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Hike the Monte Bello Open Space Preserve Loop

Los Altos, California

4.5/5
based on 4 reviews

Details

Distance

2.9 miles

Elevation Gain

600 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Brennan McDonald

This is an amazing 2-hour hike in the Monte Bello Open Space Preserve that has a beautiful creek and scenic views.

This hike is best done in the late fall, winter, and spring so that the creek is running and the hills are green. Starting at the preserve parking lot, the first half of the hike is predominantly downhill. At the main trailhead, start in the direction of the Stevens Creek Nature Trail, as told by the signs. Along the first quarter mile, you can see views of the entire preserve, with a backdrop of forested mountains. At the first trail intersection, take a right on the Stevens Creek Nature Trail that will lead downhill towards a forested canyon. Soon, you will enter an oak and bay laurel forest above a small creek. Continuing on, the creek will gradually gain in size as tributaries enlarge its flow. During the winter in calm, deep pools, you may find 4-inch California Newts, which exhibit a striking-orange underside. At multiple points on this section of trail, you will cross over the creek on bridges, allowing you to take in the beautiful riparian scene.  Then, about a mile and a half into the hike, you will begin to ascend out of the canyon. Passing through beautiful pine and oak forests, the trail will become steep at times. When you reach the trail intersection with the Canyon Trail at a small meadow, take a right, or north, towards the Page Mill Road parking lot. About a quarter mile from this intersection after a steep incline, the trail will rise above the tree-line, revealing views of the surrounding valley. The trail will gradually ascend, passing ancient oak trees and bay laurels as well as ponds and wetlands. When you come up to the trail intersection with the Stevens Creek Nature Trail, take a left (west) towards the Page Mill Road parking lot. This section of trail will take you through a grove of walnut trees and reveal spectacular views of the preserve. Continue along the trail until you reach the parking lot, your starting point. 

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Features

Photography
Running
Hiking
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Forest
Scenic
Wildlife

Hike the Monte Bello Open Space Preserve Loop Reviews

Not my favorite hike, but nice view and a great place to quickly hike duing the day

An easy hike in the hills above Silicon Valley, Monte Bello Open Space Preserve is a wonderful escape to nature in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the tech industry.

Beautiful hillsides! I love when the sunlight goes through the grass and makes the hillsides look just magical.

Leave No Trace

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

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