Sierra Vista Surprise

Hike Sierra Vista Open Preserve

Urbanized landscape can sometimes blend beautifully with wide-open spaces. It’s all about perspective. And San Jose's Sierra Vista Open Space Preserve provides it! Get unobstructed views of the Santa Clara Valley and all the way across the bay on a 4.2-mile (round-trip) partial loop hike. The trail is steep and exposed, so don't do this hike in mid-afternoon heat. This is a reverse hike as well, with the first half as a descent. Take your time because the downhill section is where you get the best views. Combine the Kestrel and Sierra Vista trails before reaching the Boccardo Loop Trail. The entire first half brings beautiful views as you pass through grasslands and oak woodlands, taking in views of San Jose, Mount Hamilton, and—on clear days—San Francisco. The return trip uphill is a thigh-burner, but the views are definitely better than what you'll get on a Stairmaster.

BONUS SUNRISE HIKE: This Saturday (July 11), check out the preserve at sunrise. Meet at Sierra Vista in the parking lot and go on a guided sunrise hike along the brand new 1.2-mile Aquila Trail. Arrive at 6:00 a.m. if you want to take photos of the sunrise, and arrive by 6:45 a.m. if you just want to do the hike. An enthusiastic guide named Teri will be in the parking area.

From I-680, exit east on Berryessa Rd. Take a left on Piedmont Rd., then a right on Sierra Rd. and follow it to the top, where you'll find free parking. Trail map at the parking lot. Start on Kestrel Trail and in  a quarter mile you'll reach Sierra Vista Trail. Follow it for half a mile to the Boccardo Loop Trail. NOTE: There are no water sources or restrooms within the Preserve. No dogs.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. The Occidental Tourist

    The Grove of Old Trees in Occidental is 33 hidden acres of towering redwoods and the only privately owned preserve in Sonoma County that's free to the public. Hike one of two flat loop trails shaped like an upside-down peace sign.

    View
  2. Two hikers at Bear Creek Redwoods Regional Preserve on a new trail.

    New Trails at Bear Creek

    Looking for new trails? Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve has added 170 acres of forest, grassland, and historical sites. Hike this 3.5-mile loop through the new addition.

    View
  3. Woman swimming in Carson Hotsprings natural thermal pool

    Hot Springs, Naturally

    Thermal spring waters are famous for their curative, relaxing elements, and Reno Tahoe is filled with them! Sink into these amazing thermal respites for a wellness super soak.

    View
  4. Drake Awakening

    Part salt water, part fresh water, Drake’s Estero is smack in the middle of Point Reyes, and one of only two marine wilderness areas in the entire nation. Yeah, it’s worth a look. Get the extended version by hiking right alongside it.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Merry in Moreno Valley

    At 2.6 miles round trip, a quick escape to the out-and-back Cold Creek Trail in Moreno Valley is a great way to enjoy a beautiful sunset.

    View
  2. Boardwalking Bliss

    The Stanfield Preserve Boardwalk Trail traverses 1.6 miles of beautiful Big Bear Lake, giving you a chance to get up close to the lake without needing a boat. You’ll also enjoy some peaceful wildlife watching.

    View
  3. Get Into The Grove

    The 1.8-mile Oak Grove Park Loop trail in La Cañada is short, easy, and close to the city; meaning it’s a perfect destination for a quick holiday hike.

    View
  4. Woman hiking down the stairs to Coast Royale Beach in Orange County

    Secluded Royale

    Panoramic coastal views and a killer leg workout combine on this 2.7-mile (round-trip) out-and-back hike to secluded Coast Royale Beach in Orange County

    View