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Mission Peak via Hidden Valley Trail

Fremont, California

4.2/5
based on 22 reviews

Details

Distance

6.16 miles

Elevation Gain

2116 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by The Outbound Collective

Mission Peak via Hidden Valley Trail takes you to scenic views of the bay area and valley to the east. This is an amazing trail to be on at sunset!

Breathtaking views of the Bay Area are your reward for making this climb to the top of Mission Peak. It’s a 3-mile trek to the top of the peak and then back down the same way. This is a moderate hike that provides a nice workout – so be prepared.

Park at the Stanford Avenue entrance gate. There is enough parking for about 20 cars, but if it’s full, there’s plenty of parking available along Stanford Avenue. Keep in mind that there are hours for both the parking area and the park (Learn More). Start by taking the Ohlone Wilderness Trail/Hidden Valley Trail (1.5 miles) to the Peak Meadow Trail (0.6 miles). Next, take the Grove Trail (0.2 miles) to a short connector trail (0.2 miles), and then to the Peak Trail (0.5 miles) to the summit. Retrace your steps on your descent.

Start times for this hike vary depending on the time of the year, but it’s best to start this hike a few hours prior to sunset. Once you get to the top, relax with some food and/or your favorite beverage, and enjoy the views. It will probably be a bit breezy and chilly, so dress in layers and be prepared to bundle up.

If you’ll be hiking down close to dark, make sure to bring headlamps or flashlights. This is a unique hike with amazing views – definitely well worth the effort.

Helpful Links:
Park MapPark Hours

NOTE:
The Stafford Parking hours are 6:30am-8:00pm Dec 31-Mar 31; 6:30am-9pm Apr 1 - Dec 22

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Features

Photography
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Groups
Scenic

Mission Peak via Hidden Valley Trail Reviews

I recommend starting at the Ohlone College parking structure instead of at the Stanford Avenue Staging Area. There is plenty of parking and the trail to the peak is easily located. This trail has more shade and takes a more gradual ascent up the peak. I started at 5:00 am and caught the sunrise at the top at 7:00 am with lots of breaks on the way up. I was also alone with my group at the peak until around 7:15 am. Take note that this version of the hike is around 8 miles round trip but you will not regret it. Also, do not forget to bring water! On my way down, I saw a lot of people that were not prepared at all for this hike so please, evaluate your fitness and preparedness before you decide to just jump into it. Remember, this hike is all the way up, and then all the way down with little to no easy hiking.

Good hike with friends, if you aren't use to hiking or active life style make sure you stretch after lol or you will be sore the next day

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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