bike Overnight: Huddart to Rob Hill

Total Miles / Elevation: 53 miles, 6562’ gain, 6133’ loss

Surfaces: Trail and Road. Not all road sections provide lanes or shoulders for bikes. Use at your own risk.

Day 1 Itinerary:

Section 1: Huddart – Fifield Cahill

Trail Maps: Purisima Creek Redwoods, Fifield Cahill

Camp Start: Huddart County Park, group sites. Might be possible to camp overnight solo check with Ridge Trail staff to request special permission. info@ridgetrail.org

Water: There is no water in this section. Fill up before you leave and take everything with you.

Section Note: You will travel on mostly road before arriving at the Fifield Cahill start at Skylawn Memorial Park. Be careful crossing Hwy 92. Travel at your own risk.

Section 2: Fifield Cahill – Lake Merced

Trail Maps: Fifield Cahill to Mussel Rock, Mussel Rock to Lake Merced

Water: Fountains can be found at Skyline College, Westlake Park near Merced Lake, and various other gas stations and stores through Pacifica.

Section 3: Lake Merced – Rob Hill Campground, Presidio

Trail Maps: Lake Merced to Stern Grove, Stern Grove to Presidio, Presidio to Rob Hill

Water: There are various water fountains and stores through San Francisco, the Presidio, and Golden Gate Park.

End Camp: Rob Hill Campground in SF Presidio, group sites.

Section Note: Rapley Ranch to Huddart is mostly on road, Hwy 35 and King Mountain Rd.

Day 2 Suggested Itinerary:

Continue North: Check out our itinerary and resources for The Presidio to Samuel P Taylor

Out and back: Ride back and camp at first come first served hike / bike in sites at Half Moon Bay State Beach

Bikepacking Trip: Sanborn Park to Huddart Park

Description: Ride and connect several parks through this gorgeous Skyline green belt along from the Santa Cruz mountain and into San Mateo County.

Vehicle Logistics: Check in with park ranger / attendant to park overnight at Sanborn Park and Huddart Park.

Water: Water fountains are located at the Castle Rock Kirkwood entrance, Alpine Lake near the Russian Ridge main parking lot, Alice’s Restaurant and at Huddart County Park.

Camp / Lodging Options:

Sanborn Santa Clara County Park: Walk in sites, reservation and first come first served.

Huddart County Park: Group sites. Might be possible to camp overnight solo check with Ridge Trail staff to request special permission. info@ridgetrail.org

Monte Bello Open Space: Primitive Trail Camp. Reservation required. This is a Detour off the main route.

Half Moon Bay State Beach: First come first served hike and bike sites. This is a detour off of the Ridge Trail which will add more miles and elevation gain.

OuterSpatial Mobile Map: Bike Overnight: Sanborn to Huddart

Total Miles / Elevation: 49 miles, 4625 gain, 5200’ loss

Surfaces: 22 miles of trail and 27 miles of road. Not all road sections provide lanes or shoulders for bikes. Use at your own risk.

Day 1 Itinerary:

Section 1: Sanborn Camp – Castle Rock

Trail Maps: Sanborn Park John Nicholas Trail, Sanborn to Castle Rock

Camp Start: Sanborn Camp. Walk in sites, reservation required.

Water: There is a water fountain at Castle Rock Kirkwood entrance.

Section 2: Castle Rock – Skyline Ridge

Trail Maps: Castle Rock to Saratoga Gap, Saratoga Gap to Skyline Ridge,

Water: There is no water in this section.

Section 3: Skyline Ridge – Huddart County Park

Trail Maps: Skyline Ridge to Rapley Ranch

Water: There is a water fountain at Alpine Lake just before the Russian Ridge main lot and at Alice’s Restaurant.

End Camp: Huddart County Park: Group sites. Might be possible to camp overnight solo check with Ridge Trail staff to request special permission. info@ridgetrail.org

Section Note: Rapley Ranch to Huddart is mostly on road, Hwy 35 and King Mountain Rd.

