The best walks and hikes around Santa Clara
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Hikes around Santa Clara explore a varied landscape that includes river reserves, nature preserves, and rolling hills. The region's terrain offers a mix of flat, accessible paths along creeks and more challenging routes with moderate elevation gain through canyons and open spaces. This network of trails provides options for different fitness levels, from family-friendly hikes to longer, more demanding loops.
Best hiking trails around Santa Clara
- The most popular hiking route is Cholla to Tempi'po'op trail — Santa Clara River Reserve, a 6.0 mile (9.7 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 40 minutes to complete. This moderate route follows paths within the Santa Clara River Reserve.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Tava'atsi Trail — Santa Clara River Reserve, an easy 2.9 mile (4.6 km) path. It offers a shorter, more accessible option for exploring the reserve's landscape.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Johnson Canyon Trail loop — Red Cliffs Nature Preserve, a 4.7 mile (7.5 km) trail leading through the preserve, often completed in about 2 hours 5 minutes.
- Hiking around Santa Clara is defined by riverside trails, rugged canyons, and rolling hills. The trail network provides a range of options suitable for various ability levels, from easy walks to moderate hikes.
- The routes in Santa Clara are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 80 reviews. More than 1000 hikers have used komoot to explore Santa Clara's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
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9.49km
02:40
180m
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Embark on a moderate hike along the Scout Cave Trail, a 5.9-mile (9.5 km) route that guides you through a diverse desert landscape. You will gain 605 feet (184 metres) in elevation, with the journey typically taking around 2 hours and 40 minutes to complete. The path winds past striking Navajo Sandstone formations, ancient lava flow fields, and dry stream beds, offering a unique visual experience as you progress.
When planning your visit, be aware that the trail offers minimal shade, so prepare for full sun exposure for most of your hike. The best times to experience this route are during spring, fall, or winter, as summer temperatures can be quite high. Dogs are welcome to join you, provided they remain on a 6-foot leash throughout the adventure.
This trail is a highlight within the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, known for its vibrant desert flora, especially beautiful in spring. The route culminates at a natural rock formation that provides expansive panoramic views of the Ivins and St. George valley, making it a rewarding destination for your efforts.
2.84km
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60m
Hike the easy Halfway Wash Trail, a 1.8-mile route through desert scenery and a vegetated wash in Utah's Red Cliffs National Conservation Ar
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4
hikers
9.67km
02:42
190m
190m
Hike the moderate 6.0 miles (9.7 km) Tempi'po'op and Cholla Trail Loop in Utah, featuring desert views and ancient petroglyphs.
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4.61km
01:15
70m
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Hike the easy 2.9-mile Tava'atsi and Tempi'po'op Trail Loop to discover ancient petroglyphs and panoramic views in Santa Clara River Reserve
7.54km
02:04
120m
110m
Hike the moderate 4.7-mile Scout Cave and Johnson Canyon Loop, featuring lava flows, sandstone cliffs, and the impressive Johnson Arch.
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Tips from the Community
A wide, walkable cave that requires just a small amount of scrambling to get into. From the mouth of the cave, you can see above St. George neighborhoods into the red rock landscape.
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From here and in various other portions of the trail, you can see Wittwer Canyon to the southwest.
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Well preserved petroglyphs on rocks that are visible directly beside the trail.
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This cave is much easier to access by walking, so I would recommend hopping off your bike to get up there and enjoy a beautiful view of the surrounding landscapes.
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These Petroglyphs mostly show representations of humans and animals. According to the City of Saint George, some might even be very old maps of surrounding trails.
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A wide, walkable cave that requires just a small amount of scrambling to get into. From the mouth of the cave, you can see above St. George neighborhoods into the red rock landscape.
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A segment of the trail that goes through a canyon with tall rock walls of red sandstone on each side.
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From here and in various other portions of the trail, you can see Wittwer Canyon to the southwest.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any dog-friendly hiking trails in Santa Clara County?
Yes, many trails in the area welcome dogs on a leash. For example, Fremont Older Open Space Preserve is a popular choice among dog owners, offering hilly trails and scenic views where leashed dogs are allowed. Always check the specific park regulations before you go, as rules can vary.
What are some good family-friendly hikes near Santa Clara?
For an easy and educational outing, the trail to Deer Hollow Farm within Rancho San Antonio County Park is a fantastic option for families. The path is relatively flat, and the working farm is a highlight for children. Another great spot is the Ulistac Natural Area, which offers gentle, flat trails perfect for a relaxed family walk.
I'm looking for a challenging hike with significant elevation gain. Any suggestions?
If you're seeking a strenuous workout with a rewarding view, the Toe Trail — Red Cliffs Desert Preserve is a great option. This moderate hike involves over 380 meters of elevation gain, taking you through rugged terrain. For another classic challenge, many local hikers head to Mission Peak Regional Preserve for its steep ascent and panoramic views of the Bay Area.
Are there any circular or loop trails available?
Yes, there are several excellent loop trails. The North Black Rocks – Scout's Cave loop from Red Mountain Resort is a moderate circular route that takes you through varied landscapes. Loop trails are a great way to experience a park without retracing your steps.
What is the terrain like at Stevens Creek County Park?
Stevens Creek County Park features a mix of multi-use trails that wind around a large reservoir. You can expect shaded paths, some open areas, and rolling hills. It's a popular spot for both hiking and disc golf, offering a variety of activities alongside its scenic trails.
Can I find hikes with waterfalls near Santa Clara?
While the immediate Santa Clara area is more known for its rolling hills and preserves, you can find waterfalls in nearby parks, especially after rainy periods. Castle Rock State Park is known for its seasonal waterfalls, which you can reach via trails like the Saratoga Gap Trail. These routes often involve more rugged terrain but offer beautiful scenery.
What are some popular places for hiking around Santa Clara?
Locals and visitors alike frequent several key parks. Rancho San Antonio County Park & Open Space Preserve is a favorite for its extensive trail network and the family-friendly Deer Hollow Farm. Castle Rock State Park is highly regarded for its unique sandstone formations and redwood groves. For expansive valley views, Sierra Vista Open Space Preserve is another top-rated destination.
Are there any easy hikes suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The Tava'atsi Trail — Santa Clara River Reserve is an excellent choice for beginners. It's a relatively short and flat path that allows you to enjoy the riverside scenery without a strenuous climb. The trails in the Ulistac Natural Area are also very flat and welcoming for those new to hiking.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Santa Clara?
The hiking routes around Santa Clara are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's well-maintained trails, the beautiful scenery of the nature preserves, and the variety of hikes available for all skill levels.
How many hiking trails are there around Santa Clara?
There are over 70 curated hiking routes to explore around Santa Clara on komoot. These range from easy, flat walks along rivers to more demanding hikes through canyons and up into the hills, ensuring there's a trail for every type of hiker.
Where can I find trails with redwood trees?
For a chance to hike among redwoods, head to Castle Rock State Park. This popular park features trails that wind through groves of regional trees, including beautiful redwoods, alongside its famous rock formations. It offers a different kind of scenery compared to the open hills of other nearby preserves.
What are the trail options in Alum Rock Park?
Alum Rock Park, California's oldest municipal park, offers about 13 miles of trails. You can find everything from level paths along Penitencia Creek to steep switchbacks that climb the canyon ridges. The park is known for its unique geology and the historic stone grottos from its past as a mineral spring resort.
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