The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Calero County Park

Calero County Park offers a wide selection of dog-friendly trails. You'll find over 40 routes suitable for hiking with your canine companion, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging treks.

Dogs are welcome on many trails in Calero County Park, but they must always be kept on a leash. It's important to respect wildlife and other park visitors by keeping your dog under control and cleaning up after them. While some trails are closed to cyclists and dog walkers, many are open, offering a sense of solitude.

The spring months (March, April, and May) are highly recommended for hiking with your dog in Calero County Park. During this time, the park showcases a vibrant display of native plants and wildflowers, and the weather is generally more comfortable. Many sections of the trails are open and exposed, so spring offers a pleasant balance before the summer heat.

Yes, there are several easy dog-friendly options. For a relaxed walk, consider routes that explore the lower elevations or areas around Los Cerritos Pond. While specific 'easy' routes are not detailed here, the park has 7 easy-rated trails in total that are generally suitable for dogs.

Yes, Calero County Park features several loop trails that are great for dogs. The Bald Peaks Loop Trail and the Bald Peaks Loop are popular moderate options that take you through open grasslands and oak forests, offering ascents into the park's higher elevations.

The terrain in Calero County Park is diverse, featuring rolling grasslands and shaded oak woodlands. You'll encounter trails ranging from less inclined paths, like parts of the Figueroa Trail, to challenging, steep climbs. The unique serpentine soil supports a variety of native plants, especially beautiful in spring.

Many trails offer panoramic vistas of southern Santa Clara County, the surrounding Santa Cruz Mountain Range, Mount Hamilton, and Mount Umunhum. You can also enjoy the tranquil Calero Reservoir and Los Cerritos Pond. The Lisa Killough Trail, for instance, leads to Lisa's Lookout, providing beautiful views of the mountains and reservoir.

For experienced hikers looking for a longer adventure with their dog, consider routes like the Rancho Canada del Oro and Calero Park Loop. This difficult route covers over 26 km and features significant elevation changes, offering a challenging and rewarding experience.

Calero County Park is home to a variety of wildlife. You might spot ducks, grebes, hawks, vultures, gulls, deer, fox, and coyote. Birdwatchers can look out for species like Golden Eagles, Rock Wrens, Lark Sparrows, and Rufous-crowned Sparrows. Remember to keep your dog leashed to protect both your pet and the local wildlife.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars. Reviewers often praise the extensive network of trails, the diverse landscapes of rolling grasslands and oak woodlands, and the sense of solitude found on many paths. The scenic views of the reservoir and surrounding mountains are also frequently highlighted.

While most trails are accessible, small dogs might prefer routes with less steep elevation gain and more shade. The areas around Los Cerritos Pond and sections of the Oak Cove Trail, which winds along the pond and through open grassland, could be good choices for a more manageable walk for smaller companions.