The best walks and hikes around Mountain View

Yes, many trails in the area are dog-friendly, but policies vary. While dogs are generally not permitted on trails within Shoreline at Mountain View to protect wildlife, they are often allowed on-leash in nearby open space preserves. Always check the specific regulations for the park or preserve you plan to visit before you go.

For an easy and accessible outing, the Permanente Creek Trail to Vista Slope — Mountain View is a great choice. It's a short, paved path through a recreational park, making it perfect for a quick walk with the family.

The Shoreline Lake Boating Center loop from Palo Verde is a pleasant, easy loop. This trail takes you around the lake and through the baylands, offering a straightforward route without the need to backtrack.

The immediate Mountain View area, characterized by baylands and flat creek trails, does not feature prominent waterfalls. For hikes with waterfalls, you would typically need to travel further into the Santa Cruz Mountains, where seasonal falls can be found after winter rains.

There are over 30 curated hiking routes to explore around Mountain View on komoot. These range from easy, paved shoreline paths to more moderate trails in the surrounding open spaces, offering plenty of options for all abilities.

The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars. Hikers often praise the diversity of scenery, from the bird-rich wetlands along the San Francisco Bay Trail to the green corridors of the various creek trails.

The terrain is quite varied. Closer to the bay, you'll find flat, paved, and well-maintained trails like the San Francisco Bay Trail. As you head towards the Santa Cruz Mountains, the trails become more rugged with unpaved paths, rolling hills, and steeper climbs through grasslands and forests.

Absolutely. Many of the hiking trails are also popular for trail running. The paved, flat paths like the Stevens Creek Trail are ideal for a smooth, consistent run, while the trails in nearby preserves like Rancho San Antonio offer more challenging terrain with elevation changes for a tougher workout.

Yes, several trailheads are accessible via public transportation. The Stevens Creek Trail, for instance, runs through urban areas of Mountain View and can be reached via VTA bus routes. It's always a good idea to check the VTA schedule and map your route to the nearest trailhead access point.

For expansive views of the bay and its salt marshes, the San Francisco Bay Trail — Sunnyvale section is an excellent choice. This trail runs along the shoreline, providing unobstructed vistas and great opportunities for birdwatching.

Even for an easy hike, it's wise to bring water, especially on warm days as shade can be limited on bayland trails. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential. For longer hikes in the hills, pack extra layers as coastal weather can change quickly, and bring some snacks or a light lunch.

While most trails directly in Mountain View are flat, the nearby open space preserves offer more challenging options. A short drive will take you to places like Rancho San Antonio or Monte Bello Open Space Preserve, where trails like the PG&E Trail climb into the Santa Cruz Mountains, providing strenuous workouts and rewarding panoramic views.