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Best camping hiking trails in Santa Clara County
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Best camping hiking trails in Santa Clara County

Why stop at hiking when you can make it an overnight adventure? These camping-friendly trails are perfect for those who want to pitch a tent and sleep under the stars after a day of exploring.

Here are some great trails to explore in Santa Clara County.

Most popular trails

1

Medium

Lyman Willson Ridge and Steer Ridge Loop Trail

Santa Clara County, California · star 5.0 (5) · 11.6 km · Est. 3 hrs 17 min

2

Medium

Yerba Buena and Los Huecos Loop Trail

Santa Clara County, California · star 5.0 (3) · 9.5 km · Est. 2 hrs 32 min

3

Medium

Mount Madonna and Manzanita Group Camp via Tank Oak TrailLoop

Santa Clara County, California · star 4.0 (5) · 4.0 km · Est. 1 hrs 5 min

4

Medium

Los Cruzeros Camp via Corral Trail and Chine Hole Trail

Santa Clara County, California · star 5.0 (3) · 19.8 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

5

Medium

Wilson Peak Loop via Pacheco Falls Trail and Hunting Hollow

Santa Clara County, California · star 4.0 (3) · 36.7 km · Est. 1 day 4 hrs

6

Medium

Sprig Lake, Merry-Go-Round and Bayview Loop Trail

Santa Clara County, California · star 4.0 (3) · 12.8 km · Est. 3 hrs 53 min

7

Medium

Middle Steer Ridge, Tule Pond, Kelly Lake and Grizzly Gulch Loop Trail

Santa Clara County, California · star 5.0 (2) · 21.0 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

8

Medium

Middle Ridge Trail via Flat Frog Trail and Middle Ridge Trail

Santa Clara County, California · star 5.0 (4) · 11.8 km · Est. 2 hrs 59 min

9

Medium

Jim Donnelly Trail, Kelly Lake Trail and Grizzly Gulch Trail Loop

Santa Clara County, California · star 5.0 (3) · 27.3 km · Est. 1 day 2 hrs

10

Medium

Monument Peak and Mission Peak Loop from Sandy Wool Lake

Santa Clara County, California · star 5.0 (4) · 22.9 km · Est. 1 day 1 hrs

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Reviews for camping hiking trails in Santa Clara County

Micheal Farrell Esq. avatar

Lyman Willson Ridge and Steer Ridge Loop Trail

CrestExplorer28 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Dino Fadel avatar

Yerba Buena and Los Huecos Loop Trail

BackpackerRambler76 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Pres. Octavio Emard avatar

Mount Madonna and Manzanita Group Camp via Tank Oak TrailLoop

HillHiker42 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Bradford Okuneva III avatar

Los Cruzeros Camp via Corral Trail and Chine Hole Trail

FjordMeadowwalker94 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Daniella Runolfsdottir avatar

Wilson Peak Loop via Pacheco Falls Trail and Hunting Hollow

HollowTracer15 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in Santa Clara County

What is the climate like for hiking in California?

California's vast geography results in diverse climates. Coastal regions, with their mild, Mediterranean climate, offer year-round hiking opportunities, though winter rains may muddy trails. In contrast, the inland valleys and desert regions are best hiked from October to April, as summer temperatures can be prohibitive.
The Sierra Nevada, famous for its mountains and forests, is popular in summer and fall. However, winter brings heavy snowfall, making trails inaccessible. Meanwhile, the pleasant climate of Southern California allows for hiking throughout the year, with cooler, wet winters and hot, dry summers.
To summarize, California's diverse climate offers year-round hiking opportunities, varying by region. Visit www.parks.ca.gov for more detailed information about specific trails and their recommended seasons.

Do I need a permit to hike in California?

Permits for hiking in California, particularly in wilderness areas or for overnight trips, are often required. Managed by the National Park Service, Forest Service, or Bureau of Land Management, permit processes vary. For more information, visit respective agency websites or www.recreation.gov for federal lands.

Is wild camping allowed in California?

Wild camping in California is generally permitted in national forests and Bureau of Land Management lands. However, restrictions apply, such as the requirement of a campfire permit. Always follow "Leave No Trace" principles. Detailed regulations can be found on agency websites like www.fs.usda.gov

Are there mountain rescue services in California?

In case of a hiking emergency in California, dial 911. Also, the California Office of Emergency Services coordinates search and rescue. The Mountain Rescue Association (MRA) has several units in California, with information available at www.mra.org. Always plan ahead and hike safely.

Are there dangerous plants in California?

California's flora varies widely, from coastal scrub and redwood forests to desert plants and alpine flora in the Sierra Nevada. This diversity can affect hiking experiences and trail conditions. For detailed information on California's flora, visit the California Native Plant Society website: www.cnps.org

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in California?

California's diverse habitats host a wide range of wildlife, from harmless squirrels to larger mammals like black bears. Ticks and mosquitoes may pose minor nuisances to hikers. Be aware of potential encounters, particularly with venomous snakes in desert areas. For more, visit https://wildlife.ca.gov/

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