Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Mountain biking
5.0
(18)
Cycling
5.0
(1)
The Los Gatos Creek Trail is a beloved multi-use recreational pathway winding through the scenic western Santa Clara County, California. This prominent trail stretches approximately 9.7 to 11.9 miles, connecting the tranquil Lexington Reservoir in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains to the vibrant city of San Jose, while also passing through the charming city of Campbell. Following the picturesque Los Gatos Creek, it offers a natural corridor amidst both urban and suburban environments, making it a vital green…
This Highlight goes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
July 9, 2015
Mountain biking
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Los Gatos Creek Trail
5.0
(1)
42
riders
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
34
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
20
riders
38.1km
03:01
740m
740m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Distance 2.81 km
Uphill 10 m
Downhill 90 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Thursday 30 April
23°C
7°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 20.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
The Los Gatos Creek Trail offers varied terrain. The southern portion, closer to Lexington Reservoir, typically features a wide dirt path with some elevation changes, making it suitable for mountain biking and hiking. As you head northward through Los Gatos and Campbell, the trail transitions to mostly flat and paved surfaces, ideal for walking, jogging, cycling, and skating.
Yes, the trail's difficulty varies by section. The southern part near Lexington Reservoir, with its dirt path and elevation changes, can be more challenging for some users, particularly cyclists or those seeking a more rugged hike. The northern, paved sections through Los Gatos and Campbell are generally flat and considered easier, making them very beginner-friendly and accessible for a wider range of activities.
The trail is rich with points of interest. It passes through several beautiful parks, including Los Gatos Creek Park, Vasona Lake County Park, and Oak Meadow Park, which offer green spaces, picnic areas, and playgrounds. Near its southern end, you'll find the historic Forbes Mill Museum, an 1854 flour mill. The trail itself also follows a former rail bed of the South Pacific Coast Railroad, offering a glimpse into its historical significance.
Absolutely! The Los Gatos Creek Trail is very family-friendly, especially the northern, paved sections which are flat and easy to navigate with strollers or young cyclists. The trail passes through parks like Vasona Lake County Park and Oak Meadow Park, which feature playgrounds and picnic areas, making them perfect spots for a family outing.
The Los Gatos Creek Trail is generally dog-friendly, but leash rules apply throughout the trail. Please ensure your dog is on a leash at all times to ensure the safety and comfort of all trail users and local wildlife. Always remember to clean up after your pet.
While direct public transport access along the entire length of the trail can vary, the trail connects to urban areas like Campbell and San Jose, which have public transport options. For specific access points, it's advisable to check local bus routes (e.g., VTA) that serve areas near the trailheads in Los Gatos, Campbell, and San Jose.
Yes, the trail's integration with local culture means it provides direct access to downtown Los Gatos. Here, you'll find a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, perfect for a refreshment stop or a meal after your activity. The city of Campbell, also along the trail, offers similar amenities.
The trail's riparian habitat along Los Gatos Creek offers opportunities for wildlife spotting. Visitors often report seeing blue herons, turtles, and various bird species. During certain seasons, you might even observe spawning salmon in the creek, adding to the natural beauty of the area.
The Los Gatos Creek Trail is immensely popular, especially on weekends and during pleasant weather. You should anticipate that it can get quite crowded, particularly on the more popular paved sections. Patience is often needed when navigating these busy times due to the wide variety of trail users.
While the Los Gatos Creek Trail is primarily a linear path, it connects to a larger network of trails and on-street bike lanes. For instance, it links to the San Francisco Bay Trail via other bike paths, offering possibilities for extended rides or creating custom loop routes by utilizing connecting streets and trails in the surrounding areas of Los Gatos, Campbell, and San Jose.
The trail is enjoyable year-round due to California's mild climate. For cycling, spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures. For wildlife viewing, especially birdwatching, spring and fall migrations can be rewarding, and observing spawning salmon would be a seasonal event, typically in late fall or early winter. Summer provides ample shade along many sections, making it comfortable for walks, while winter offers cooler, often less crowded conditions for a refreshing outing.