Santa Teresa County Park
A diverse county park in San Jose offering a variety of hiking trails with sweeping views of hills and valleys.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, temps are mild
Santa Teresa County Park
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, temps are mild
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A diverse county park in San Jose offering a variety of hiking trails with sweeping views of hills and valleys.
"Probably the Best park in San Jose since there are Lots of different trails & many different ways to choose from."
☀️ Beat the Heat
Hike early or late; trails are very exposed. Bring plenty of water!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome on most trails. Great for furry friends!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Coyote Peak Summit
Coyote Peak Trail
Conquer this moderate climb for breathtaking 360-degree views of the South Bay and beyond.
Bernal-Gulnac-Joice Ranch
Trailhead
A charming starting point with scenic loops, perfect for a relaxed walk amidst wildflowers.
Wildflower Displays
Various Trails
In spring, the hillsides burst with color, offering a magical experience for nature lovers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Sunny Hikes
Trail Variety & Dog-Friendly Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ Beat the Heat
Hike early or late; trails are very exposed. Bring plenty of water!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome on most trails. Great for furry friends!
🥾 Trail Variety
Choose from easy loops to challenging climbs like Coyote Peak.
🌸 Spring Wildflowers
Visit in April for stunning poppy blooms and vibrant hillsides.
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Beat the Heat
Hike early or late; trails are very exposed. Bring plenty of water!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome on most trails. Great for furry friends!
🥾 Trail Variety
Choose from easy loops to challenging climbs like Coyote Peak.
🌸 Spring Wildflowers
Visit in April for stunning poppy blooms and vibrant hillsides.
🚗 Parking Tips
Arrive early on weekends as parking can fill up quickly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Santa Teresa County Park for its serene atmosphere, diverse trails, and stunning South Bay views. It's a popular, dog-friendly spot with ample parking and beautiful spring wildflowers, though some trails can be exposed and muddy after rain.
"Love coming to this place! So quiet and serene.
Dog friendly is a big plus. Not everyone has their dogs with them
The trail I go on is coyote peak and ridge trail. That’s about 3.5 mile loop trail
Lots of trail options. A good amount of parking even on weekends.
Very good view of the city as well. Especially if you go to the top point on some of the trails, you get a 360 view"
Monica
"Several trail options in a conveniently located county park with sweeping views of the South Bay. Trails are generally easy to moderate difficulty."
Anthony Anaya
"Coyote Peak and Ridge Trail Loop -
3.8 miles and 1 hr 50 mins to complete
Moderately challenging
Probably the Best park in San Jose since there are Lots of different trails & many different ways to choose from. The trails are clearly marked, but they can get a bit muddy after rains. Benches are scattered around the scenic spots.
The best time to visit is in April. Since the trail is completely exposed, April is not that hot. Also you can see a lot of wild flowers, even Poppy.
Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
Kids friendly hike"
Ronil Sawant (Californiaaa_baybae)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Santa Teresa County Park is located in San Jose, California. You can reach it by car via Highway 85 or Highway 101. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is generally recommended. Parking is available at various trailheads, but can fill up on busy days.
Yes, there are several parking areas throughout the park, particularly near popular trailheads like Bernal-Gulnac-Joice Ranch. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can become limited.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can drop you off at the park entrances. However, arranging a pickup might be more challenging depending on your exact location within the park.
Santa Teresa County Park is a public park and generally does not have an entrance fee for visitors. Parking is also typically free.
The park has a well-developed trail system. Using a trail map, available online or at the park, is recommended. Apps like AllTrails can also provide navigation assistance and trail details.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Santa Teresa County Park is a public space and does not require tickets for entry. You can access the park and its trails freely.
The park is typically open from sunrise to sunset. It's always a good idea to check the official Santa Clara County Parks website for the most up-to-date hours, especially for specific facilities.
The main restriction is adhering to park hours (sunrise to sunset). Dogs must be leashed, and visitors are expected to stay on marked trails and pack out all trash.
Yes, some covered picnic areas are available for reservation through Santa Clara County Parks. This is recommended for larger groups or special events.
While many trails are natural and can be uneven, some areas and picnic spots are accessible. It's best to check with the park directly for specific accessibility information regarding trails.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the Coyote Peak and Ridge Trail Loop (3.8 miles, moderately challenging) for panoramic views, and the Bernal-Gulnac-Joice Ranch trails for a more relaxed experience. Many options exist for varying fitness levels.
