The best walks and hikes in Los Trancos Open Space Preserve
4.7
(350)
4,637
hikers
12
hikes
Hikes in Los Trancos Open Space Preserve are characterized by rolling grasslands, oak woodlands, and shaded forests within the Santa Cruz Mountains. The preserve sits at an elevation of around 2,000 feet (610 m) and is notable for its geology, as the San Andreas Fault runs directly through it. The trail network provides access to both open meadows and dense tree cover.
Best hiking trails in Los Trancos Open Space Preserve
- The most popular hiking route is the Franciscan Loop…
Last updated: May 12, 2026
8
hikers
4.40km
01:20
220m
40m
Embark on an easy hike along the Black Mountain via Old Ranch, Bella Vista and Canyon Trail, a 2.7-mile (4.4 km) route that guides you through varied landscapes. You'll ascend…
1
hikers
9.35km
02:43
250m
250m
Embark on the Stevens Creek Nature Trail, Horseshoe Lake, and Lower White Oak Loop for a refreshing hike through diverse landscapes. This moderate route covers 5.8 miles (9.4 km) with…
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4.0
(1)
4
hikers
2.32km
00:40
60m
60m
Explore the San Andreas Fault Trail, an easy 1.4-mile hike in Los Trancos Open Space Preserve with interpretive stations and scenic views.
4.0
(2)
62
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
14
hikers
10.9km
03:01
190m
190m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Black Mountain, situated on Monte Bello Ridge, is a popular destination for hikers and mountain bikers. With an elevation of 2,812 feet, it's easy to understand why. From the summit, the views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and Silicon Valley are breathtaking.
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A small hike/bike-in campground with a vault toilet and (non-portable) water. You can oversee the lights of Bay Area at night and wake up above the cloud in the morning. You have to get a permit ($2) and the park rangers come and check the permit in the evening.
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The San Andreas Fault is one of the world's longest earthquake fault lines, it runs down the middle of the nature preserve. There are nine stations in the area that have educational information about the land around the fault line. This area also has nice views to Loma Prieta.
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This pond rests atop the San Andreas Fault, causing an indentation that later filled up from an underground spring. Unfortunately, the water isn't easily visible due to the overgrowth of cattails in the area. Nonetheless, it remains a beautiful natural spot worth the effort to explore.
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Standing at 2,800 feet, this mountain provides stunning views of the Monte Bello Open Space Preserve. Accessible from five different parks, reaching this summit allows you to add variety to your route.
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This beautiful small lake is a picturesque, quiet, tranquil spot with blue-eyed grass surrounding the shoreline in early spring. It is a great spot to bring a picnic basket, sit and enjoy the peaceful setting while listening to the birds in the trees.
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These wooden posts are markings along the San Andreas Fault Line.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I see the San Andreas Fault?
The preserve is famous for the San Andreas Fault, which runs directly through it. The best way to experience this is on the 1.5-mile self-guided San Andreas Fault Trail. Along this path, you'll find interpretive stations explaining the geology, a replicated fence showing the ground's movement from the 1906 earthquake, and markers indicating the fault line's path.
Are dogs allowed in Los Trancos Open Space Preserve?
No, dogs are not permitted in Los Trancos Open Space Preserve. This rule is in place to protect the area's wildlife and sensitive habitats.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes?
Yes, the preserve is well-suited for families. The main San Andreas Fault Trail is a relatively flat and educational 1.5-mile loop. For a slightly longer but still gentle walk, consider the Franciscan Loop Trail, which is a 1.4-mile (2.3 km) path through pleasant woodlands.
What are the parking and entrance fees?
There are no fees for parking or entering Los Trancos Open Space Preserve. Parking is available in a lot off Page Mill Road, but it can fill up, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
Which trail offers the best views?
For expansive views, head to the vista point near the start of the San Andreas Fault Trail. On a clear day, you can see south towards Monte Bello Open Space Preserve and Black Mountain. For a longer hike that includes varied scenery, the Hiking loop from Los Trancos Open Space Preserve combines several trails and offers a mix of open grasslands and forested sections.
What is the best time of year to hike in the preserve?
Hiking is enjoyable year-round. Spring is particularly beautiful, with meadows full of wildflowers like California poppies and paintbrush. Autumn offers a different kind of color with orange-red maples and yellow hazelnut trees. The preserve's 2,000-foot elevation provides cooler air, making it a pleasant escape during warmer months.
Are there any waterfalls in Los Trancos?
No, there are no significant waterfalls within Los Trancos Open Space Preserve. The trails focus more on the unique geology of the fault line, oak woodlands, and rolling grasslands. The Lost Creek Loop trail follows a creek bed, but it does not feature a waterfall.
How many hiking trails are in the preserve?
There are about 5 miles of official trails within the preserve, which can be combined in various ways. Komoot features over 10 curated routes, ranging from short interpretive walks to more challenging loops that connect to adjacent preserves.
What do other hikers think of the trails?
The trails in Los Trancos Open Space Preserve are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the well-maintained paths, the unique educational aspect of the San Andreas Fault Trail, and the beautiful views from the open meadows.
What do the yellow and white markers on the trail posts mean?
The posts with yellow and white lines are part of the self-guided San Andreas Fault Trail. They are placed to help you visualize the exact location of the main fault and its smaller, associated fault lines as you walk through the preserve.
Is there a more challenging hike available?
For a more strenuous hike, you can combine the preserve's trails with those in the adjacent Monte Bello Open Space Preserve. The Black Mountain loop from La Honda is a moderate 5.6-mile (9.0 km) route that offers more significant elevation gain and extends your exploration of the Santa Cruz Mountains.
Most popular routes in Los Trancos Open Space Preserve
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