Day 2 Suggested Itinerary:

Continue North: Check out our itinerary and resources for Huddart Park to The Presidio.

Out and back: Ride back and camp and Monte Bello.

Bikepacking Trip: Presidio to Samuel P Taylor

Description:Explore this classic overnight route of the Ridge Trail which takes you over the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and through the sweeping views of the Marin Headlands.

Vehicle Logistics: Parking overnight in the Presidio is not allowed so you may need to be dropped off. There are plenty of public transportation options to get you close to the Presidio or Rob Hill Campground. You can park overnight at the Pantoll campground for a shorter trip.

Water: Carry a lot of water. The last water stop before Pantoll is at the Golden Gate Bridge North Vista Point. There is a fountain 1.5 miles off route at the Muir Woods National Monument main entrance just in case. There is no water between Pantoll and Samuel P Taylor.

Camping Options:

Rob Hill Campground in SF Presidio: Reservation only, group sites only.

Samuel P Taylor State Park: Reservation and first come hike & bike sites.

Mt. Tamalpais SP, Pantoll Campground: first come sites only.

Tennessee Valley, Haypress Campground: Reservation only.

OuterSpatial Mobile Map: Bike Overnight: Rob Hill to Samuel P Taylor

Trip route map and cue sheet: Download the PDF

Total Miles / Elevation: 43 miles, 5558’ gain, 5320’ loss

Surfaces: Trail and Road. Not all road sections provide lanes or shoulders for bikes. Use at your own risk.

Day 1 Itinerary:

Section 1: Rob Hill Camp – Tennessee Valley

Trail Maps: Rob Hill Camp to Marin Headlands, Golden Gate Bridge to Tennessee Valley

Camp Start: Rob Hill Campground in SF Presidio, Reservation Only, group Site

Water: Water fountains at the Golden Gate Bridge North Vista Point Lot.

Section Note: You will ride up Conzelman Rd. for 1 mile. There is very little shoulder, ride at your own risk.

Section 2: Tennessee Valley – Pantoll Campground

Trail Maps: Tennessee Valley to Shoreline Hwy, Shoreline Hwy to Pantoll Camp

Water: There is water 1.5 miles off route at Muir Woods National Monument main entrance and at Pantoll Campground.

Section 3: Pantoll Campground – Samuel P Taylor State Park

Trail Maps: Pantoll to Bolinas Fairfax Rd., Bolinas Ridge Trail to Samuel P Taylor

Water: There is no water along this section until Samuel P Taylor State Park.

End Camp: Samuel P Taylor State Park, Reservation and first come first served hike and bike sites.

Day 2 Suggested Itinerary:

Extend your adventure: Check out Don Nolan’s 12 day bike packing circumnavigation plan for help and ideas for a longer trip.

Out and back: Ride back and camp at first come first served hike / bike in sites at Mt. Tamalpais SP, Pantoll Campground.

Backpacking Trip: Hood Mountain to Sugarloaf

Description: Summit one of the hardest peaks in the area and connect two local favorite parks.

Vehicle Logistics: Drop off a vehicle at Sugar Loaf State Park or Hood Mountain Regional Park. You can setup this trip as a shuttle or out and back.

Water: Creek water might be available at Azalea Creek Camp. Be prepared to carry most of your water for the whole trip.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Hood Mountain Pythian Entrance – Azalea Camp

Mileage / Elevation: 6.3 miles / 1950’ gain

Maps: Hood Mountain

Camp: Azalea Camp. Primitive hike in site, reservation required, $20 per night.

Day 2: Azalea Creek Camp – Sugarloaf Camp

Mileage / Elevation: 8.7 miles / 1000’ gain

Maps: Sugarloaf Map, Hood Mountain Park Map

Camp: Sugarloaf Campground. Car camping sites, reservation and first come first served.

