Editor’s note: This story, which appeared in our Aug. 30 edition of “Bay Area Outdoors,” went to press before wildfires began sweeping through Bay Area counties. Some outings on this bucket list are great to do now; others may need to wait until the smoky air clears.
The Bay Area’s most populous — and most overlooked — county may not have the surfing of Santa Cruz or the city views of Oakland and San Francisco, but there are big-time outdoor opportunities in Santa Clara County.
The South Bay has top-notch mountain and road biking routes, with beautiful views to keep you pushing to the end of your trail. And if water sports are more your thing, there are plenty of options away from the crashing ocean waves.
Best yet, it’s all close by.
Bike The Climb, stay for the views
Head up Mount Hamilton: This ride is tough, and the road is winding, without much shade, but the vista at the end? So worth the effort. There are multiple paths to the summit, but the main ascent on the peak’s west side is a slow, 18-mile climb. The Climb. You’ll arrive at the Lick Observatory, which began operations in 1888 and is owned by the University of California.
The observatory’s interior is closed during the pandemic shutdown, but that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying one hell of a panoramic view from the highest point of the Bay Area proper. Find details at http://bestrides.org/mt-hamilton.
Classic hike with a San Jose vista
Day hike Almaden Quicksilver: Hikers have flocked to Almaden Quicksilver County Park during the pandemic, seeking a little slice of fresh air just a short drive from downtown San Jose.
It feels silly parking your car right in front of some cookie-cutter suburban house when you’re headed on a day hike, but you’ll forget about the subdivision by the time you reach the trailhead and start exploring the various loops and trails. If you’re lucky, you might glimpse a deer or two — and I swear I’ve seen San Francisco off in the distance from Mine Hill Trail. Details: www.sccgov.org/sites/parks.
Hike in and fish for bass
Get hooked at Stevens Creek Reservoir: Working on your patience during the pandemic? Try your hand at shoreline fishing at this Cupertino park. Bass anglers and crappie and bluegill fans can find success from the shore; catfish lurk ready for your lure in the depths of the reservoir,
This county park is more than just a reservoir. It boasts more than nine miles of trails for hikers and bikers, and the park’s website (www.sccgov.org/sites/parks) touts its equestrian bonafides.
Slow your pace at Japanese-style garden
Stroll Hakone Gardens: We could all use a bit of tranquility right now. Visit the peaceful Hakone Gardens in Saratoga to lighten your load after a long week and walk among the hydrangeas and silk trees, both in bloom.
One of the oldest Japanese-style gardens in the Western Hemisphere, Hakone (http://hakone.com) was founded in Saratoga more than a century ago. The auditory sensations of the garden’s waterfalls and koi ponds pair with the striking beauty of traditional Japanese garden plants to take you to another place and time.
(And during non-COVID times, you can bring a picnic basket and enjoy lunch inside the garden’s calming confines.)
Mountain-biking haven with scenic views
Cycle the Saratoga Gap: Head up toward the Santa Cruz Mountains to get your blood pumping as you hit the Saratoga Gap single track on your mountain bike. Under the canopy of the mountain pines, this trail offers a variety of terrain, from steep climbs and descents to rocky, rooty technical sections. Along the way, you’ll encounter several jaw-dropping views of mountain ridges and coast, particularly on a clear day.
At just under 10 miles, the ride is fairly short, but it’s well worth exploring for its combination of natural beauty and excellent trail. Find maps and details at https://bayarearides.com/rides/saratogagap/.