The best walks and hikes in Monte Bello Open Space Preserve
4.7
(460)
6,140
hikers
19
hikes
Hiking in Monte Bello Open Space Preserve offers diverse landscapes across 3,436 acres, encompassing the upper Stevens Creek watershed from Monte Bello Ridge to Skyline Ridge. The preserve features rolling grasslands, dense creekside forests, and various tree species including Douglas fir, live oak, and California bay. Elevations reach up to 2,800 feet at Black Mountain, providing expansive views. The terrain includes riparian corridors and areas shaped by the San Andreas Fault.
Best hiking trails in Monte Bello Open Space Preserve
- The most popular hiking route is Water Wheel Creek Trail to Black Mountain — Monte Bello Open Space Preserve, a 4.3 miles (6.9 km) trail that takes 2 hours 1 minute to complete. This moderate route leads to the prominent Black Mountain, offering panoramic vistas.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Black Mountain loop from La Honda, a moderate 5.6 miles (9.0 km) path. This trail provides a challenging ascent with rewarding views from the summit.
- Local hikers also love the Franciscan Loop Trail — Los Trancos Open Space Preserve, a 1.4 miles (2.3 km) trail leading through varied habitats, often completed in about 40 minutes.
- Hiking in Monte Bello Open Space Preserve is defined by rolling grasslands, dense forests, and prominent ridges like Black Mountain. The extensive trail network offers options for various ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging ascents.
- The routes in Monte Bello Open Space Preserve are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 170 reviews. More than 2500 hikers have used komoot to explore Monte Bello Open Space Preserve's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
8
hikers
4.40km
01:20
220m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
9.35km
02:43
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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2
hikers
24.1km
07:03
670m
670m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
4
hikers
2.32km
00:40
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
4
hikers
6.95km
02:01
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Monte Bello Open Space Preserve
Other adventures in Monte Bello Open Space Preserve
Tips from the Community
This trail offers more than just stunning scenery and challenging terrain. Nestled along the trail lies the remnant of a historic water wheel used for irrigation in the 19th century. Also, intriguing remnants of abandoned gold mines from the Gold Rush era dot the trail.
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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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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 trail passes through madrone and oak woods before emerging into grasslands peppered with very large old oak trees. The wooded areas on the route are a welcome relief on a hot day. The trail runs along Steven Creek and its tributaries, offering a lush forest floor ladened with wild rose, ferns and gooseberry under the California bay and big-leaf maple trees.
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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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This trail leads you through a valley lush with ferns and large trees. The sounds of the nearby creek, filled with moss-covered boulders and small waterfalls, offer a sense of tranquility. After passing through the green meadows, you will come across a small pond where you may see California Newts on the side of the path. Once you reach the ridge top, you will enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean, especially on a clear day.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of landscapes and natural features can I expect to see in Monte Bello Open Space Preserve?
Monte Bello Open Space Preserve offers a rich variety of landscapes, including rolling grasslands, dense creekside forests, and diverse tree species like Douglas fir, live oak, and California bay. You'll also find an excellent riparian corridor and areas shaped by the San Andreas Fault, such as a sag pond along the Canyon Trail. The preserve encompasses the upper Stevens Creek watershed, providing varied terrain for exploration.
Are there any trails suitable for families or those looking for an easier hike?
Yes, Monte Bello Open Space Preserve has several easy trails. For a shorter, accessible option, consider the Franciscan Loop Trail — Los Trancos Open Space Preserve, which is about 2.3 km. Another easy choice is the Hiking loop from Los Trancos Open Space Preserve, spanning approximately 5.4 km. The Stevens Creek Nature Trail also features an easy-access segment to a vista point, suitable for various physical abilities.
What are the best viewpoints or landmarks to look out for?
The preserve is known for its spectacular vistas. From Black Mountain, a popular destination at 2,800 feet, you can enjoy panoramic views extending to San Francisco, Silicon Valley, the Pacific Ocean, and Mount Diablo on clear days. Other vantage points offer views of Santa Clara Valley and Mount Hamilton. The Stevens Creek Nature Trail also provides dramatic views down Stevens Creek Canyon to Mount Umunhum and Loma Prieta.
Can I bring my dog on the trails in Monte Bello Open Space Preserve?
The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, which manages Monte Bello, generally has specific rules regarding dogs. While some trails may allow dogs on leash, it's always best to check the official Midpeninsula website or signage at the trailhead for the most current regulations to ensure a pleasant and compliant visit with your pet.
What is the best time of year to visit Monte Bello Open Space Preserve?
Monte Bello offers seasonal beauty throughout the year. Spring brings vibrant wildflower displays, particularly in the grasslands. After fall and winter rains, the preserve offers striking clear views, and Stevens Creek becomes a 'roaring stream.' Late summer and autumn feature colorful foliage. While summers can be warm, the diverse ecosystems provide shaded areas. Each season offers a unique experience.
Are there any circular hiking routes available?
Yes, the preserve offers several loop options. A challenging circular route is the Ridge Trail, Peters Creek & Canyon Trail loop — Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve, which is a difficult 24.1 km hike. For a moderate option, consider the Black Mountain loop from La Honda, covering 9.0 km. The Stevens Creek Nature Trail is also a self-guided 3-mile loop.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter during my hike?
Monte Bello Open Space Preserve is rich in wildlife. You might spot large mammals such as coyotes, bobcats, deer, and badgers. Mountain lions are also present, though less commonly seen. Western fence lizards are frequently observed in the grasslands. The preserve's diverse ecosystems support a wide array of species.
How many hiking trails are there in Monte Bello Open Space Preserve?
There are nearly 20 hiking routes available in Monte Bello Open Space Preserve, catering to various difficulty levels. This includes 8 easy, 5 moderate, and 4 difficult trails, ensuring options for most hikers.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
Yes, parking is available at various trailheads within and around Monte Bello Open Space Preserve. Popular access points often have designated parking lots. It is advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up quickly.
What do other hikers enjoy most about Monte Bello Open Space Preserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 170 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from rolling grasslands to dense forests, and the rewarding panoramic views from prominent points like Black Mountain. The extensive and well-maintained trail network is also frequently highlighted.
Are there any multi-day hiking or camping opportunities?
Monte Bello Open Space Preserve offers the unique opportunity for overnight stays at the Black Mountain Backpack Camp. This is the only campsite within the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District. A permit is required for overnight stays, making multi-day hikes from the Santa Clara Valley to the coast a possibility for those who plan ahead.
Does the preserve connect to other open space areas?
Yes, Monte Bello Open Space Preserve connects with other open space preserves, including Skyline Ridge, Los Trancos, and Rancho San Antonio. These connections allow for numerous long hike combinations, expanding your exploration options beyond the immediate boundaries of Monte Bello.
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