Coyote Creek Trail
A long, paved urban trail in San Jose, perfect for biking, walking, and enjoying nature with shaded sections and wildlife sightings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pristine trail, solitude
Coyote Creek Trail
Best Time
Pristine trail, solitude
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A long, paved urban trail in San Jose, perfect for biking, walking, and enjoying nature with shaded sections and wildlife sightings.
"This trail is a beautiful, long, paved path with plenty of shade and opportunities for wildlife spotting."
🎯 Safety South of Hellyer Park
The trail is generally safe for solo exploration south of Hellyer Park.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Essential for hot days, especially during summer.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Paved Biking & Walking Path
San Jose to Morgan Hill
Enjoy a long, paved trail perfect for cycling and walking, with shaded sections and scenic views.
+1
Wildlife Spotting
Various sections
Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including wild pigs and bobcats, adding an element of surprise to your outdoor adventure. [^Reviews]
Sunset Views
Along the trail
Experience breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky, making for a beautiful and serene end to your day on the trail.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Safety & Best Sections
Weather & Wildlife Encounters
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Safety South of Hellyer Park
The trail is generally safe for solo exploration south of Hellyer Park.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Essential for hot days, especially during summer.
🚴♀️ Ideal for Biking
The paved path is perfect for a long bike ride, with some sections offering a true cycling adventure. +1
☀️ Avoid Midday Heat
The trail can get very hot; plan your visit for cooler parts of the day.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Safety South of Hellyer Park
The trail is generally safe for solo exploration south of Hellyer Park.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Essential for hot days, especially during summer.
🚴♀️ Ideal for Biking
The paved path is perfect for a long bike ride, with some sections offering a true cycling adventure. +1
☀️ Avoid Midday Heat
The trail can get very hot; plan your visit for cooler parts of the day.
⚠️ Watch for Flooding
After heavy rains, sections of the trail can become flooded.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Coyote Creek Trail for its tidy, shaded paths and extensive length, perfect for biking and walking. The accessibility and natural beauty, including wildlife sightings, are highlights. However, some note a desire for more benches and occasional issues with flooding after heavy rain.
"Tidy trail, shaded in places. Having more benches along the way would be an improvement. Near the trailhead on Silver Creek Valley Road, the creek is accessible under the overpass. There are some graffiti signs, but the area has been cleaned up very well. It looks clean and safe during my visit. Lulu had a great time."
Tri Huynh
"Nice easy trail. Starts at Tully library and ballpark and goes all the way to Morgan Hill. I think total is about 42 miles up and down, give or take. There is also a 2 mile loop Odette Morrow which can increase the distance by 2.5 miles. During last winter trail was flooded in many places. Now it's completely dry. Overall very beautiful trail. Just don't expect elevation!"
Mir Islam
"Loved the section of Coyote Creek trail we walked a couple of weeks ago. I was so surprised to see (and smell) a few eucalyptus trees! I haven’t smelled that since I was in Australia!"
Naomi Barclay
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Coyote Creek Trail has multiple access points. Popular trailheads include near Tully Library and Ballpark in San Jose, and it extends all the way to Morgan Hill. [^Reviews]
Parking is available at various trailheads, including near Silver Creek Valley Road and at Hellyer Park. [^Reviews]
While not explicitly detailed in the provided content, the trail's proximity to San Jose suggests potential public transport access to certain trailheads. Research local bus routes for specific access points.
The trail is described as wide and paved, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. [^Reviews]
For shorter walks, consider accessing the trail near the Tully Library and Ballpark or the Silver Creek Valley Road trailhead. [^Reviews]
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Coyote Creek Trail is a public park and trail system, and there is no entrance fee to access it.
As a public outdoor trail, Coyote Creek Trail is generally accessible from dawn to dusk. Specific park hours may apply to adjacent facilities like parking lots.
No, tickets are not required for Coyote Creek Trail as it is a public access area.
