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Saratoga, California

For those seeking outdoor adventures, Saratoga, California offers a range of top-notch trails and activities. One must-visit is the Sanborn County Park, a scenic location with a variety of hiking trails. The Lake Ranch Reservoir Trail, for example, is a moderate difficulty trail that takes you around a beautiful reservoir. For a more challenging hike, the Skyline Trail offers steep inclines and panoramic views of the surrounding area. If you're interested in rock formations, Castle Rock State Park is a short drive away and offers unique geological features. In addition to hiking, Saratoga is home to Villa Montalvo, a historic estate with stunning gardens, art exhibits, and concerts. So, whether you prefer hiking, sightseeing, or cultural activities, Saratoga has something for everyone. The best Trails and Outdoor Activities await you in Saratoga, California.

Top Spots in and near Saratoga

  • Saratoga, California

    Hike the Seven Springs Trail Loop

    2.8 mi / 500 ft gain
    The Seven Springs loop is only one great option of several in the preserve. Starting from the Prospect Rd parking lot the loop is 2.8 miles of rolling hills in and out of the shade. Most of the trail is at least 2 person width so easy to walk with a friend or furry companion. There have been larg...
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  • Sanborn County Park, California

    Hike Sanborn County Park via the San Andreas Trail

    4.0
    4.2 mi / 1282 ft gain
    This is a moderately rated 4.2 mile trail that winds through the redwoods west of Saratoga.  It features a dirt trail with tall trees and a creek.  The hike is very tranquil and there is lot s of greenery.  There are big rocks in the creek that can you can sit on.  People often meditate here as i...
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  • Los Gatos, California

    Hike Los Gatos Trail to Jones Trail Loop

    3.8 mi / 511 ft gain
    This trail winds its way along the Los Gatos Creek and ends at the Lexington Reservoir before looping back to the start. It is 3.8 miles and makes for a great way to get exercise and relax in nature. You can hear the creek as you hike, and can even go down to it. There is a lot of green foliage t...
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  • Saratoga, California

    Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail

    4.5
    30.8 mi
    Want to experience one of the bay area's most memorable backpacking trips? We've got the details to get you out on the trail. To start the trek, drop your car at the Castle Rock State Park Parking Lot, which is located ~2.5 miles south of the junctions of Highways 35 and 9 off of Highway 35. Not...
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  • Saratoga, California

    Backpack Castle Rock State Park

    4.7
    Castle Rock Trail Camp has a different policy than other backcountry camps in the area (i.e. campsites along Skyline to the Sea). This campground is open all year and is available on a first come, first served basis. If you can, grab a spot a Frog Flat Camp. To get to the camp, park your car at t...
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  • Los Gatos, California

    Hike the Saratoga Gap Trail

    4.6
    4.7 mi
    The Saratoga Gap Trail is relatively lightly trafficked trail that is good year round, although waterfalls peak in late winter and spring. Overall, this 4.7 mile partial loop hike is moderate, with about 1000 feet in elevation change. Trailhead elevation is about 3090 feet. The featured hike desc...
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  • Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve, California

    Hike Deer Hollow Farm Trail

    4.0
    2.7 mi / 259 ft gain
    Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve has many beginner to intermediate hiking trails.  Deer Hollow Farm Trail Loop is a hiking trail for beginners, families, or anyone wanting to go on a short hike with nice views of the bay. The trail passes by a farm and deer can often be seen wandering aroun...
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  • Los Gatos, California

    Lost Mine Trail Run

    Communes, dairy, and gold. These words are not often associated with trail running, but out on Monte Bello Ridge and Black Mountain which rise high above Silicon Valley, you might just hear them uttered.From the parking area in Skyline Open Space we start our run by crossing Skyline Boulevard and...
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  • La Honda, California

    Hike Peters Creek and Long Ridge

    4.0
    5.7 mi
    From the parking lot, take the connector trail towards the Peters Creek Trail for 0.4 miles. As you descend into a small valley, notice the sound of running water that appears. When you reach the first trail intersection, turn left on the Peters Creek trail. This will give you your first encounte...
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  • San Jose, California

    Hike the Quicksilver Trail

    4.3
    5.1 mi / 915 ft gain
    The trails are well maintained and offer good visibility. The trail can be muddy after it rains, and does not have much shade (so bring extra water in the summer).  Dogs are allowed on this trail but must be kept on leash. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife - this trail is frequently used for bir...
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  • Santa Clara County, California

    Black Mountain via Rhus Ridge Trail

    9.75 mi / 2992 ft gain
    Just outside of Los Altos is a very long ridge of mountains, one of which is Black Mountain.  This is a very dry hike, with no tree canopy, so it can get very hot! Be aware that this can make the hike feel a lot more difficult with the sun beating down on you. Follow Rhus Ridge Trail to Black Mo...
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  • La Honda, California

    Mountain Bike Skyline Ridge Preserve

    4.0
    3.5 mi / 313 ft gain
    There are a bunch of beginner to intermediate mountain biking trails at Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve (click here for a trail map).  There are some beginner mountain biking classes that come here to learn. You can find specific trails that match your ability at MTB Project.   There is a Chris...
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  • Los Altos, California

    Hike to Black Mountain and Stevens Creek Canyon

    4.0
    6 mi / 950 ft gain
    This hike can be done during any season, but for the creek to be running and for more comfortable temperatures, it is best to go on a cool winter or spring day. Starting at the preserve parking lot, take the Stevens Creek nature trail, allowing you to witness spectacular views of a large, foreste...
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  • Los Altos, California

    Hike the Monte Bello Open Space Preserve Loop

    4.5
    2.9 mi / 600 ft gain
    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...
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  • Redwood City, California

    Hike Russian Ridge

    4.5
    4 mi
    Russian Ridge offers a great place to jump on the trail and in the right season, see some of the best wildflowers blooming. On top of that, you get access to amazing views from the ridge. Once you hit your parking space, add a little extra warm up before jumping on the trail to make this 3.7-mil...
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  • La Honda, California

    Hike through Portola Redwoods State Park

    4.8
    7 mi
    Like redwood hikes? We do too, they're always very scenic and take you away from the hustle and bustle of the bay area. Not to mention, they also stay cool during the summer months. If you want a hike in the middle of the peninsula, this is a great bet.When starting this hike, head out from headq...
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Camping and Lodging in Saratoga

Santa Cruz North / Costanoa KOA
Pescadero, California

Santa Cruz North / Costanoa KOA

Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA Holiday
La Selva Beach, California

Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA Holiday

Moss Landing KOA Express
Moss Landing, California

Moss Landing KOA Express

Salinas / Monterey KOA
Prunedale, California

Salinas / Monterey KOA

Asilomar Hotel and Conference Grounds
Pacific Grove, California

Asilomar Hotel and Conference Grounds

From $176 / night

Guides, Insights and Stories from Saratoga

The Perfect Weekend Adventure at Big Basin State Park

The Perfect Weekend Adventure at Big Basin State Park

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10 Great Places To See Wildlife Near Santa Cruz

10 Great Places To See Wildlife Near Santa Cruz

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4 Ways to Stay in Santa Cruz, California

4 Ways to Stay in Santa Cruz, California

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3 Ways to Fuel Your Days in Santa Cruz, California

3 Ways to Fuel Your Days in Santa Cruz, California

Sara Sheehy