Skyline Trail, home to tall redwoods
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Sanborn County Park

4.7
·2k reviews·Saratoga, United States

Escape to Sanborn County Park, a tranquil redwood forest sanctuary with scenic creek trails, wildlife, and camping.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Lush greenery & wildlife

CrowdLow
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Skyline Trail, home to tall redwoods

Sanborn County Park

Best Time

Spring mornings

Lush greenery & wildlife

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Escape to Sanborn County Park, a tranquil redwood forest sanctuary with scenic creek trails, wildlife, and camping.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"A peaceful redwood retreat perfect for hiking and nature walks."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Fee

A $6 parking fee per vehicle is typically required. Consider a park pass if you plan frequent visits .

🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails

Dogs are welcome but must be leashed on most trails .

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sanborn Creek Trail

Sanborn Creek Trail

Follows Sanborn Creek

Meander alongside a beautiful, flowing creek through shaded redwood forests. Perfect for an easy, scenic walk.

Summit Rock Loop Trail

Summit Rock Loop Trail

Leads to Summit Rock

A moderate hike offering potential panoramic views from Summit Rock, though sometimes closed for falcon season.

Nature Trail

Nature Trail

Designated Nature Trail area

A paved, short, and easy trail ideal for families, featuring bridges and opportunities to see wildlife.

Redwood Forest Immersion

Redwood Forest Immersion

Throughout the park

Experience the awe of towering redwood trees, offering a peaceful and shaded environment for exploration.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Redwoods & Creek Vibes

Sanborn County Park offers a serene escape into redwood forests with trails winding along Sanborn Creek. Expect shaded paths, seasonal waterfalls, and opportunities for wildlife spotting. It's a great spot for both casual strolls and more challenging hikes, with camping and picnic areas available.

Trail Conditions & Closures

While generally well-maintained, some trails may experience temporary closures for construction or maintenance, as noted by visitors.Reddit Always check the park's official website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date information before your visit to avoid disappointment.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Lush greenery & wildlife
Crowd
Low
When
Fall afternoons
Why
Golden light & colors
Crowd
Medium
When
After rain
Why
Flowing creeks & waterfalls
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Looking for a beautiful hike in the South Bay? You’ll love this short and sweet trail that meanders around Sanborn Creek in Saratoga 😍 🥾 The hike is about 1.5 miles long out and back, with approximately 225 feet of elevation gain. 🌲 The hike is mostly shaded, with young redwood trees, a beautiful flowing creek, and there’s even a small (seasonal) waterfall! There are a few spots where it can be to...
@discover_california_
261 likes • 9.3K views

🚗 Parking Fee

A $6 parking fee per vehicle is typically required. Consider a park pass if you plan frequent visits.Instagram

🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails

Dogs are welcome but must be leashed on most trails.TikTokReddit

Please remember to leave no trace behind 😉 #nature #redwoods #fernforest #saratoga #sanborncountrypark #california #hiking #reconnectingwithnature #winkwink
@x_j9
482 likes • 2.6K views
Sanborn County Park, California 🙌✨🥰 ————————————————————- Follow: @travel_diaries.23 Location: Sanborn County Park, Saratoga, California. ————————————————————— #sanborncountypark #sanborn #nature #naturelover #peace #peaceful #myhappyplace #naturalbeauty #california #californiaadventure #rawusa_june24 #rawusa #raw_mountains #rscapes_jun24 #waterfall #watercreek #travel_diariesdot23photography #...
travel_diaries.23
43 likes • 2.3K views

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Trails can be dusty or muddy depending on the season. Good hiking shoes are recommended.Reddit

💧 Seasonal Water Features

Creeks and waterfalls are most impressive after rain; bring water shoes for creek crossings if exploring.TikTok

Sanborn County Park is a special place, especially after the recent rains. 🌲 If you’ve been before, what’s your favorite part about it? Share in the comments so first time visitors know what to look forward to! 🥰 . . Please note that conditions are constantly changing in our parks right now. Make sure to check for any closures on our website ParkHere.org (link in bio) before heading out. . . . #r...
santaclaracountyparks
866 likes • 11.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Fee

A $6 parking fee per vehicle is typically required. Consider a park pass if you plan frequent visits.Instagram

🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails

Dogs are welcome but must be leashed on most trails.TikTokReddit

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Trails can be dusty or muddy depending on the season. Good hiking shoes are recommended.Reddit

💧 Seasonal Water Features

Creeks and waterfalls are most impressive after rain; bring water shoes for creek crossings if exploring.TikTok

🧥 Bring a Jacket

The redwood canopy keeps it cool, even on warmer days. A light jacket is advisable.TikTok

📸 Capture the Scenery

Plenty of photo opportunities with redwoods, creeks, and wildlife. Don't forget your camera! TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Sanborn County Park's serene redwood forests and peaceful atmosphere, calling it a perfect escape for hiking and nature walks. The trails are generally well-maintained, offering beautiful scenery along Sanborn Creek and opportunities for wildlife spotting. While some trails may occasionally be closed for maintenance, the park is highly recommended for its natural beauty and tranquility.

