The best walks and hikes around Gilroy

Yes, many parks in the Gilroy area welcome dogs on their trails. Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch County Park is a popular choice, offering miles of trails through rolling hills where you can hike with your canine companion. Always remember to keep your dog on a leash and check the specific park's regulations before you go.

Uvas Canyon County Park is the best destination for waterfall hikes. The park is famous for its Waterfall Loop Trail, a family-friendly one-mile path that showcases several cascades like Basin Falls and Black Rock Falls. For the best experience, visit during the late winter or early spring when water flow is at its peak.

Note: Due to its popularity, reservations are required for day use at Uvas Canyon.

For a gentle walk, the trails around Coyote Lake are a great option. The Coyote Lake loop from Gilroy is a relatively flat path that offers pleasant views across the water and surrounding hillsides, making it suitable for hikers of all ages.

For a truly strenuous and rewarding challenge, head to Henry W. Coe State Park. The park is known for its rugged terrain and significant elevation changes. The Calaveras & Mummy Mountain loop is a difficult, long-distance trek that will test your endurance with steep climbs and expansive views.

Spring is the ideal season for wildflower viewing around Gilroy. The hillsides in parks like Henry W. Coe State Park and Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch County Park come alive with vibrant displays of California poppies, blue lupine, and other native flowers.

Yes, Mount Madonna County Park is characterized by its magnificent redwood groves. You can find several trails that wind through these towering trees, offering a cool and shaded hiking experience. From the park's higher elevations, you can also get panoramic views of the Santa Clara Valley and Monterey Bay.

Henry W. Coe is the largest state park in northern California, offering a vast wilderness experience with over 250 miles of trails and ranch roads. The terrain is extremely rugged and hilly, making it a favorite for experienced hikers and backpackers. Hikes range from short loops to multi-day treks. Due to the hot, dry summers, always carry plenty of water.

Yes, for a paved pathway, consider visiting Christmas Hill Park. It features a paved loop that is well-suited for walking, strollers, and wheelchairs. It offers a more accessible outdoor experience compared to the rugged dirt trails found in the larger state and county parks.

Many trailheads have designated parking areas. The Sprig Day Use Area is a popular and highly-regarded starting point for trails heading into Mount Madonna County Park. Similarly, Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch County Park has multiple parking lots near its trailheads and the lake. Be aware that some county and state parks may charge an entrance or parking fee.

The trails around Gilroy are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the diversity of the landscape, from the lakeside paths at Coyote Lake to the shaded redwood groves in Mount Madonna County Park. The well-maintained trails and the beautiful views of the Santa Clara Valley are also frequently mentioned.

The rolling hills and ridgelines of Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch County Park are excellent for trail running. The Willow Springs Trail – Townsprings Trail loop from San Martin offers a moderate run with some elevation gain, providing a good workout with rewarding views.