Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve
A vast preserve with diverse trails, wildlife, and scenic views, offering a peaceful escape close to the city.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast preserve with diverse trails, wildlife, and scenic views, offering a peaceful escape close to the city.
"One of the best outdoor spots in the Bay Area for hiking, running, or just getting some fresh air."
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Weekend parking fills up fast! Aim for before 8 AM or be prepared to circle.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails vary from paved to dirt; good walking or hiking shoes are recommended.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Deer Hollow Farm
Lower Meadow Trail
A charming, accessible farm with farm animals, perfect for families and a gentle introduction to the preserve.
Vista Point Views
Hill trails
Panoramic South Bay vistas, offering stunning scenery and a rewarding destination after a hike.
Wildlife Encounters
Various trails
Keep an eye out for deer, wild turkeys, rabbits, and numerous bird species in their natural habitat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Timing is Key
Trail Variety for Everyone
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Weekend parking fills up fast! Aim for before 8 AM or be prepared to circle.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails vary from paved to dirt; good walking or hiking shoes are recommended.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated, especially on exposed trails. Picnic areas are available.
🐶 No Dogs on Farm Trail
Dogs are not permitted on the trail leading to Deer Hollow Farm.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Weekend parking fills up fast! Aim for before 8 AM or be prepared to circle.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails vary from paved to dirt; good walking or hiking shoes are recommended.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated, especially on exposed trails. Picnic areas are available.
🐶 No Dogs on Farm Trail
Dogs are not permitted on the trail leading to Deer Hollow Farm.
🗺️ Grab a Trail Map
Maps are available at Trailhead Parking Lot 1 for easy navigation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve is lauded as a top Bay Area outdoor spot, praised for its well-maintained trails suitable for all levels and its abundant greenery. Visitors enjoy frequent deer sightings and the peaceful atmosphere, with Deer Hollow Farm being a particular hit for families. The main drawback is the challenging parking situation on weekends, often requiring an early arrival.
"Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve Review:
Rancho San Antonio is one of the best outdoor spots in the Bay Area for hiking, running, or just getting some fresh air. The trails are super well-maintained and range from easy walks to more challenging hikes, so there’s something for everyone. The park is full of greenery, open meadows, and shaded forest paths — it’s hard to believe it’s so close to the city. Deer sightings are common, and the sounds of birds make it even more peaceful. The trail to Deer Hollow Farm is a nice bonus, especially if you’re with family or kids. Parking can get tight on weekends, so it’s best to come early in the morning. Overall, it’s a perfect spot to unwind, recharge, and enjoy nature without driving too far.
Rancho San Antonio Vista Point Review:
The Vista Point is the highlight of the preserve — the view from the top is absolutely stunning. You can see the entire South Bay stretching out below, and on a clear day, even the skyline of San Francisco in the distance. It’s a bit of a climb to get there, but the scenery makes every step worth it. Ideal spot for photos, quiet reflection, or a mid-hike break with a view!"
ajaz
"Just beyond the entrance of the park, while driving, there is a special place for flying model airplanes. Lots of enthusiastic model airplane owners go there seven days a week, fly their sleek and expensive, model airplanes. It's a great place to meet new friends and exchange ideas. You can kick back and watch them for hours (and get a suntan while you're at it!) I take a nice hike and then watch them while eating lunch or an afternoon snack with refreshments. Kids love it and adults put in lots of quality time talking to their friends, while enjoying their hobby."
elisaiah1
"Lots of great trails to pick from in this park and it's free to visit. Maps are available at the trailhead in Parking Lot 1. All the trails are well maintained and clearly signed. Lower trails tend to be hotter and exposed. Most of the trails in the hills have plenty of shade. Pay a visit to the farm to see the goats, sheep, pigs and chickens. Or if you're lucky, see some of the wild deer, turkeys and squirrels that roam the park. Great spot."
Helen Marquis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The preserve is located near the intersection of I-280 and Foothill Expressway in Cupertino, CA. There are multiple parking lots, with Lot 1 being a common starting point for many trails.
While direct public transport to the preserve entrance might be limited, you can check local transit options for routes that get you close to the Cupertino or Los Altos areas, followed by a short walk or ride-share.
There are several parking lots available, and parking is generally free. However, parking can be extremely limited on weekends and holidays, so arriving early is highly recommended.
Yes, biking is a popular activity here. Many trails are suitable for cycling, including the Lower Meadow Trail to the Farm Bypass Loop.