"Great place to hike. The paths are a bit dusty, but the views are great. Many redwoods. As of September 2025, both Upper and Lower Madrone trails were closed due to construction."

Galina G

"Great park for a medium difficulty hike, picnicking or camping. $6 to get in, or use a pass. Multiple restrooms, running water, lodges for weddings and beautiful views from the top.
8/3/2025- a huge part of the Western loop trail was closed - most likely due to maintenance. Dog friendly, must be leashed."

Zsuzsanna Sziveri

"Absolutely gorgeous county park with redwood forests, picnic places, Shakespeare in the Park performances, and hiking trails. Perfect for avid hikers and families alike. Good for an afternoon out!"

Kate Lincoln

What People Like

Peaceful redwood forests
Scenic creek trails
Family-friendly options

What People Dislike

Occasional trail closures
Dusty paths in dry season

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Sanborn County Park is located at 16055 Sanborn Rd, Saratoga, CA 95070.TikTok It's nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains between Saratoga and Skyline Boulevard.Instagram Driving is the most common way to access the park, with parking available for a fee.TikTokInstagram

Public transportation options to Sanborn County Park are limited. It's best to check local transit schedules for any available bus routes that may get you close to the park entrance, though driving is generally recommended for ease of access.

From San Jose, take I-280 North to Saratoga Avenue, then head west on Saratoga Avenue, which becomes Sanborn Road. Follow Sanborn Road to the park entrance. The drive offers scenic views as you approach the park.TikTok

While major road closures are uncommon, it's always wise to check local traffic conditions before heading out, especially if traveling during peak hours or inclement weather. The road to the park can be winding.

Sanborn County Park is conveniently located about 25 minutes from downtown San Jose, making it an accessible day trip destination for Bay Area residents.TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is typically a $6 parking fee per vehicle to enter Sanborn County Park.Instagram Park passes may also be accepted, so check with park authorities if you have one.

Sanborn County Park is generally open daily from sunrise to sunset. However, specific facility hours, like restrooms or campgrounds, may vary. It's best to check the official Santa Clara County Parks website for the most current information.

For general park entry and hiking, advance ticket booking is usually not required. However, if you plan to use picnic areas, lodges, or campsites, reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekends and holidays.

Information on discounts or annual passes for Santa Clara County Parks can usually be found on their official website. These passes can offer savings for frequent visitors.

While the park grounds are generally open from sunrise to sunset, camping areas have specific check-in and check-out times. It's advisable to confirm the exact hours for any specific facilities you plan to use.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Popular trails include the Sanborn Creek Trail for easy, scenic walks,TikTok+1 the Summit Rock Loop Trail for moderate climbs,TikTok and the Nature Trail for families.TikTokInstagram The park offers over 22 miles of trails, ranging from easy to challenging.Instagram

Yes, Sanborn County Park is very family-friendly. The paved Nature Trail is short and engaging for children, with features like bridges and hollowed trees.TikTokInstagram The redwoods and creek also provide natural exploration opportunities.

Absolutely! Sanborn County Park has numerous picnic tables scattered throughout the park, making it an ideal spot for a family picnic or a gathering with friends.Instagram

Yes, Sanborn County Park offers RV and tent campsites. It's a hike-in site, meaning you'll need to carry your gear a short distance to your campsite.Reddit

Visitors have reported seeing deer, salamanders, various birds like Stellar's jays, dragonflies, butterflies, and newts.TikTokInstagram The redwood forest ecosystem supports a diverse range of wildlife.

📸 📸 Photography

The redwood groves offer stunning, dappled light for photography.TikTok The Sanborn Creek and its seasonal waterfalls provide beautiful water features.TikTok+1 Look for wildlife and unique forest textures.