Yes, Santa Teresa County Park is very dog-friendly! Dogs are welcome on most trails as long as they are kept on a leash.
Visitors have reported seeing various wildlife, including turkeys, lizards, squirrels, coyotes, and even snakes. During spring, wildflowers are abundant.
Yes, the park generally offers restrooms and water fountains at key locations. It's always wise to carry extra water, especially on longer hikes.
The park offers sweeping views of the South Bay, San Jose, and surrounding hills. On clear days, you can see as far as Mt. Tam and even the San Francisco skyline. 
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or cafes within the park itself. However, there are numerous picnic areas with tables and benches, making it a perfect spot for a packed lunch or picnic.
Absolutely! Santa Teresa County Park is an excellent place for picnics. Many areas are equipped with tables and some have covered shelters, ideal for gatherings.
Since the park is located in San Jose, you'll find a wide variety of dining options in the surrounding neighborhoods. Areas like Almaden Valley or downtown San Jose offer numerous restaurants.
Typically, there are no food vendors operating within Santa Teresa County Park. It's best to bring your own food and drinks for your visit.
Sandwiches, salads, fruits, and snacks are ideal for a picnic. Remember to bring a cooler to keep food fresh and dispose of all trash properly to keep the park clean.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit of Coyote Peak offers incredible panoramic views, especially during sunrise or sunset. The rolling hills covered in wildflowers during spring are also a photographer's dream.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – provide the most flattering light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh due to direct sunlight.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. A tripod can help with low-light conditions during golden hours.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check the specific rules and regulations for Santa Clara County Parks regarding drone operation before flying.
Popular subjects include the rolling hills, wildflowers (especially in spring), panoramic city views, wildlife, and the park's natural landscapes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated picnic areas, some of which are covered and equipped with tables. The chance to see wildlife like squirrels and turkeys can be a big hit with kids. Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, and ensure children stay on marked paths for their safety. The park is also dog-friendly, so the whole family, including furry members, can enjoy the outing.
🐶 Dog Owners
Your dog will love exploring the varied terrain, from open meadows to more shaded wooded areas. Be sure to bring extra water for your pet, especially on warmer days, and always keep them on a leash to ensure the safety of other visitors and local wildlife. The park's size means you can enjoy long walks without repeating the same path.
🚶♀️ Casual Strollers & Nature Lovers
Enjoy the serene atmosphere, the sounds of nature, and the picturesque views. The park is a wonderful place to unwind, practice mindfulness, or simply enjoy a quiet moment outdoors. Visiting during the spring allows you to experience the vibrant wildflower blooms, adding an extra layer of natural beauty to your stroll.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Santa Teresa
+1Hikers often describe the trails as scenic and well-marked, though they can become muddy after rain. Some sections can be steep and rocky, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The park's elevation changes offer varied scenery, from open grasslands to oak woodlands. Keep an eye out for wildlife; sightings of turkeys, coyotes, and various birds are common.
+1For those seeking a more intense workout, longer routes can be pieced together, with some visitors completing 8-mile hikes. Mountain bikers also frequent the park, so be aware of shared trails. The park's natural beauty, especially during the spring wildflower season, makes it a standout destination for outdoor enthusiasts in the Bay Area.
Wildlife and Natural Beauty
The park truly shines in the spring when the rolling hills erupt in a vibrant display of wildflowers, including the iconic California poppy. This seasonal bloom transforms the landscape into a picturesque scene, attracting photographers and nature lovers alike. The combination of open grasslands, oak woodlands, and seasonal creeks creates a rich ecosystem.
Beyond the flora and fauna, the park offers stunning vistas. From higher elevations, you can enjoy sweeping views of the San Jose cityscape, the surrounding Santa Cruz Mountains, and on exceptionally clear days, even Mt. Tamalpais and the San Francisco skyline. This natural beauty provides a serene escape from urban life.
+1Historical Whispers and Local Lore
The park's landscape has been shaped by centuries of human activity, from its indigenous inhabitants to early settlers. The Bernal-Gulnac-Joice Ranch, a trailhead within the park, hints at the agricultural history of the region. Understanding this context can enrich the visitor experience, connecting the present-day natural beauty with the stories of those who came before.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit