The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Máyyan 'Ooyákma – Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve
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Dog friendly hiking trails in Máyyan 'Ooyákma – Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve traverse a landscape characterized by rare serpentine grasslands and rolling hills. The preserve is located in the Diablo Range foothills, offering varied terrain for hikers. Ridgelines provide elevation gain and panoramic views of the Coyote Valley and Santa Clara Valley. The area connects significant habitats in the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Diablo Range.
Best dog friendly hiking trails in Máyyan 'Ooyákma – Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve
- The most popular dog friendly hiking route is Coyote Creek Trail, a 9.6 miles (15.4 km) trail that takes 3 hours 56 minutes to complete. This moderate route follows the creek, offering a longer path through the preserve.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Figueroa and Cottle Loop Trail, a difficult 10.6 miles (17.1 km) path. This route features significant elevation gain through varied terrain.
- Local hikers also love the Coyote Creek Trail, a 3.9 miles (6.2 km) trail leading through open areas, often completed in about 1 hour 34 minutes.
- Hiking in Máyyan 'Ooyákma – Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve is defined by serpentine grasslands, rolling hills, and oak woodlands. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult ability levels.
- The routes in Máyyan 'Ooyákma – Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 40 reviews. More than 600 hikers have used komoot to explore Máyyan 'Ooyákma – Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 10, 2026
6.20km
01:34
0m
10m
The Coyote Creek Trail offers a delightful and accessible journey through San Jose's diverse landscapes, blending urban convenience with natural beauty. You'll follow the meandering Coyote Creek, passing by tranquil spots like Coyote Pond and enjoying views of Cottonwood Lake, often shaded by oak and sycamore trees. This easy 3.9-mile (6.2 km) hike, with a mere 15 feet (4 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 33 minutes, making it a perfect escape for a quick nature fix.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is generally flat and paved, suitable for many users. However, be mindful that some urban stretches can have issues with encampments, and the trail is susceptible to flooding in spring. Summer temperatures can soar, so consider an early morning or late afternoon hike to avoid the heat, especially if you're looking for Coyote Creek Trail family friendly sections.
This trail is more than just a path; it's a recognized National Recreation Trail and part of the Bay Area Ridge Trail system, highlighting its importance. You might spot various Coyote Creek Trail wildlife and birds, from deer to turkeys, adding to the natural charm. It's one of San Jose's longest trail systems, offering a unique blend of natural and urban exploration.
15.4km
03:56
70m
20m
Hike the 9.6-mile (15.4 km) moderate Coyote Creek Trail, enjoying creek views, wildlife, and easy terrain in Coyote Creek Parkway.
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7
hikers
17.1km
05:03
480m
510m
The Figueroa and Cottle Loop Trail offers a challenging 10.6-mile (17.1 km) hiking experience through Calero County Park, featuring diverse terrain and panoramic views. You'll traverse rolling grasslands and dense oak woodlands, with significant climbs that provide stunning vistas of Calero Reservoir and distant peaks like Mount Umunhum. Expect a difficult route with 1583 feet (482 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 5 hours and 2 minutes to complete.
Planning your visit means preparing for a demanding hike; sturdy shoes are a must for the uneven, unpaved sections and steep ascents. The trail is best enjoyed in spring when wildflowers are abundant, though it offers rewarding views year-round. Access is via Calero County Park, so check for trailhead locations and plan your water supply, especially on sunny days.
This route stands out for its unique blend of ecosystems and the solitude it offers, as it's reserved for hikers and equestrians, meaning no cyclists. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like deer and various bird species. The trail provides a deep dive into the natural beauty of Santa Clara County, making it a notable option for those seeking a quieter, more immersive outdoor adventure.
4.5
(2)
10
hikers
12.7km
03:35
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
8.98km
02:51
360m
360m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
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Tips from the Community
Calero County Park is 4,471 acres with a diverse topography. The main feature is Calero Reservoir, which doesn't allow swimming, but you can wade. Calero Reservoir is interestingly the only body of water in Santa Clara County Parks that allows for boating year round.
