Highlight • River
Cycling
4.9
(42)
Hiking
5.0
(2)
San Tomas Aquino Creek is a prominent 13.6-mile-long stream flowing through the heart of Santa Clara County, California. Originating on El Sereno Mountain within the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains, it meanders northward through several Silicon Valley cities including Saratoga, Los Gatos, Campbell, and Santa Clara. The creek eventually joins Saratoga Creek before its waters reach the Guadalupe Slough and ultimately the South San Francisco Bay, with its lower end near sea level at approximately 3 meters elevation.
What…
Tips
September 23, 2024
Cycling
January 16, 2025
Hiking
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near San Tomas Aquino Creek
4.0
(2)
4
riders
36.2km
02:03
100m
100m
5.0
(1)
75
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(5)
56
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 0 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Monday 23 March
27°C
8°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
The San Tomas Aquino/Saratoga Creek Trail offers a significant paved multi-use path that extends for about 5.45 to 12 miles, with a nearly continuous off-road section from the San Francisco Bay Trail to Homestead Road. While it's primarily an out-and-back trail, its connection to the larger San Francisco Bay Trail system allows for extended journeys and the creation of longer loop routes by combining it with other trails in the area.
The trail is known for being paved and generally flat, making it suitable for a wide range of abilities, including families with strollers and young cyclists. It offers a smooth surface, which contributes to its low difficulty level, ideal for leisurely walks, jogs, and bike rides.
Yes, the trail meanders through an urban environment, offering glimpses of Silicon Valley campuses like Nvidia and Intel, as well as Levi's Stadium, the Santa Clara Convention Center, and California's Great America amusement park. You can also find bas-relief sculptures depicting local wildlife and habitats along the creek walls, adding an artistic touch to the journey. A notable scenic point is where the SF Bay Trail crosses over the creek, providing an option to pass under Highway 237.
Parking for San Tomas Aquino Creek trail access points is available at various locations along its length. Specific parking areas are typically found near major access points in cities like Santa Clara. For public transport, visitors should check local Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) bus routes and light rail stations, as some may offer convenient access to different sections of the trail.
Absolutely! The trail is highly recommended for families. Its paved and generally flat surface makes it ideal for strollers, young children learning to cycle, and those looking for a safe and accessible outdoor activity. The urban setting with glimpses of landmarks and wildlife sculptures can also keep younger visitors engaged.
It is important for visitors to note that dogs are generally not permitted on the San Tomas Aquino Creek Trail. Please respect local regulations to ensure the preservation of the natural environment and the comfort of all trail users.
Despite its urban setting, the creek and its riparian corridors support various wildlife. Bird watching is a popular activity, with over 30 species sometimes observed. Historically, the creek supported steelhead trout and Chinook salmon, and native fish like hitch, California roach, Sacramento sucker, and three-spined stickleback have been identified in the watershed. You might also spot small mammals and other urban wildlife.
Given its passage through several cities including Santa Clara, there are numerous cafes, pubs, and accommodation options available in the vicinity of the trail. Areas near Levi's Stadium, the Santa Clara Convention Center, and other urban centers along the creek's path will offer a variety of choices for dining and lodging. It's advisable to check local listings for specific establishments near your chosen access point.
The San Tomas Aquino Creek Trail serves as an important feeder to the larger San Francisco Bay Trail system. It provides a seamless connection, allowing cyclists and hikers to extend their journeys along the Bay Trail, particularly in the section where it crosses over the creek and passes under Highway 237. This integration enables longer recreational routes and diverse exploration opportunities.
The San Tomas Aquino Creek Trail is generally enjoyable year-round due to its paved surface. During winter, the trail remains accessible, though you might encounter cooler temperatures and occasional rain. It's recommended to wear layers of clothing to adapt to changing weather, and waterproof outerwear if rain is expected. Comfortable walking or cycling shoes are always appropriate for the paved path.