Penitencia (Gross) Ponds – Upper Penitencia Creek loop from Milpitas

Mountain biking trails

Penitencia (Gross) Ponds – Upper Penitencia Creek loop from Milpitas

Moderate

2.8

(22)

riders

Penitencia (Gross) Ponds – Upper Penitencia Creek loop from Milpitas

01:54

29.6km

300m

Mountain biking

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: August 3, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

10.2 km

Penitencia (Gross) Ponds

Highlight • Structure

Visitors to the Penitencia Creek Trail can view the water-filled Dr. Robert W. Gross Recharge Ponds. These ponds, part of a system designed to recharge underground aquifers, are crucial for …

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11.3 km

Alum Rock Park

Highlight • Rest Area

Alum Rock Park is open 8am to a half-hour after sunset. This 720 acre park is home to a whole host of outdoor activities including running, hiking, equestrian sports, and …

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12.8 km

You can find free parking and restrooms by the side of the creek. From here you have the option of many different hilly but nontechnical trails up to Eagle Rock, Inspiration Point, Boccardo, or along the creek side.

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15.0 km

Amazing stone bridge

Highlight • Bridge

It's really amazing that this stone bridge is still here. I understand it was originally built to easily get pack horses across the creek — and of course the people with them, too.

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15.1 km

Historic Mineral Springs Grotto

Highlight • Natural Monument

The Mineral Springs Grotto in Alum Rock Park tells the story of the area's geological history and abundance of natural mineral springs. Developed between 1891 and 1902, masons crafted intricate …

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16.6 km

Alum Rock — Upper Penitencia Creek Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

Upper Penitencia Creek Trail runs through Alum Rock Park and connects to many of the area's trails. The trail itself is an easy gravel ride for beginners and kids, but many of the adjoining trails are more challenging.

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