The best hikes from bus stations in Lexington Reservoir County Park

There are 18 bus-accessible hiking routes in Lexington Reservoir County Park featured in this guide. These include 8 easy routes and 10 moderate routes, offering a variety of options for different skill levels.

The bus-accessible hikes in Lexington Reservoir County Park offer diverse terrain. You can expect reservoir-side paths, chaparral-covered hills, and shaded oak woodlands. Some trails also feature redwood forests and grasslands, providing varied scenery and elevation changes. For example, the Lexington Reservoir Overlook – Saint Josephs Hill summit loop from Los Gatos includes significant elevation gain.

Yes, there are several easy, family-friendly options. The Lexington Reservoir – Los Gatos Creek Trail loop from Los Gatos is an easy 6.8 km route, perfect for a relaxed outing. Another gentle option is the Forbes Mill 🍞 Los Gatos – Forbes Mill Museum loop from Los Gatos, which is 5.2 km long and also rated easy.

Many trails offer views of the 338-acre Lexington Reservoir itself. You can also explore sections of the Los Gatos Creek Trail and the Priest Rock Trail. During periods of low water, you might even spot remnants of the historic towns of Lexington and Alma, submerged when the reservoir was created. The James J. Lenihan Dam is another notable man-made feature.

Yes, many of the bus-accessible routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without needing to retrace your steps. Examples include the moderate Vasona Lake – Vasona Lake loop from Vasona Lake Eucalyptus Grove and the easy Lexington Reservoir – Los Gatos Creek Trail loop from Los Gatos.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from 132 ratings. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from reservoir views to shaded woodlands, and the well-maintained trail network that caters to various skill levels. The opportunity to explore both natural beauty and historical elements is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, for those seeking a longer challenge, the moderate Camden Ponds – Vasona Lake loop from Cambrian Park covers over 16 km. Another moderate option is the Lexington Reservoir Overlook – Saint Josephs Hill summit loop from Los Gatos, which offers significant elevation gain and panoramic views.

Lexington Reservoir County Park offers varied scenery throughout the year. Spring brings wildflowers and lush greenery, while fall provides pleasant temperatures and changing foliage. Even in winter, the trails can be enjoyable, though conditions may vary. Summer can be warm, so early morning or late afternoon hikes are often preferred during this season.

Absolutely. Beyond hiking, the reservoir itself allows for activities like boating (with limited power and hand-launched vessels), kayaking, and fishing. The park also offers opportunities for mountain biking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing, making it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Yes, Lexington Reservoir County Park seamlessly connects to adjacent open spaces like Sierra Azul and St. Joseph's Hill Open Space Preserves. It is also part of the developing Bay Area Ridge Trail, further expanding exploration opportunities for those looking to extend their hikes beyond the immediate park boundaries.