Generally, there are no specific entry restrictions, but it's always advisable to check local park regulations for any temporary closures or advisories, especially after heavy rain.
The trail is open year-round, but it can be subject to temporary closures or advisories due to flooding after significant rainfall.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The trail is predominantly paved and wide, making it suitable for walking, running, and cycling. Some sections may have natural surfaces or be subject to flooding. [^Reviews]
Yes, many sections of the trail are well-shaded by trees, offering a pleasant experience even on warmer days. [^Reviews]
Restroom availability can vary by trailhead. Facilities are typically found at larger access points like Hellyer Park.
Dogs are generally allowed on Coyote Creek Trail, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check local regulations for specific park rules.
You might encounter wild pigs, bobcats, various birds, and potentially snakes. [^Reviews]
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly on the trail itself. It's recommended to pack your own food and drinks or plan to eat before or after your visit in nearby San Jose or Morgan Hill.
Picnicking is a great option. Look for benches or open grassy areas, especially near trailheads or parks along the route. [^Reviews]
Restaurants are available in the surrounding areas of San Jose and Morgan Hill. Consider areas near the Tully Library or downtown Morgan Hill for dining options.
Water fountains are not consistently available along the entire trail. It's best to carry ample water with you.
San Jose offers a diverse culinary scene, including Mexican, Vietnamese, and Italian cuisine, as well as many farm-to-table options.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for scenic spots along the creek, shaded tree-lined paths, and areas with interesting wildlife. Sunset views are particularly photogenic. [^Reviews]
While generally safe, especially during daylight and in more populated sections, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings when taking photos alone.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons provide beautiful sunset colors. [^Reviews]
The creek itself, the shaded sections, and any wildlife sightings make for great photo opportunities. [^Reviews]
Drone usage is typically regulated in public parks and open spaces. Check with the Santa Clara County Parks Department or local authorities for specific drone regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider accessing the trail near parks with playgrounds or open spaces for a more complete family outing. While the trail is long, you can easily do shorter out-and-back segments to suit your children's energy levels. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are limited along the trail itself.
🚴♀️ Cyclists
Whether you're on a road bike, gravel bike, or mountain bike (for specific sections if applicable), the smooth surface is generally accommodating. Some sections are well-shaded, offering respite from the sun. Be aware of potential flooding after heavy rains and always yield to pedestrians.
🏃♀️ Runners
Safety is a consideration, with advice suggesting that sections south of Hellyer Park are generally safer for solo runners. Early mornings are recommended for fewer crowds and a more peaceful running experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trail System
+1Many users appreciate the shaded sections provided by mature trees, making it more comfortable during warmer months. The trail's width allows for easy passing between different users, and it's often described as well-maintained, though occasional flooding can occur after heavy rains. [^Reviews]
Beyond the main paved path, there are opportunities for urban exploring and enjoying moments of solitude, especially in the early morning. The trail also serves as a vital artery for local wildlife, with sightings of pigs and bobcats being reported.
Safety and Community Insights
The trail's condition and safety have been noted in reviews, with mentions of it being cleaned up and looking safe during visits. Graffiti has been observed, but the overall impression is one of a well-maintained public space. [^Reviews]
There's also a mention of the trail's use increasing after encampment removals, highlighting its role as a public space. Supporters cite improved access and safety, while service groups express concerns about displacement, indicating the trail's connection to broader community issues.
Wildlife Encounters and Natural Beauty
Beyond the larger mammals, the trail is also home to various birds, and there's a possibility of encountering snakes, especially during warmer months. The natural beauty is enhanced by the presence of eucalyptus trees, which evoke memories of distant landscapes for some visitors. [^Reviews]
The creek itself is a focal point, and while it can flood, it also contributes to the natural scenery. The trail provides opportunities to enjoy the sounds of nature, like birds chirping, interspersed with the distant hum of traffic. [^Reviews]
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit