The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Monte Bello Open Space Preserve (Closed Area)
4.6
(423)
5,563
hikers
140
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Monte Bello Open Space Preserve (Closed Area) traverse a diverse landscape spanning 3,436 acres, encompassing the upper Stevens Creek watershed. The preserve features rolling grasslands, dense creekside forests, and various tree species including Douglas fir, live oak, and California bay. Prominent features include Black Mountain, standing at 2,800 feet, which offers panoramic views. The terrain is also shaped by the San Andreas Fault, with features like a sag pond along the Canyon Trail.
Best family…
Last updated: July 10, 2026
10
hikers
16.4km
04:55
520m
520m
The Table Mountain via Long Ridge trail is a fantastic moderate hike that takes you on a diverse journey through the Long Ridge Open Space Preserve. You'll traverse shady woodlands…
6
hikers
11.0km
03:14
300m
330m
If you are seeking a hike that blends varied terrain with expansive views, the Long Ridge Loop is a fantastic option. This moderate 6.8-mile (11.0 km) route, with 984 feet…
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4.7
(3)
38
hikers
6.70km
01:53
140m
140m
The Long Ridge Loop offers a delightful blend of ecosystems, transitioning from cool, shaded creekside forests to open grasslands and ridgetop environments. You'll wander through lush woodlands along Peters Creek…
1
hikers
5.82km
01:41
150m
150m
The Long Ridge Loop is a fantastic way to experience the diverse beauty of the Santa Cruz Mountains, offering a dynamic landscape that shifts from lush, fern-filled woodlands to wide-open…
1
hikers
9.24km
02:40
220m
250m
The Bay Area Ridge Trail: Skyline and Russian Ridge offers a diverse hiking experience, transitioning from open grasslands to oak woodlands and peaceful ponds like Alpine Pond. You'll find a…
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Tips from the Community
From up here on the ridge you get great sweeping views across the foothills. On a clear day you can see out west to the Pacific Ocean.
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Borel Hill is my favorite place to watch spring flowers. The western slope near ancient oaks (5-10min west of Borel Hill) are covered with orange California Poppies and purple flowers starting in April. Borel Hill itself peaks around mid May and has a wide variety of flowers. The show lasts only a few weeks until end of May. The peak time and flower intensity varies from year to year, so come several times between April and May. There is small summit NW of Borel Hill and a narrow dirt trail leads you to a rock within 2 min. The rock is big enough for 2-3 to sit on. On a sunny day, the rock is nice warm even if the air is cold. Good views on the ocean and the Bay.
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Turtle Rock is the highest and most prominent mountain in the area. From this viewpoint, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains, especially stunning at sunset. Be cautious, as the trail is popular and often busy with hikers.
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Long Ridge Open Space Preserve is a 2,035-acre preserve that follows Long Ridge in the Santa Cruz Mountains. There are a variety of trails that can be used for hiking, biking, or horse riding. This is a dirt trail area, so it is more suited for gravel bikes or a stout touring bike; a hardtail would be ideal. In addition, this is a preserve and not a park, so there are no facilities that you would normally expect in a park, such as bathrooms, drinking water fountains, picnic tables, snack bars, or stores.
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At the convergence of the Long Ridge Trail and Long Ridge Road, you will find the Wallace Stegner Bench. This overlook was one of the favorite places of author and conservationist Wallace Stegner. There are panoramic views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Pacific Ocean to be had from here. However, if you come up by bike, the dirt trail is best suited for a touring bike with decent tires or a gravel bike.
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Turtle Rock gets its name because it looks like a little turtle with its head sticking up. This is a stunning spot to take a break and enjoy the overlook of the rolling hills and clouds roaming through the valleys.
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The top of Borel Hill has an elevation of 2,572 feet and offers panoramic views of the city below as well as views of the ocean in the distance.
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This small fenced-in viewpoint boasts sweeping views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and the surrounding area. It commemorates Gene Sheehan, who designed, built, and trained others to create this overlook and other trails throughout the open space. It is an excellent spot to capture photos of one of the best views in the preserve.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Monte Bello Open Space Preserve?
Monte Bello Open Space Preserve offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with nearly 160 routes in total. For families, there are over 70 easy-rated trails, providing plenty of options for enjoyable outings with children.
What kind of landscapes can we expect to see on a family hike in Monte Bello Open Space Preserve?
You'll encounter diverse landscapes, from rolling grasslands adorned with wildflowers in spring to dense creekside forests. The preserve features beautiful oak woodlands, chaparral, and riparian corridors along Stevens Creek, offering a rich natural experience for families.
Are there any easy loop trails suitable for families with younger children?
Yes, there are several easy loop trails. A great option is a shorter version of the Long Ridge Loop, which is approximately 5.8 km long and features gentle elevation changes, making it suitable for families looking for a relaxed walk.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to look out for?
One of the most prominent features is Black Mountain, offering stunning panoramic views that can extend to San Francisco, Silicon Valley, and the Pacific Ocean on clear days. You can also explore the Stevens Creek Nature Trail, which descends into the headwaters of Stevens Creek and follows the San Andreas Fault, providing interesting geological insights.
What is the best time of year to visit Monte Bello Open Space Preserve with family?
The preserve is considered vista-rich year-round. After fall and winter rains, the views are particularly clear. Spring brings a vibrant display of wildflowers like California poppy and blue-eyed grass, making it a beautiful time for family hikes. Shaded trails, like parts of the Stevens Creek Nature Trail, are pleasant on warmer days.
Is parking available at Monte Bello Open Space Preserve?
Yes, parking is available at various access points to the preserve. It's always a good idea to check specific trailheads for parking availability and any potential fees or restrictions before your visit, especially during peak times.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Monte Bello Open Space Preserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning panoramic views, the diverse ecosystems, and the well-maintained trails that cater to various skill levels, including many family-friendly options.
Can we expect to see any wildlife during our family hike?
Monte Bello is home to a rich array of wildlife. While sightings are never guaranteed, you might spot animals such as deer, coyotes, bobcats, or various bird species. Remember to observe wildlife from a distance and never feed them.
Are there any longer, moderate family hikes for older children or more experienced families?
For families seeking a longer adventure, the Long Ridge Loop, at around 11 km, offers a moderate challenge with rewarding views and varied terrain. Another option is the Table Mountain via Long Ridge route, which is longer but provides excellent opportunities for exploration.
Are there any trails that are partially accessible or suitable for strollers?
The Stevens Creek Nature Trail features a partially accessible segment that leads to a vista point and bench overlooking Stevens Creek Canyon. This section can be a good option for families with strollers, offering a shaded and relatively flat experience.
What should we bring for a family hike in Monte Bello Open Space Preserve?
It's always recommended to bring plenty of water, snacks, sun protection (hats, sunscreen), and appropriate footwear. Depending on the season, layers of clothing are advisable due to changing temperatures. A map or a loaded komoot tour on your phone is also helpful for navigation.
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