Historic Ruins and Summer Wildflowers

Hike Alum Rock Park in San Jose for summer wildflowers, interesting ruins, and beautiful views

A well-rounded summer hike defines this 4-mile loop in San Jose's Alum Rock park is packed with great views, historical ruins, and a close-up look at our native plants and animals.

From the Mineral Springs Parking Lot, head east on the Penitencia Creek Trail. As the first whiff of sulfur hits your nose, look left to explore the ruins of the old bath houses and drinking fountains, popular tourist attractions in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The rich and famous of San Jose once flocked to this natural hot spring for its healing “fountain of youth” properties.

At the intersection with Sycamore Switchback Trail, turn right to begin a steep ascent into the hills. This section of trail is covered in summer wildflowers, including sticky monkey, morning glories, and dudleya. The beautiful variable checkerspot butterfly is a common sighting.

Turn right onto South Rim Trail and follow it through the shaded forest—a respite on hot summer days! Buckeye trees line the route, easily spotted by their large tufts of white flowers. Get glimpses of San Jose through the thick tree cover.

Follow the trail as it descends, then turn left onto South Woodland Trail. Cross Alum Rock Road, and then follow North Woodland Trail to Inspiration Point. Take a breather on the benches or snap some photos of the view—stretching all the way across Silicon Valley to the East Bay hills.

From Inspiration Point, turn right on Inspiration Point Loop, then right again on Penitencia Creek Trail. Take a peek at the historic Alum Rock Log Cabin or swing by the playground and Ramada Picnic Site for a great place to relax with kids. The final stop is the Youth Science Institute, a kid-friendly museum that introduces youngsters to native flora and fauna. (Check the park website for hours.)

After enjoying the park amenities, cross the stone bridge in front of the Youth Science Institute to return to the parking lot.

Alum Rock Park is located at 15350 Penitencia Creek Rd. in San Jose. There is a $6 parking fee. (There are free parking lots toward the park entrance.) No dogs.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Gentle Giants

    Some people visit national parks to marvel at the iconic sights, while others come seeking solitude in nature. With visitation on the rise, it can be hard to find both. But in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, this pair of trails offers both....

    View
  2. Screaming Good Garden

    Combine a classic scary movie backdrop and life-size elephant garden sculptures in beautiful downtown Sonoma.

    View
  3. A Hike to the Past

    This 5.2-mile redwoods hike through El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space combines a relaxing stroll with unique geologic formations and historical artifacts.

    View
  4. Golden Mile

    Dubbed the Golden Mile, this car-free stretch of road in Golden Gate Park features rotating art installations of murals, sculptures, and abundant bright yellow Adirondack chairs for kicking back to relax. See Naga, the recent new addition here, an impressive sea serpent art installation at Golden Gate Park's Rainbow

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Sponsored

    Chase Fall Colors & Family Fun in Reno Tahoe

    Ready to Reno? We’re so with you! Reno Tahoe is the ultimate urban basecamp for gathering family and friends for all kinds of fall fun and festivities.

    View
  2. Welcome to the Ice Age

    Only in LA can you stumble upon a lake of bubbling black goo right in the middle of the city—complete with a life-size family of mammoths frozen in time. Take a whiff and you’ll catch the unmistakable scent of asphalt: Yep, you’ve made it to the La Brea Tar Pits & Museum.

    View
  3. Griffith's Golden

    With over 4,200 acres and hundreds of trails, Griffith Park is the gold standard. Opt for the lesser-hiked northwestern end of the park and visit the 2.25-mile Skyline and Oak Canyon loop from Travel Town.

    View
  4. Mulholland's Most Majestic

    Take a leisurely drive along Mulholland Drive to discover beautiful urban scenery and unexpected wild beauty, right in the middle of the city. 

    View