The trail to Deer Hollow Farm is an easy, flat, and paved path that is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve is free. There is no entry fee for the preserve itself.
The preserve is open daily from 8 AM to 4 PM, though specific facilities like Deer Hollow Farm may have slightly different hours. Always check for any seasonal changes.
No advance booking is required as the preserve is free to enter. However, if you plan to use picnic facilities, it's first-come, first-served.
Occasionally, special events are held at the preserve or Deer Hollow Farm. Check the official county parks website for any upcoming events.
Trail maps are typically available at the trailhead in Parking Lot 1. You can also find them online on the Santa Clara County Parks website.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The preserve offers a diverse range of trails, from easy, flat paths suitable for families and strollers to more challenging, shaded hikes in the hills. There are over 10 trails to choose from. +1
Visitors frequently spot deer, wild turkeys, rabbits, and various bird species. Keep an eye out during your hike! +1
Yes, there are picnic areas with tables available, including some with barbecue facilities. These are often located near parking areas.
Deer Hollow Farm is a working farm where you can see goats, sheep, pigs, chickens, and other farm animals. It's a popular spot for families and is about a mile from the main trailhead.
Restroom facilities are available at the preserve, typically located near the main parking areas and at Deer Hollow Farm.
📸 📸 Photography Spots
The Vista Point offers stunning panoramic views of the South Bay. The rolling hills, meadows, and shaded trails also provide beautiful backdrops, especially during wildflower season.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a golden glow. The fog can also create dramatic and moody shots.
Yes, with patience and a good zoom lens, you can capture photos of the deer, turkeys, and birds. Remember to maintain a safe distance and respect their space.
The Vista Point is the prime location for expansive landscape shots. Other higher elevation trails also provide excellent vantage points.
Nature photography, landscape photography, and wildlife photography are all popular. The changing seasons also offer unique photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
This path is stroller and wheelchair accessible, making it convenient for all ages. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the designated areas, and keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife like deer and turkeys that roam the preserve. Beyond the farm, choose shorter, less strenuous trails for little legs. The open meadows offer space to run, and the variety of sights and sounds will keep children engaged. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, and be aware that parking can be challenging on weekends, so an early start is highly recommended.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Nature lovers will appreciate the frequent wildlife sightings, including deer, turkeys, and numerous bird species.
+1 Consider bringing binoculars for a closer look. The preserve is a great spot for birdwatching and observing local flora and fauna. Remember to check trail conditions, especially after rain, and always carry water and snacks for longer excursions. 📸 Photographers
Wildlife photography is also a highlight, with frequent sightings of deer and birds.
+1 The golden hour light in the morning and late afternoon enhances the visual appeal. Don't miss the chance to capture the unique atmosphere created by the occasional fog. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails
+1For those seeking more of a challenge, the preserve offers numerous hill trails that wind through oak woodlands and open grasslands. These routes provide more strenuous climbs and rewarding panoramic views, particularly from the Vista Point. Many of these trails offer ample shade, making them more comfortable during warmer months. It's advisable to grab a trail map from Parking Lot 1 to plan your route effectively, as trails can vary significantly in length and difficulty.
Wildlife sightings are common across many trails, with deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species frequently observed. Hikers are advised to be aware of their surroundings, especially regarding animal droppings on some paths.
+1A Day at Deer Hollow Farm
The farm is open daily from 8 AM to 4 PM and offers a chance to see a variety of farm animals, including goats, sheep, pigs, and chickens. This area is a fantastic educational opportunity for children to learn about farm life. While the farm itself is a highlight, it's important to note that dogs are not permitted on the trail leading to the farm to ensure the well-being of the animals.
The farm area also provides a pleasant spot for a picnic, with tables available for visitors to enjoy their meals amidst a charming rural setting. Beyond the farm animals, the surrounding meadows and trails offer opportunities to spot local wildlife like deer and wild turkeys, adding to the overall nature experience.
Photography Opportunities
For wildlife photography, patience is key. Keep an eye out for the resident deer, often seen grazing in the meadows, as well as wild turkeys and a variety of bird species. Early morning and late afternoon light, often referred to as the 'golden hour,' offers the most flattering light for both landscapes and wildlife.
+1 The fog that sometimes rolls in can also add a dramatic and ethereal quality to photographs, particularly on the higher trails. Remember to bring appropriate gear, such as a zoom lens for wildlife and a wide-angle lens for landscapes. Always maintain a respectful distance from wildlife and be mindful of trail conditions, especially after rain.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit