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ACTIVITIES

DISTANCE (ONE WAY)

8.2 miles one-way (plus 1.4 mile access trail from Coyote Dam Trailhead); car shuttle possible

DIRECTIONS

From:  Coyote Dam Trailhead

To:  Mendoza Ranch Trailhead

LAND MANAGER WEBSITE

https://parks.santaclaracounty.gov/locations/coyote-lake-harvey-bear-ranch-county-park

MORE DETAILS

Fees are collected for vehicles and boat launching. No fee charged at the Mendoza Ranch or Harvey Bear Entrance. Dogs allowed on leash.

After a short access trail from Coyote Dam, this section climbs the Ojo de Agua Trail before continuing south on a relatively level route high in the hills. Enjoy sweeping views of Coyote Lake, the surrounding foothills, Santa Clara Valley, and the Coast Range. This hike or ride pairs well with a picnic or camping at nearby Coyote Lake.

You can also access this route from the Harvey Bear Ranch Entrance or the Mendoza Ranch Entrance, offering many options to create your own loops with other park trails. The trail is mostly exposed, so plan your visit during cooler weather or earlier in the day.

This trail description is excerpted from the 2019 Guidebook. For details on all trails, trailheads and more buy the book from Wilderness Press.

For more resources to plan your trip, visit our Trail Tools page.