Los Altos, California

Looking for the best hiking in Los Altos? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Los Altos. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.

Top Hiking Spots in and near Los Altos

  • Pescadero, California

    Little Butano Creek Trail

    2.2 mi / 341 ft gain
    This short hike follows Little Butano Creek through a lush redwood forest. The trail crosses the creek multiple times as you walk over redwood pine needles and through pockets of ferns. Dogs can join on this trail, but must be on leash. To get back to your car, continue the loop along Butano Cre...
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  • San Jose, California

    North Rim Trail to Eagle Rock

    5.0
    1.94 mi / 240 ft gain
    North Rim Trail to Eagle Rock is an out-and-back trail that takes you past scenic surroundings located near San Jose, California.
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  • Cowell Ranch Beach Access, California

    Cowell Ranch Beach

    5.0
    1.14 mi / 39 ft gain
    Hike half a mile to this beautiful, secluded beach.  There are high cliffs with a steep staircase down to the beach.  The beach has wonderful rock formations on one side.  It is a great place to watch the sunset or bring a picnic.  A great place for a beach day if you are looking for something le...
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  • Half Moon Bay, California

    Hike the Cowell-Purisma Trail

    5.0
    7 mi / 400 ft gain
    This is a popular trail that has beach access to Cowell Ranch Beach.  Along the trail, there is a steep staircase that goes down to the beach.  The trail also features fields, a bridge, and beautiful views of California's rugged coastline.  This trail is paved in some parts, and can also be biked...
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  • San Jose, California

    Senador Mine & Guadalupe Loop

    4.3
    4.83 mi / 863 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 bi...
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  • Pescadero, California

    Año Nuevo and Goat Trail Loop

    4.0
    3.76 mi / 761 ft gain
    This steep and winding trail takes you to the top of a ridge where you can see the Pacific coastline and the redwoods piercing through the forest canopy. To do this trail connect the Ano Nuevo Trail, Olmo Fire Road, Goat Trail and the Six Bridges Trail. If you don't have all day to do the Canyon ...
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  • Pescadero, California

    Canyon Rim Route

    5.0
    8.94 mi / 2070 ft gain
    Located deep within the Santa Cruz Mountains, Butano State Park boasts a large redwood canyon with many miles of hiking trails as well as campsites. This state park is one of the quietest and least visited parks on the peninsula making a perfect place to escape the hustle of the Bay Area  Butano...
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  • Sunol, California

    Little Yosemite via Ohlone Road

    5.0
    2.17 mi / 207 ft gain
    Little Yosemite via Ohlone Road is an out-and-back trail that is good for all skill levels located near Sunol, California. The trail follows Alamdeda Creek along a wide gravel road with hills offering up better views of the creek at times.  Keep in mind this trail is very exposed and can get hot...
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  • Sunol, California

    Little Yosemite via Canyon View Trail

    3.9
    3.01 mi / 705 ft gain
    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...
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  • Half Moon Bay, California

    Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail

    4.6
    5.51 mi / 220 ft gain
    Start at the visitor center along Kelly Avenue. Take note that the day parking fee is $10 in 2024 for each vehicle. You will then be able to enjoy both the Coastside Trail and Francis Beach (plus other beaches) with access to the amenities such as coin-operated showers and a semi-private beach. ...
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  • Burlingame, California

    Bayside Park to Robert E Woolley State Park Loop

    4.5
    2.06 mi / 20 ft gain
    Bayside Park to Robert E Woolley State Park Loop is a loop trail that takes you past scenic surroundings located near Burlingame, California.
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  • Burlingame, California

    Mills Canyon Nature Area Trail Loop

    4.0
    1.45 mi / 331 ft gain
    Nestled within Burlingame, California, the Mills Canyon Nature Area Trail Loop offers hikers a serene escape into nature. This approximately 1.5-mile loop meanders through diverse landscapes, including mixed woodlands and grasslands, providing opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying native ...
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  • Sunol, California

    Hike the Pleasanton Ridge Trail

    4.3
    6.4 mi / 1443 ft gain
    Pleasanton Ridge Trail is a 6.4 mile loop. The loop is shared by dog walkers, trail runners, hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders. From the ridge your viewpoints will include Mount Diablo and the San Francisco Bay.  This hike from the Foothills Staging Area is an excellent introduction ...
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  • Burlingame, California

    Ed Taylor Loop Trail

    4.0
    1.42 mi / 295 ft gain
    This hike can be done at any time of year. Hiking in winter and spring means that many varieties of wildflowers will be present, and the creek will have much more water. Summer and fall mean higher temperatures and drier conditions, but the hike is still a pleasant experience. Begin the hike at ...
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  • San Jose, California

    Coyote Peak & Rocky Ridge Trail Loop

    4.5
    3.8 mi / 755 ft gain
    The Santa Teresa County Park loop is perfect for wildlife viewing! Be ready to see deer, coyote, hawks, turkeys, pigs and cows. The trail is rated as moderate - be cautious with mud if you are visiting the park after a rain shower. Dogs are allowed in the park, but must be kept on leash.  There ...
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  • Millbrae, California

    Sawyer Camp Trail: San Andreas Lake to Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir

    4.0
    5.35 mi / 354 ft gain
    Sawyer Camp Trail: San Andreas Lake to Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir is an out-and-back trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Millbrae, California.
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