OuterSpatial Mobile Map: Coming Soon

Total: 15 miles, 2950’ elevation gain

Backpacking Trip: Presidio to Mt. Tamalpais

Description: This route exposes you to unmatched diversity with urban, coastal, grassland, and forest landscapes. Not to mention, the many iconic places and views you will hike through.

Vehicle Logistics: This trip can be a one-night shuttle in either direction or a three night out and back. Parking overnight in the Presidio is not allowed so you may need to be dropped off. $25 overnight parking fee at Pantoll.

Water: Carry all of your water for the trip. The last water stop before Pantoll is at the Golden Gate Bridge North Vista Point. There is a fountain 1.5 miles off route at the Muir Woods National Monument main entrance just in case. Pantoll has fountains and spigots.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Arguello Gate, Presidio – Haypress Camp, Tennessee Valley

Mileage / Elevation: 10 miles / 845’ gain

Maps: Arguello to Golden Gate Bridge, Bridge to Tennessee Valley

Camp: Haypress Camp: Primitive hike in site, reservation required, free

Day 2: Haypress Camp – Pantoll Campground

Mileage / Elevation: 9.2 miles / 2255’ gain

Maps: Tennessee Valley to Shoreline Hwy, Shoreline Hwy to Pantoll

Camp: Pantoll Camp: Hike in site, first come first served, $25 per night.

OuterSpatial Mobile Map: Coming Soon

Total: 19.2 miles / 3100’ elevation gain

Backpacking Trip: Tilden to Don Castro

Description: Dramatic views, redwood groves, and open grasslands await you on this adventure along to ridgeline of the East Bay.

Vehicle Logistics: No overnight parking at Tilden, arrange for a drop off. Drop off car overnight near Ridge Trail Park on Rancho Palomores Drive.

Permit Note: EBMUD lands require purchasing a permit for access. EBMUD permit link

Water: Non potable water at Sibley Camp. Water available at Golden Gate Steamers, Skyline Gate, and Redwood Gate. Limited water accessibility through Chabot to Cull Canyon.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Tilden, Inspiration Point – Sibley camp 6.8 miles

Mileage / Elevation: 6.8 miles / 1800’ gain

Maps: Tilden to Sibley

Camp: Sibley Camp. Primitive hike in site, reservation required, $5 per person.

Day 2: Sibley Camp – Two Rocks Camp

Mileage / Elevation: 15 miles / 1800’ gain

Maps: Skyline Gate to Bort Meadow, Chabot Regional Park

Camp: Chabot, Two Rocks Camp: Primitive hike in site, reservation required, $5 per person.

Day 3: Two Rocks Camp – Ridge Trail Park, Don Castro

Mileage / Elevation: 9 miles / 1200’ gain

Maps: Chabot to Cull Canyon

Total: 30.8 miles, 4800’ elevation gain

Backpacking Trip: Russian Ridge to Sanborn Park

Description: Hike along the ridge of the south bay while taking in the amazing views of the valley and Pacific Ocean.

Vehicle Logistics: There is no overnight parking at Russian Ridge so you will need to be dropped off. You may be able to arrange overnight parking at Monte Bello and start there to shorten the trip, check with info@openspace.org. Check in with park ranger / attendant to park overnight at Sanborn Park.

Water: Fountains or spigots are at Alpine Lake, Monte Bello Camp (non potable), Castle Rock Kirkwood Entrance, and Sanborn Camp.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Rapley Ranch, Russian Ridge – Monte Bello Camp

Mileage / Elevation: 7.3 miles / 1800’ gain

Maps: Rapley to Horseshoe Lake, Mid Pen South Skyline Map

Camp: Monte Bello Camp. Primitive hike in site, reservation required, $2 per night.

