Scenic Open Spaces (and Side Quests) in Southern Santa Clara County

Having grown up in southern Santa Clara County, exploring the nearby oak-studded hills, and quiet trails has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. Getting out into these landscapes shaped my passion for nature.

I learned patience while sitting quietly to watch a bobcat or herd of wild pigs. I learned resilience while braving rugged terrain and experienced a lot of joy simply breathing fresh air and taking in the views over the course of my life.

To be honest, I am so protective of these open spaces and their treasures that a small part of me hesitates to share them. But who am I kidding? The scenic spaces in places like Morgan Hill, Gilroy, and San Martin deserve to be respectfully admired. They’re reminders that even here, in one of the busiest regions of our state, peace is not out of reach.

Today, through my work with POST, I get to share these places while helping protect them. Many could have been lost to development, but thanks to local conservation organizations and our community, they’re now part of a growing network of open space that supports public access, conservation, and wildlife connectivity across the region.

Sweeten the Deal with a Side Quest

And what makes these adventures even better? After an outdoor excursion, you can stop by small business like a local winery, restaurant, or u-pick farm. These side quests support the community and ground the experience in the rhythms of this valley I’m proud to call home.

Get Outside in Southern Santa Clara County

Rancho San Vicente at Calero County Park

South San Jose

Nestled in the Almaden Hills, this POST-protected destination features ample parking, clean restrooms, and miles of multi-use trails. Options include everything from easy, flat loops to challenging climbs with rewarding views of Calero Reservoir and Mt. Umhunhum. The rolling hills, dotted with cows, transform throughout the seasons, ranging from golden brown to green and vibrant with wildflowers. As you explore this beloved South Bay gem, watch for golden eagles, rock wrens, and lark sparrows. Just a friendly heads up: these popular paths welcome hikers, cyclists, dog walkers, and trail runners alike.

Suggested Side Quests

South San Jose is full of worthwhile adventures. Start your Sunday at the Blossom Hill Farmers’ Market or swing by La Victoria (seven days a week!) for San José’s signature orange sauce. History buffs can wander the remnants of the old mining town at New Almaden, while night owls can cap the day with a movie at West Wind Capitol Drive-In.

Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve

Morgan Hill

Calling all hikers, cyclists, and equestrians! Located in the Santa Cruz Mountains, the trails in this POST-protected park wind through oak woodlands, grasslands, and creekside habitats. For an easy, accessible option, try the paved Llagas Creek Loop, perfect for strollers and wheelchairs. A recently installed bridge crosses the Llagas Creek, which surges during rainy winter months. Looking to get your heartrate up? The Catamount–Bald Peaks loop delivers sweeping views of Loma Prieta. In the spring, wildflowers add color along the way. Wildlife sightings—from bobcats to deer to coyotes—are common here, too.

Suggested Side Quests

The South Bay is a destination for seasonal experiences centered around local farms. In the Fall, head to the beloved Spina Farms Pumpkin Patch (crowds and all). Warmer months bring cherries and other stone fruits, while wine lovers can relax with their well-behaved pups at J. Winston Winery.

Uvas Canyon County Park

Gilroy

A legendary spot for South Bay locals, this park is amazing for campers, hikers, and picnickers who want an immersive nature escape. The shade of the canyon’s thick forest canopy makes it a pleasant place to get outdoors year-round. In wetter months, cascading waterfalls come alive. In fact, the hike is especially magical after winter rains. Keep an eye out for quail, deer, woodpeckers, hawks, and wild turkeys. Bonus: the park feels extra peaceful thanks to its reservation system (so be sure and plan ahead!).

Suggested Side Quests

Downtown Morgan Hill blends small-town charm with a burgeoning beer and restaurant scene. Refuel with hearty plant-based fare at Craft Roots, then enjoy a cold one at The Running Shop and Hops, a local craft beer hangout. Stroll the walkable streets and soak up the lively atmosphere. If you want to load up on some affordable and fast Mexican food post-hike visit Super Taqueria, or check out Siam Thai which is a local staple too. If you have kids I’d suggest spending an hour at Railroad Park, which has one of the coolest playgrounds in the area.

Henry W. Coe State Park

Morgan Hill, Gilroy, and Hollister (San Benito County)

Part of the Diablo Range, this 87,000-acre preserve (that’s about 86 Golden Gate Parks!) offers endless adventures. Hikers, backpackers, equestrians, mountain bikers, anglers, and wildflower enthusiasts all find their place among its valleys, ridges, ponds, and streams. Native oaks shade golden eagles, brush rabbits, and foxes. Beyond the main Morgan Hill entrance, Hunting Hollow near Gilroy is especially lovely in late spring, with trails near the headwaters of Coyote Creek. Or explore Dowdy Ranch off Pacheco Pass, open seasonally in the warmer months, where remote ponds and old ranch roads beckon.

Suggested Side Quests

From the southern entrances of Henry Coe, you are in striking distance of Gilroy, known for its annual festivals like the Garlic Festival, as well as the annual rodeo. Year-round activities include Gilroy Gardens – ideal for kids under 8 – while if you head East on Highway 152 you can visit Casa de Fruta, which offers old-fashioned charm with local treats and a miniature train, and is also home to the Northern California Rennaissance Faire. Adults can continue their South Bay wine tour at places like Solis Winery, or Fortino Winery.

Coyote Lake-Harvey Bear Ranch County Park

Gilroy and San Martin

Coyote Lake-Harvey Bear Ranch is tucked into the South Bay’s rolling hills and one of my personal favorite spots. Hike, bike, or ride horseback along 33 miles of trails, or camp under the stars at Lakeview Campground’s 73 reservable sites. The big draw? A beautiful, 449-acre lake perfect for boating, sailing, jet-skiing, and fishing (sorry, no swimming). In my opinion this is one of the best places to see wildlife in the South Bay – keep an eye out for wild pigs, coyotes, bobcats, deer and a ton of raptors while out on the trails. If you’re looking for a paved trail that’s friendly for kids on bikes or strollers, check out the San Martin Avenue entrance in San Martin. Be forewarned: the trails are mostly exposed, so bring a big hat and sunscreen!

Suggested Side Quests

San Martin may be rustic, but it’s big on easygoing charm. Local wineries like Satori Cellars offer sweeping vineyard views and tastings, while nearby farms like Terra Amico and Spade & Plow showcase the region’s agricultural roots. In San Martin you’ll also find San Martin Milk Company one of the only dairies left in the valley where you can drive up and buy fresh milk!

Bonus Park in San Benito County

Pacheco State Park

Hollister

At the center of the Diablo Range along Pacheco Pass, you will find Pacheco State Park, 6,890 acres famed for sweeping vistas, windswept oak woodlands, and seasonal bursts of wildflowers. Once a Mexican land grant, the park holds a rich history—from the Butterfield Stage route to the remains of the Pacheco adobe—while also honoring the traditional homelands of the Yokuts and Mutsun people. Today, hikers, bikers, and equestrians share 28 miles of trails with deer, tule elk, bobcats, and golden eagles. In spring, wildflowers carpet rolling hills; in spring; golden grasses shimmer in summer.

Visit Respectfully

It’s a truth well-known to southern Santa Clara County residents: our area is full of wide-open views, hidden trails, and side adventures. The only thing I ask? Visit with respect. Stay on trails, leave no trace, and support the communities that help keep this valley vibrant. After all, the best way to honor these landscapes is to ensure they remain just as magical for generations to come.