The best walks and hikes around San Martin
4.9
(16)
270
hikers
40
hikes
Hiking around San Martin features trails through varied terrain, including hills, lakefront paths, and parklands. The area provides opportunities for exploring natural landscapes with diverse elevation changes, with routes that traverse ridges, circle lakes, and pass through county parks. The region offers a range of paths suitable for different activity levels.
Best hiking trails around San Martin
- The most popular hiking route is Coyote Peak and Ridge Trail, an 8.2 miles (13.2 km) trail that takes 3 hours 48 minutes to complete. This moderate path offers views from Coyote Peak and follows a ridge.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Calaveras & Mummy Mountain loop β Coyote Lake - Harvey Bear Ranch County Park, a difficult 17.9 miles (28.8 km) path. This challenging route explores two mountains and loops around Coyote Lake.
- Local hikers also love the Coyote Lake loop from Gilroy, a 4.6 miles (7.5 km) trail leading through parkland around Coyote Lake, often completed in about 2 hours 6 minutes.
- Hiking around San Martin is defined by hills, lake views, and varied parkland trails. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate loops to more difficult mountain ascents.
- The routes in San Martin are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 15 reviews. More than 330 hikers have used komoot to explore San Martin's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
14
hikers
6.78km
01:59
210m
180m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
7
hikers
12.2km
03:33
320m
300m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4
hikers
16.9km
04:46
360m
330m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
8.25km
02:26
280m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9.76km
02:45
210m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Coyote Reservoir is a man-made lake in Santa Clara County, north of Gilroy. There are many trails in the reservoir for running, walking, and biking. The lake is also navigable from April to October.
0
0
Enjoy miles of trails winding through diverse landscapes, from oak woodlands to grasslands, catering to all levels. Keep your eyes peeled for over 219 bird species, including bald eagles, owls, and songbirds.
0
0
Coyote Reservoir is a man-made lake in Santa Clara County, north of Gilroy. There are many trails in the reservoir for running, walking, and biking. The lake is also navigable from April to October.
1
0
Willow Springs Trail is one of the primary routes for hikers to enter the 6,695 acre Coyote Lake - Harvey Bear Ranch County Park. The park features a 449-acre lake with a βworld-classβ population of black bass, bluegill, black crappie, and Eurasian carp. The park is home to rare western pond turtle, California tiger salamander, and Bay Checkerspot Butterfly, as well as two hundred-nineteen species of birds including bald eagles.
1
0
Coyote Lake (also known as Coyote Reservoir) was formed through the construction of a 140-foot (43 m) high, 980-foot (300 m) long, earth and rock dam in 1936. Swimming is not allowed in the lake by order of the Santa Clara Valley Water District, but it's worthy of a visit for the views alone (and fishing, for those who bring pole and tackle along for the hike!).
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around San Martin?
There are over 20 hiking trails around San Martin, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. The komoot community has explored 24 routes in total.
What types of terrain can I expect on San Martin hiking trails?
Hiking around San Martin features varied terrain, including hills, lakefront paths, and parklands. You'll find routes that traverse ridges, circle lakes, and pass through county parks, with diverse elevation changes.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners in San Martin?
Yes, San Martin offers several easy hiking options. There are 7 easy trails available, perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed walk. For example, the Coyote Lake loop from Gilroy is a moderate 4.6-mile path that takes about 2 hours 6 minutes to complete.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced trekkers?
Absolutely. For experienced hikers, there are 4 difficult trails. A notable challenging route is the Calaveras & Mummy Mountain loop β Coyote Lake - Harvey Bear Ranch County Park, which is a 17.9-mile path exploring two mountains and looping around Coyote Lake.
What are some notable viewpoints or landmarks along the trails?
Many trails offer scenic views, particularly around the lakes and from higher elevations. You can find stunning vistas at View of Chesbro Reservoir and Coyote Lake Overlook. The Coyote Peak and Ridge Trail also offers expansive views from Coyote Peak.
Are there any circular hiking routes in San Martin?
Yes, San Martin features several loop trails. Examples include the Coyote Lake loop from Gilroy, the Willow Springs Trail β Townsprings Trail loop from San Martin, and the Calaveras & Mummy Mountain loop.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in San Martin?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 9 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, from hills to lakefront paths, and the opportunities to explore natural landscapes with diverse elevation changes.
Are there any trails that pass by lakes or reservoirs?
Many trails in San Martin offer views of or pass directly by lakes and reservoirs. You can explore routes around Uvas Reservoir, Chesbro Reservoir, and Coyote Reservoir. The Coyote Lake loop from Gilroy is a great option for lakeside hiking.
What is the typical duration for hikes in San Martin?
Hike durations vary significantly depending on the trail. You can find shorter walks like the Coyote Lake loop from Gilroy, which takes about 2 hours 6 minutes, to longer, more challenging treks such as the Calaveras & Mummy Mountain loop, which can take over 8 hours.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in San Martin?
While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't provided, the 7 easy trails available are generally suitable for families looking for less strenuous outdoor activities. These paths often feature gentler slopes and shorter distances, making them enjoyable for all ages.
Where can I find information about parking for trailheads?
While specific parking details for each trailhead are not provided in this guide, most county parks and popular trail access points in the San Martin area typically offer designated parking facilities. It's advisable to check the specific park or trail website for detailed parking information before your visit.
Most popular attractions around San Martin
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