Day 2: Monte Bello Camp – Castle Rock Camp

Mileage / Elevation: 15 miles / 2000’ gain

Maps: Skyline to Saratoga Gap, Saratoga Gap to Castle Rock

Camp: Castle Rock Camp. Primitive hike in site, reservation required, $15 per night

Day 3: Castle Rock Camp – Sanborn Camp

Mileage / Elevation: 10 miles, 1000’ gain

Maps: John Nicholas Trail, Sanborn

Camp: Sanborn Camp. Hike in site, reservation required, $18 per night

OuterSpatial Mobile Map: Coming Soon

Total: 32.3 miles / 4800’ elevation gain

Three Day Basecamp: Santa Clara County

Overview: Overnight base camping is a great way to accomplish several sections of the Ridge Trail while exploring the surrounding county. This 3 day and 2 night itinerary gives you the best of Santa Clara County and Santa Cruz Mountain region. Most outings are set up as shuttle hikes and require one car parked at the end of each route.

Circumnavigating? Use the Trail Tracker to check off each section of the Ridge Trail you have completed.

Total Mileage: 28 miles

Camping / Lodging Suggestions:

- Los Gatos Garden Inn
  - Affordable and quaint hotel located near trailhead.
- Sanborn County Park
  - Short walk in campground and RV parking.

Day 1: Saratoga Gap to Skyline Ridge Open Space

Route Description: This beautiful hike takes you through moist evergreen forests, woodlands, and high grasslands along the crest of the Santa Cruz Mountains. You experience stunning coastal mountain views on this route through three open-space preserves and one county park.

Drive Notes: Start with a 30 minute scenic drive up Hwy 9 and Hwy 35 to drop off a car at Skyline Ridge Open Space. Drive back the way you came with your second car and park at the intersection parking lot for Saratoga Gap.

Start Location: Saratoga Gap trailhead parking

End Location: Skyline Ridge Open Space parking lot

Mileage: 8.1 miles (One Way)

Difficulty: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 858’

Map / info resources:

- Saratoga Gap to Skyline Map Link

- OuterSpatial (Mobile app) link
  - Must have OuterSpatial Mobile app for link to work

Day 2: Hicks Rd. to Lexington Reservoir, Sierra Azul

Route Description: Get ready for one of the hardest and rewarding sections of Ridge Trail in the South Bay. Pack a big lunch and lots of water on this often hot and exposed route. Start your adventure early to avoid the heat. This demanding hike rewards you with 360 degree views of the Santa Cruz mountains and valley.

Drive Notes: A short 10 minute drive from Los Gatos to drop off your car at Priest Rock trailhead and 30 minute drive up the slopes of Mt. Umunhum to the Woods trailhead to start your adventure.

Start Location: Woods trailhead, Hicks and Mt Umunhum Rd.

End Location: Priest Rock trailhead, Lexington Reservoir

Mileage: 11.7 miles (One Way)

Difficulty: Strenuous

Elevation Gain: 2677’

Map / info resources:

- Sierra Azul to Lexington Map link
- OuterSpatial (Mobile app) Sierra Azul to Lexington Link
  - Must have OuterSpatial Mobile app for link to work

Day 3: John Nicholas Trail, Sanborn County Park

Route Description: This is a popular trail and you will see why with single track going through lush redwoods and creeks while ascending up wooded hillsides with fantastic views. Other highlights include Lake Ranch and large sections of fascinating sandstone boulders.

Drive Notes: If you are camping at Sanborn this trailhead is quick to get to and even possible to hike to. From Los Gatos it’s a 20 minute drive to the end of Sanborn Rd. off Hwy 9. The trail can be done as an out and back or shuttle by parking a car at Sunnyvale Mountain lot.

Start Location: Lake Ranch Trailhead, Sanborn Rd.

End Location: Sunnyvale Mtn. Trailhead

Mileage: 8.0 miles out and back, 4.0 miles one way Sunnyvale Mtn.

Difficulty: Difficult

Elevation Gain: 1550’

Map / info resources:

- John Nicholas Trail Map Link
- OuterSpatial (Mobile app) John Nicholas Trail Link
  - Must have OuterSpatial Mobile app for link to work