The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Lexington Reservoir County Park
4.6
(127)
2,118
hikers
52
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Lexington Reservoir County Park are situated within the Santa Cruz Mountains, encompassing a 900-acre park centered around a 338-acre man-made reservoir. The terrain features rolling hills with mixed elevation, offering a variety of landscapes from reservoir-side paths to chaparral-covered hills and shaded oak woodlands. Hikers can explore diverse habitats including redwood forests, chaparral, and grasslands, often providing scenic viewpoints of the reservoir and the broader Silicon Valley area.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Lexington…
Last updated: May 14, 2026
4.5
(12)
74
hikers
5.31km
01:36
180m
180m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
101
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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12
hikers
4.41km
01:22
170m
170m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A scenic stop just off the winding roads of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Lexington Reservoir County Park is a great spot to catch your breath and enjoy the view. The smooth pavement along Alma Bridge Road makes it a popular stretch for cyclists, with rolling terrain and minimal traffic. There's parking, restrooms, and shaded areas if you need a break. From here, you can loop toward Los Gatos or push deeper into the climbs of Highway 17 and Old Santa Cruz Highway.
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An excellent spot to take a break and enjoy the full breath of Lexington Reservoir. There is a Plaque dedicated to deputy Douglas B. Miller, who was fatally wounded while performing his duties.
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From the top of the dam you get splendid views out across Lexington Reservoir. To the north you overlook the winding end of the Los Gatos Creek Trail, which connects to the Jones Trail across from the restroom just up the road. The dam itself was constructed in 1952 and stands at nearly 200 feet tall.
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Nestled near Los Gatos, St. Joseph's Hill Open Space Preserve offers picturesque vistas of the town. Spanning 273 acres atop a 1,250-foot hill, this reserve boasts classic wilderness charm. Popular among cyclists, hikers, equestrians, and dog enthusiasts, it's a bustling hub for outdoor activity. Explore its diverse array of trails and discover why it's such a beloved destination.
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Ascending just a few hundred feet along Priestrock Trail toward Sierra Azul Open Space reveals expansive vistas overlooking the tranquil, turquoise-blue waters of Lexington Reservoir.
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St. Joseph's Hill Open Space Preserve serves as a scenic backdrop to the nearby town of Los Gato. It is a reserve that protects 273-acres of open space land on top of the 1,250-foot hill from which it takes its name. It is a classic wilderness area but it is busy with hikers, riders, equestrians and dog walkers. This is for a good reason as there is a wide variety of good trails in the area. When you are riding here, most of the trails are best done on a gravel bike or on decent touring tires.
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Serving as a scenic backdrop to the town of Los Gatos, St. Joseph's Hill is a 1,250-foot hill that looks down Los Gatos Creek valley and down over nearby Lexington Reservoir. It is also the summit of the Manzanita trail, which is a classic ride best done on a gravel bike.
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Get an elevated view of the 338 acre man-made Lexington Reservoir
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there in Lexington Reservoir County Park?
Lexington Reservoir County Park offers a wide selection of trails suitable for families. You'll find over 50 routes, with 29 of them specifically rated as easy, making them perfect for a family outing.
What are some easy, family-friendly loop trails in the park?
For an enjoyable family loop, consider the Manzanita and Novitiate Loop Trail, which is just over 5 km long with moderate elevation changes. Another great option is the Flume Trail loop from Lexington Reservoir County Park, a 4.4 km easy hike through shaded woodlands.
Are there any stroller-friendly paths in Lexington Reservoir County Park?
While many trails feature natural surfaces and some elevation, sections of the Los Gatos Creek Trail, which begins at the dam, are partially paved and generally flatter, making them more accessible for strollers. Always check current trail conditions for the best experience.
What interesting sights can families discover along the trails?
Families can enjoy views of the expansive Lexington Reservoir and the impressive James J. Lenihan Dam. When water levels are low, you might even spot remnants of the submerged towns of Lexington and Alma. The park's diverse habitats also offer opportunities to see local wildlife and varied plant life.
What is the best time of year to visit Lexington Reservoir County Park with children?
Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant hiking conditions with milder temperatures, making them ideal for families. Spring brings wildflowers, while fall showcases beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm, so early mornings are recommended, and winter can be wet, though trails remain open.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome in Lexington Reservoir County Park, but they must be kept on a leash. Always remember to clean up after your pet to keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.
Where can we park when visiting the park?
Lexington Reservoir County Park offers several parking areas, including trailheads that provide access to various parts of the park and adjacent open spaces. Specific parking information for individual routes can often be found on the respective tour pages, such as for the James J. Lenihan Dam – Lexington Reservoir Overlook loop.
Are there restrooms or picnic areas available?
Yes, the park provides facilities such as restrooms and picnic areas, particularly near the main entrances and popular trailheads. These amenities are helpful for families planning a day out.
What should we bring for a family hike in the park?
For a comfortable family hike, we recommend bringing plenty of water, snacks, sun protection (hats, sunscreen), and appropriate footwear. Depending on the season, layers of clothing are also advisable. Don't forget a camera to capture the scenic views!
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Lexington Reservoir County Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.56 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from reservoir-side paths to shaded oak woodlands, and the well-maintained trails that offer stunning views of the reservoir and surrounding Silicon Valley.
Are there any trails that connect to other parks or preserves?
Yes, Lexington Reservoir County Park serves as a gateway to adjacent open spaces like the Sierra Azul and St. Joseph's Hill Open Space Preserves. For example, the Priest Rock Trail – Sierra Azul Open Space loop offers a longer, moderate hike connecting into these broader networks.
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