Santa Clara County offers plenty of ways to trade screen time for fresh air. You can follow a creek through Almaden Valley, pedal between neighborhood parks in Campbell or enjoy wide-open views along the Bay.

The variety is what makes exploring here so rewarding. Some trails work beautifully for a short morning walk, while others invite a longer weekend ride. And you do not need to be an experienced hiker or cyclist to find an outing worth enjoying.

Here are seven standout destinations, chosen for their scenery, convenience and range of experiences.

1. Los Alamitos Creek Trail: A Local Favorite in Almaden Valley

For Almaden Valley residents, Los Alamitos Creek Trail is an appealing place to make outdoor time part of an everyday routine. The creek corridor connects with the Almaden Lake area, where the park’s east lot provides access to the trail. City of San José

This is a good choice when you want flexibility. Plan a short walk with a friend, enjoy a recreational bicycle ride or choose an out-and-back route that lets you turn around whenever you are ready.

For a walking-focused visit, nearby Lake Almaden Trail offers a paved route with continuous lake views and connections to park attractions. It is an inviting alternative when you would rather linger by the water than cover a longer distance. City of San José

Suggested outing: Begin at Almaden Lake and choose either a lakeside stroll or a longer excursion along the creek.

Why it belongs on your list: It brings together neighborhood convenience and an outdoor setting that makes it easier to get outside regularly.

2. Los Gatos Creek Trail: Parks, Creek Views and Flexible Routes

Los Gatos Creek Trail is a versatile choice for walkers and recreational cyclists. The corridor passes through Campbell Park, Los Gatos Creek County Park and Vasona Lake County Park, offering several places to begin an outing. Campbell’s section includes approximately three miles of paved walkway, including a two-mile par course loop. Open Space Authority

For a relaxed visit, choose a paved stretch near Campbell or Vasona and set your own turnaround point. A short walk can become a pleasant weekend ritual, while cyclists can plan a longer trip through connected sections.

Check the route before riding farther toward Lexington Reservoir. The county map identifies both paved and unpaved sections, so the entire corridor should not be treated as one uniform bicycle path. files.santaclaracounty.gov

Suggested outing: Start at Campbell Park for a comfortable walk or explore a paved stretch near Vasona.

Why it belongs on your list: Multiple access points make it easy to tailor the outing to your time and energy.

3. Coyote Creek Parkway: A Strong Choice for Longer, Relatively Flat Rides

If you enjoy settling into a steady pace, Coyote Creek Parkway deserves your attention. Santa Clara County describes a 15-mile paved, relatively flat trail running south from Hellyer County Park toward Anderson Lake County Park. The route follows the creek through areas of oak, cottonwood and sycamore trees. County of Santa Clara

You do not have to travel the full distance. Walkers can enjoy a shorter section, and cyclists can choose a ride that matches their experience.

The combination of a paved surface and limited climbing makes this an appealing option for people who prefer building distance gradually. Bring drinking water: the county notes that rest areas are provided, but water is not available along the parkway. County of Santa Clara

Suggested outing: Start at Hellyer County Park and plan a manageable out-and-back trip.

Why it belongs on your list: It offers room for a longer outing without making steep hills the main event.

4. Martial Cottle Park: An Easygoing South San Jose Escape

Sometimes the best outdoor plan is a simple one. Martial Cottle Park offers paved trails for walking and bicycling, along with picnic areas and access for dogs on leash. parks.ca.gov

Its agricultural setting gives the park a distinctive character. Here, outdoor recreation shares space with a reminder of Santa Clara Valley’s farming heritage.

Choose Martial Cottle when you want a casual walk, a gentle recreational ride or an outing with people who prefer a straightforward park setting. Its open landscape makes sun protection a useful addition to your day bag.

Suggested outing: Enjoy the paved paths at a comfortable pace, then take a break to appreciate the surrounding landscape.

Why it belongs on your list: It is an approachable option for fitting outdoor activity into a busy day.

5. Stevens Creek Trail: From Neighborhood Paths Toward Shoreline

Stevens Creek Trail is a rewarding option for exploring Mountain View on foot or by bicycle. The city identifies it as one of the routes visitors can use to reach Shoreline, alongside Permanente Creek Trail and the Bay Trail. www.mountainview.gov

Choose a shorter neighborhood section for a daily walk or plan a longer ride toward the bayfront. The appeal is the opportunity to experience different surroundings as you travel.

For fall 2026 visits, check the city’s construction notices. Its posted advisory schedules levee work from September through November, with the Song Sparrow Spur Trail closed during construction and intermittent closures at the northernmost end of Stevens Creek Trail. www.mountainview.gov

Suggested outing: Select an established access point and plan an out-and-back route based on current trail conditions.

Why it belongs on your list: It connects everyday outdoor activity with a larger network of trails.

6. Shoreline and the Bay Trail: Big Views and Birdwatching

For a different perspective on Santa Clara County, head toward Shoreline at Mountain View. Its trails connect with the Bay Trail, creating opportunities for both walking and bicycling. Nearby Stevens Creek Shoreline Nature Area supports a variety of waterfowl and shorebirds, including egrets, herons and black-necked stilts. www.mountainview.gov

This is a place to leave room in the schedule for stopping. Watch birds move through the wetlands, enjoy the changing light and take in the open landscape.

Bring a light layer for exposed sections. If you are planning to bring a dog, choose your route carefully: domesticated animals are not permitted within Shoreline, although leashed dogs are allowed on designated portions of Stevens Creek Trail farther south. www.mountainview.gov

Suggested outing: Choose a short bayfront walk with time for birdwatching, or extend your bicycle ride along permitted connecting paths.

Why it belongs on your list: The wetlands and broad views offer a refreshing contrast to inland creek trails.

7. Rancho San Antonio: A Standout for Walking and Hiking

For a more immersive nature outing, Rancho San Antonio County Park and Open Space Preserve offers more than 25 miles of trails across the adjoining properties. Routes range from gentler walks to demanding climbs, making advance route selection worthwhile. Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District

This is primarily a walking and hiking recommendation. Bicycle access is restricted to designated trails, and bikes are not permitted west of Deer Hollow Farm. Dogs are not allowed. Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District

Choose a shorter route if conversation and scenery are your priorities, or study the trail map for a more energetic hike. Allow extra time for parking during popular visiting periods.

Suggested outing: Pick a walking route suited to your group’s ability and use the official map to understand elevation changes.

Why it belongs on your list: It provides an opportunity to turn an ordinary walk into a fuller nature experience.

Which Trail Should You Try First?

A Little Planning Makes the Outing Better

Check the managing agency’s map and alerts before leaving. Closures, trail surfaces, parking arrangements and bicycle permissions can vary by section. E-bike access also requires checking the rules for the specific trail.

Carry water, use sun protection and give other trail users plenty of room. Cyclists should slow down when passing and follow posted speed limits.

For current conditions, consult Santa Clara County Parks alerts, Mountain View trail information and the Rancho San Antonio visitor page.

An Outdoor Lifestyle Close to Home

When exploring a neighborhood, it helps to think beyond the house itself. Where would you take a morning walk? Is there a nearby path you would use after work? Could a weekend ride begin close to home?

From Almaden Valley’s creek corridors to Mountain View’s bayfront, these outdoor spaces offer different ways to enjoy life in Santa Clara County.

Thinking about a move within Almaden Valley or Santa Clara County? Contact us to explore neighborhoods that fit your home preferences and the activities you enjoy.