01
Best overall pick
Coyote Lake – Harvey Bear Ranch County Park
East Of San Martin • Rolling Lakefront And Ranchland Park • Go-To Choice For Varied Loops Close To Town
Wide-open ranch country, lake views, and flexible loops make this the most reliable hiking fix near San Martin.
Just east of San Martin, Harvey Bear Ranch offers miles of interconnected trails that range from mellow fire roads to steeper ridge climbs overlooking Coyote Lake. Expect classic South County scenery: golden hills, scattered oaks, and frequent hawk and turkey sightings. Start from the Mendoza Ranch or Harvey Bear trailheads to mix and match loops that fit your time and energy.
02
Epic backcountry option
Henry W. Coe State Park
Foothills Above Morgan Hill • Rugged Backcountry State Park • Best For Seasoned Hikers And All-Day Treks
Steep, remote, and expansive, Coe is where local hikers go when they want a real workout and big-sky solitude.
Coe’s network of trails and old ranch roads dives into deep canyons and climbs to broad ridgelines with sweeping views over the Diablo Range. The elevation changes are no joke, so plan on slow miles, bring plenty of water, and study the map before committing to a loop. It’s an unbeatable place for spring wildflowers and cool-season conditioning hikes, but can be punishingly hot in midsummer.
03
Shadiest summer escape
Uvas Canyon County Park
West Of Morgan Hill In The Santa Cruz Mountains • Shaded Creek And Waterfall Canyon Park • Best For Short Scenic Hikes And Families
A cool, wooded canyon with a well-marked waterfall loop that feels far removed from the valley heat.
Uvas Canyon’s main draw is its short waterfall loop, which follows a tumbling creek through dense forest with bridges, side falls, and plenty of photo stops. The park is compact but packed with scenery, making it ideal for families and casual hikers who still want a sense of adventure. Winter and spring are prime, when flows are strongest and the canyon feels lush and green.
04
Best rolling-ridge views
Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve
Santa Teresa Foothills Southwest Of San Martin • Oak-Studded Open Space Preserve • Best For Moderate Loops With Big Vistas
Sweeping ridge trails and quiet valleys offer a classic South Bay hike without the crowds of larger parks.
The preserve’s Mayfair Ranch and Longwall Canyon loops climb gently from a small trailhead into open grasslands and oak woodland, with wide views toward the valley. The grades are manageable but steady, making this a solid choice for hikers looking to step up from easy nature walks. Spring brings carpets of wildflowers, while clear winter days reward you with far-reaching panoramas.
05
History-rich hillside hike
Almaden Quicksilver County Park
South San Jose Hills • Historic Mining-Era County Park • Best For Mixing History With A Workout
Undulating trails through former mercury mine lands combine strong climbs with interpretive stops and broad valley views.
Almaden Quicksilver’s trail system winds past old mine structures, foundations, and interpretive signs that hint at the area’s past as a major mercury producer. You can stitch together loop hikes of many lengths, from shorter hillside rambles to longer circuits topping out on panoramic ridges. The mix of history, views, and varied terrain makes it a rewarding day trip from San Martin for hikers who like a bit of context with their climbs.