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Little Yosemite via Canyon View Trail

Sunol, California

4.0/5
based on 11 reviews

Details

Distance

3.01 miles

Elevation Gain

705 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Ed Francisco

Little Yosemite in Sunol is a scenic hike offering breathtaking oak lined canyon views and dramatic waterfalls. It's a short 2 miles upstream from the visitors center and is open 8am to dusk all year long. There are camping options available as well.

Please note this is a fragile ecosystem and watershed. There is NO swimming allowed in Alameda Creek and trespassing is prohibited on Water Department lands that are not accessible to the public. You can learn more about the restrictions and the area at ebparks.org

After entering the kiosk you’ll be able to pick up a brochure with a map at the trail head. A wooden bridge leads over Alameda Creek and to the right you’ll find Canyon View Trail, which will take you to the falls. The trail narrows after the McCorkle Trail junction and you’ll notice a steep drop off to the right where you can enjoy epic views of the oak canyon. After the canyon, the trail evens out and you’ll hear the falls from Little Yosemite. Here you’ll be able climb the boulders along the gorge with cascading waterfalls. If you’d like to take a direct trail back to the entrance, there’s a wide fire road along the creek.

A permit is required to camp overnight. Gates are locked at night so campers must arrive before dusk. Guided horse rides are also available through Western Trail Riding Services.

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Features

Camping
Photography
Backpacking
Hiking
Bathrooms
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Food Nearby
Picnic Area
Scenic
Waterfall
Wildflowers
Wildlife

Little Yosemite via Canyon View Trail Reviews

Pretty cool little hike to do in the winter. Everything's green. Saw some friendly cows as well.

Awesome info, Ed. I'll check it my next trip to SF! 🙆

Did this with Lyndl on December 31st, 2014. Last hike of 2014 with a great guy and the beauty of nature surrounding us

Leave No Trace

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

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