Outbound Collective logo

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

Read More

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app
Download GPX File

Features

Photography
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Groups
Scenic

Mission Peak via Hidden Valley Trail Reviews

Great hike. I totally recommend starting as early as possible. Check the time when the sun rises and give yourself about two hours to hike.. It's three miles uphill and you might need to take a few water breaks. Bring a few flashlights and plenty of water. Then once you get to the top sit down on a rock and enjoy the beautiful view. Not only will you catch a great view but you will beat the crowd and the heat of the sun!

The first time I hiked this mountain was in the darkness of night. Luckily, there was enough moonlight to pierce the fog around us where we didn't need flashlights. My college friends and I wanted to reach the top before sunrise. Once we did, the view was amazing. We stood there above this blanket of clouds watching as the sun peaked from underneath. I would definitely advise coming here early because the trail from start to end has no shade whatsoever. Not only that, this is a popular trail, so there will be a lot of traffic. The trails, though barren and stiff, are very wide to accommodate the amount everyone.

I've done this hike at least 20 times last year. In the warmer months, I highly recommend going as early as possible (630am) I've made the mistake of going around 10/11am and would feel the intensity of the sun. If you're coming here and expecting it to be a breeze, think again. I've brought plenty of people with me for their first time and it's always a struggle for them. However, the view is worth it and accomplishing such a strenuous hike feels awesome. Pack plenty of water, a snack to enjoy once you reach the top (apples/bananas/carb), sunblock, hat/visor, light jacket as it can be pretty windy at the top. Of course depending on the weather it can be pretty gloomy/foggy. I've gone when it was raining a couple of times and you do slide, so take your time if you decide to go on a rainy day.

Leave No Trace

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

Nearby

Little Yosemite via Canyon View Trail

Lake Elizabeth Loop

Catch a Sunset at Alviso Marina County Park

Hike the Pleasanton Ridge Trail

North Rim Trail to Eagle Rock

Courdet Trail and Schuhart Trail