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The Oak Cove Trail in Calero County Park is a 5.6-mile out-and-back trail open for mountain biking, hiking, and trail running. The trail offers a mix of flat sections and gentle hills, making it accessible for beginners and families. Riders can enjoy scenic views of the reservoir and surrounding landscapes. The trail connects with the Lisa Killough Trail, allowing for extended rides within the park. While the path is mostly flat, there are a few small hills that may require less experienced riders or kids to dismount. The first hill at the beginning (and the last hill on the return) is probably the most challenging.
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Calero County Park 4,400 acres park that features Calero Reservoir, a huge lake on the northern side of the park. This is the main entrance to the park with a big parking area, a visitor center, restrooms, picnic tables, and access to the Oak Cove Trail.
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The Coyote Creek Trail passes through the heart of Coyote Ranch, which is lined with open pastures and hillsides. There are also a couple small reservoirs on the property that you get to walk by during your hike.
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Calero County Park is 4,471 acres with a diverse topography. The main feature is Calero Reservoir, which doesn't allow swimming, but you can wade. Calero Reservoir is interestingly the only body of water in Santa Clara County Parks that allows for boating year round.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed in Máyyan 'Ooyákma – Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve itself?
No, due to the sensitive nature of its unique serpentine grasslands and critical habitat for endangered species, dogs are unfortunately not permitted within the Máyyan 'Ooyákma – Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve. This guide, however, focuses on dog-friendly trails located in the surrounding areas that offer similar natural beauty and outdoor experiences.
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available in the vicinity of Máyyan 'Ooyákma – Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve?
There are 7 dog-friendly hiking trails detailed in this guide, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels for you and your canine companion to explore in the areas surrounding the preserve.
What are the difficulty levels of the dog-friendly trails near Coyote Ridge?
The trails in this guide range from easy to difficult. You'll find 3 easy routes, 3 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route, ensuring options for various fitness levels and hiking preferences for you and your dog.
Are there any easy dog-friendly trails suitable for a relaxed walk?
Yes, for a gentle outing, consider the Coyote Creek Trail. This easy route covers approximately 6.2 km with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a leisurely stroll with your dog.
Can I find a longer, more challenging dog-friendly hike in the area?
Absolutely. For a more strenuous adventure, the Figueroa and Cottle Loop Trail offers a difficult 17 km journey with significant elevation changes, providing a rewarding challenge for experienced hikers and their dogs.
Are there any dog-friendly loop trails available?
Yes, several loop options are available. The Calero County Park – Los Cerritos Pond loop is a moderate 9 km loop, while the Rosendin Pond loop offers an easier 4.5 km option, both great for circular walks with your dog.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these dog-friendly trails?
The dog-friendly trails in the surrounding areas often traverse rolling hills, open spaces, and sometimes follow creek beds. While the preserve itself is known for serpentine grasslands, the nearby trails offer varied terrain, including paved paths, dirt trails, and some shaded sections, providing a diverse experience.
What is the best time of year to hike with my dog in this region?
Spring is particularly beautiful, with wildflowers blooming across the hillsides. However, the region can get very warm in summer, so early mornings or late afternoons are best during those months. Fall and winter also offer pleasant hiking conditions, though some trails might be muddy after rain. Always check weather conditions before heading out.
What kind of wildlife might we see on these dog-friendly trails?
While the sensitive preserve itself hosts rare species, the broader region is home to various wildlife. On the dog-friendly trails, you might spot common birds, rabbits, squirrels, and occasionally deer. Always keep your dog on a leash to protect local wildlife and ensure their safety.
What do other hikers enjoy most about these dog-friendly trails?
The komoot community rates the trails in this guide highly, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the scenic views of the surrounding valleys and hills, and the peaceful atmosphere perfect for enjoying nature with their dogs.
Are there any dog-friendly trails that are less crowded?
To find less crowded options, consider visiting during weekdays or earlier in the morning on weekends. Trails further from main access points or those with moderate to difficult ratings, like the Figueroa and Cottle Loop Trail, tend to have fewer visitors.
Most popular routes in Máyyan 'Ooyákma – Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve
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