Yes, the park is filled with majestic redwood trees. Focus on capturing the scale of the trees, the light filtering through the canopy, and the textures of the bark and forest floor.TikTok

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful warm light that enhances the redwoods. Mid-day can be good for capturing the dappled light under the canopy.TikTok

Drone usage is typically restricted in most county and state parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check the specific park regulations or contact the park office for clarification on drone policies.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the grandeur of the redwoods. A macro lens can be useful for close-ups of forest floor details, fungi, or insects. A tripod can help with low-light conditions under the dense canopy.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Sanborn County Park is an excellent choice for families. The paved Nature Trail is specifically designed for little ones, featuring fun elements like bridges and hollowed-out trees that spark imagination.TikTokInstagram It's an easy, short walk where you might spot salamanders, deer, or colorful birds.TikTok

Beyond the Nature Trail, the general atmosphere of the redwood forest is enchanting for children. The Sanborn Creek Trail offers a gentle path alongside the water, providing sensory engagement with the sounds and sights of the creek.TikTok Remember to bring a jacket, as the shade can make it feel cooler than expected.TikTok

🐶 Dog Owners

Dog lovers rejoice! Sanborn County Park is dog-friendly, allowing your furry companions to join you on most trails.TikTokReddit However, it's crucial to remember that dogs must be kept on a leash at all times to ensure the safety of other visitors and the park's wildlife.Reddit

While dogs are welcome, be mindful of the trail conditions. Some paths can be dusty or muddy, so ensure your dog is comfortable with such terrain. The shaded redwood forest provides a pleasant environment for dogs, especially during warmer months.

🏕️ Campers

For an immersive nature experience, consider camping at Sanborn County Park. The park offers hike-in campsites, which means you'll carry your gear a short distance to your site.Reddit This adds a sense of adventure and seclusion to your stay.

Be prepared for a steep climb on the road leading to the campsites.Reddit Once set up, you'll be surrounded by the peaceful ambiance of the redwood forest. It's a great way to extend your visit and enjoy the park's tranquility after the day-trippers have left.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Hiking Trails and Difficulty

Sanborn County Park boasts over 22 miles of diverse hiking trails, catering to various fitness levels. For an easy and scenic experience, the Sanborn Creek Trail is highly recommended, meandering alongside the creek with beautiful redwood views.TikTok+1 This trail is often described as short and sweet, perfect for a leisurely stroll.TikTok

For those seeking a bit more challenge, the Summit Rock Loop Trail offers a moderate climb and the potential for rewarding vistas from Summit Rock.TikTok It's important to note that Summit Rock itself can sometimes be closed due to falcon nesting seasons, so checking ahead is advised. More adventurous hikers can explore longer routes like the Winery Road and Saratoga to Skyline Trail, which can extend to over 6 miles.TikTok

Families with young children will appreciate the paved Nature Trail, a short and easy path designed to keep kids engaged with features like bridges and hollowed trees.TikTokInstagram This trail is also a great spot for spotting local wildlife. Regardless of the trail chosen, be prepared for shaded paths, as the dense redwood canopy provides ample cover.TikTok

Camping and Facilities

Sanborn County Park offers a unique camping experience with its hike-in campsites, nestled within the serene redwood forest.Reddit While the road to the campsites is not excessively long, it involves a steep climb, so be prepared to haul your gear.Reddit This setup adds to the secluded and natural feel of the camping experience.

The park provides essential facilities for campers and day-use visitors alike. Multiple restrooms are available throughout the park, and running water is accessible. For group events, Sanborn County Park features lodges that can be rented for weddings and other gatherings, making it a versatile venue for both recreation and celebrations.Reddit

Picnic areas are plentiful, offering a pleasant setting for enjoying a meal amidst nature.Instagram The combination of camping, picnic spots, and rentable lodges makes Sanborn County Park a well-rounded destination for various types of visits, from a quick day hike to an overnight stay or a larger event.

Wildlife and Nature

Sanborn County Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering abundant opportunities to observe local wildlife and flora. The park's ecosystem, dominated by towering redwood trees, creates a cool, shaded environment that supports a variety of life.TikTok+1 Visitors often report sightings of deer, salamanders, and numerous bird species, including Stellar's jays.TikTok

The presence of Sanborn Creek and its tributaries adds another dimension to the park's natural beauty. After rainfall, the creek swells, and small seasonal waterfalls can be observed, making the park particularly vibrant.TikTok+1 The creek crossings can be an adventurous part of the hike, with some visitors opting to use logs to traverse or bringing water shoes.TikTok

Beyond the larger fauna, keep an eye out for smaller wonders like dragonflies and butterflies.TikTok The park's diverse habitats also support a variety of fungi and other fascinating plant life, especially in the damper areas near the creek.Instagram It's a place where you can truly reconnect with nature and appreciate the subtle beauty of the forest.

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