The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Mountain View

The Stevens Creek Trail is a dynamic route that weaves through the heart of Silicon Valley, offering a unique blend of urban greenway and natural escape. You'll traverse paved multi-use paths along the creek's levy bank, transitioning into natural riparian corridors and even forested foothills and marshy wetlands, particularly around the Stevens Creek Shoreline Nature Study Area Open Space Preserve. This moderate 11.6-mile (18.7 km) hike, with a gentle 163 feet (50 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 4 hours and 45 minutes, making it ideal for a longer, adaptable outing.

Accessing the trail is straightforward, with numerous entry points and parking options available along its extensive course, from Mountain View to areas closer to the reservoir. Many sections are well-equipped with amenities like benches and drinking fountains, enhancing your experience. While much of the trail is easy, some segments, especially those near the reservoir, feature rolling hills and occasional steep inclines, so be prepared for varied terrain. Autumn offers particularly attractive golden foliage, making it a great time to visit.

This trail is a significant multi-use corridor, aiming to connect the San Francisco Bay to the Santa Cruz Mountains, and serves as a vital wildlife corridor for Stevens Creek. It provides car-free access for pedestrians and cyclists to employment hubs and transit, highlighting its role as a natural linear park even through suburban neighborhoods. The route offers a spectrum of experiences, from urban stretches to rugged open space, making it a versatile option for many outdoor enthusiasts.

The Moffett Boulevard Bike Bridge – Stevens Creek Trail loop offers a refreshing urban hike, primarily on paved surfaces with some compacted gravel sections. As you follow Stevens Creek, you'll enjoy a natural linear park atmosphere, punctuated by unique views of the NASA Ames Research Center, including the impressive Hangar One and a large wind tunnel. Keep an eye out for birds and wildlife as you approach the San Francisco Bay, where the trail connects to Shoreline Park.

This moderate 6.3-mile (10.1 km) route with just 83 feet (25 metres) of elevation gain is a great option for an easy outing, taking about 2 hours and 34 minutes. The trail is well-developed and tidy, with few street crossings, making for a smooth experience. It's generally accessible and suitable for all skill levels, offering a pleasant walk any time of year.

The Stevens Creek Trail is a prime example of how urban areas can transform unused land into a vital recreational resource, maintaining a natural feel even alongside major roads. The Moffett Boulevard Bike Bridge significantly enhances connectivity, and the trail serves as an important gateway to the wider San Francisco Bay Trail, opening up possibilities for extended routes and exploring various parks and attractions.

The Sleeper Park loop in Mountain View offers a delightful escape into a green oasis, winding through tranquil gardens and grassy areas alongside a creek. This easy route is mostly paved, providing a smooth surface for walkers, runners, and even bikes, all while enjoying the lush scenery and peaceful atmosphere of this important wildlife corridor.

Planning your visit is straightforward; the trail is accessible year-round and welcomes leashed dogs, making it a great option for the whole family. You'll find benches and water fountains along the way, and while it can be popular, arriving earlier in the day often ensures a more serene experience.

This 4.3-mile (6.9 km) loop, with a gentle 83 feet (25 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete. It's an excellent choice for beginner hikers or anyone looking for a quick, easy outing in nature, offering a refreshing break from city life right in Mountain View.