The best walks and hikes around South San Jose Hills
4.8
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244
hikers
27
hikes
Hiking around South San Jose Hills is characterized by rolling hills, diverse ecosystems, and panoramic views. The region features oak woodlands, chaparral, and grasslands, providing varied natural environments for exploration. Hikers can find trails leading through canyons and offering vistas of Los Angeles County, the Diablo Mountain Range, and the Santa Clara and Almaden Valleys. Natural streams and ponds also contribute to the area's landscape.
Best hiking trails around South San Jose Hills
- The most popular hiking route is Schabarum Trail, a 4.3 miles (7.0 km) trail that takes 2 hours 1 minute to complete. This moderate route offers views across the landscape.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Schabarum, Purple Sage, and Powder Canyon Loop Trail, a moderate 4.5 miles (7.3 km) path. This trail features diverse terrain and scenic views.
- Local hikers also love the Magnolia Trail to Buzzard Peak, a 2.1 miles (3.4 km) trail leading through varied terrain, often completed in about 1 hour 3 minutes.
- Hiking around South San Jose Hills is defined by rolling hills, oak woodlands, and canyons. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy walks to moderate climbs.
- The routes in South San Jose Hills are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 6 reviews. More than 160 hikers have used komoot to explore South San Jose Hills's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
5.0
(1)
16
hikers
6.98km
02:01
170m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
7.29km
02:12
240m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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21.8km
06:31
660m
700m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.46km
01:09
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.44km
00:55
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The admission to the park is free, but parking is USD 7 if you don't find a spot on Azusa Ave. From Mid to end of March one can enjoy the cherry blossom along the lower main path. It is worth to go counter clockwise, so one get a nice overview and reach the cherry trees from south. The best time is two hours before sunset, hence the sun is shining through the blossoms.
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This area offers almost 4,000 acres of well-maintained trails that cater to hikers, runners, and bikers. Throughout, you'll be able to enjoy views of the rolling hills in the area.
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Named after the Workman family, this point is the highest in the western hills, and your legs can feel it after reaching this point. It offers stunning panoramic views of the hills of the Puente Hills Preserve.
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Conquer the challenge of Workman Hill in Puente Hills Preserve. The singletrack rewards your hard work with panoramic views at the summit.
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Grab a view - but make sure to turn back. Trail is back to your right.
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busy trail on the weekend but the people are nice.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in South San Jose Hills?
There are over 15 hiking trails in the South San Jose Hills area, offering a variety of experiences from easy walks to more challenging moderate hikes. The komoot community has explored these routes over 175 times.
What kind of terrain and landscapes can I expect on the trails?
Hiking in South San Jose Hills features diverse landscapes including rolling hills, oak woodlands, chaparral, and grasslands. You'll find trails winding through canyons and offering panoramic views of the Los Angeles County, Diablo Mountain Range, and Santa Clara and Almaden Valleys. Natural streams and ponds also contribute to the scenic beauty.
Are there easy trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, South San Jose Hills offers 10 easy trails perfect for beginners or families. A great option is the Diamond Bar Loop Trail — Summitridge Park, which is 1.6 miles (2.5 km) long and features accessible paths suitable for various fitness levels.
What are some notable viewpoints or natural features to look out for?
The region is rich with viewpoints and natural features. You can find stunning vistas from areas like Turnbull Canyon, Coyote Peak in Santa Teresa County Park, and Rattlesnake Ridge Trail. The Puente Hills Preserve also offers trails with views of the Los Angeles Basin. During spring (March through June), parks like Santa Teresa County Park and Almaden Quicksilver County Park are known for spectacular wildflower displays.
Are there any circular or loop trails in the area?
Yes, many trails in South San Jose Hills are designed as loops. For example, the Hiking loop from Hacienda Heights is a moderate 5.2-mile (8.4 km) path, and the Diamond Bar Loop Trail loop from Steep Canyon Trailhead is an easy 3.2-mile (5.2 km) route through rolling hills.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in South San Jose Hills?
Spring, particularly from March through June, is an excellent time to hike in South San Jose Hills, as parks like Santa Teresa County Park showcase spectacular wildflower displays. The region generally offers pleasant hiking conditions for much of the year, but checking local weather forecasts is always recommended.
Are there any attractions or points of interest near the hiking trails?
Yes, there are several interesting attractions nearby. You can explore the scenic Turnbull Canyon, enjoy the natural beauty of Cherry Blossoms in Peter F. Schabarum Regional Park, or visit the Mt. San Antonio Wildlife Sanctuary. The Puente Hills Preserve itself is a significant natural area with extensive trails.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in South San Jose Hills?
The trails in South San Jose Hills are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, panoramic views, and the variety of trails suitable for different ability levels, from easy walks to moderate climbs.
Are there any moderate difficulty trails for a more challenging hike?
Yes, for those seeking a more challenging experience, there are 6 moderate trails available. The Whittier Hill – Puma Trail loop from Hillgrove is a good option, covering 5.4 miles (8.7 km) with varied elevation, offering amazing views over the hills and wildland preserves.
How long do hikes typically take in South San Jose Hills?
Hike durations vary depending on the trail and your pace. Easy routes like the Diamond Bar Loop Trail — Summitridge Park can be completed in about 43 minutes, while moderate trails such as the Hiking loop from Hacienda Heights might take around 2 hours 30 minutes.
Are there options for less crowded hikes in the area?
While specific crowd levels can vary, exploring trails within larger parks like Almaden Quicksilver County Park or Santa Teresa County Park, especially on weekdays or during off-peak hours, can often lead to a more serene experience. These parks offer many miles of trails, allowing for dispersion.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while hiking?
The diverse ecosystems of South San Jose Hills, including oak woodlands and chaparral, provide habitats for various wildlife. Hikers might spot common birds, small mammals, and occasionally deer. Alum Rock Park, for instance, is known for opportunities for wildlife sightings.
Most popular attractions around South San Jose Hills
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