Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve
A sprawling open space preserve with diverse trails, a charming working farm, and stunning valley views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Secure parking & fewer crowds
Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve
Best Time
Secure parking & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling open space preserve with diverse trails, a charming working farm, and stunning valley views.
"This place is the Bay Area’s hiking MVP! Pure chaos, pure fun—Rancho’s got it all!"
🚗 Beat Parking Chaos
Arrive before 7:30 AM on weekends or use the pedestrian entrance near Los Altos.
🐐 Farm Fun for All
Deer Hollow Farm is free and stroller-friendly, perfect for families. No dogs allowed!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Deer Hollow Farm
Lower Meadow Trail
A charming working farm with adorable goats, pigs, and chickens. A delightful step back in time.
Black Mountain Summit
Black Mountain Via Rhus Ridge Trail
Conquer this trail for breathtaking panoramic views of the Silicon Valley and surrounding mountains.
Wildlife Encounters
Various Trails
Keep an eye out for deer, wild turkeys, quail, and squirrels. Rare sightings of bobcats and mountain lions occur.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Parking Rush
Trail Variety & Farm Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Beat Parking Chaos
Arrive before 7:30 AM on weekends or use the pedestrian entrance near Los Altos.
🐐 Farm Fun for All
Deer Hollow Farm is free and stroller-friendly, perfect for families. No dogs allowed!
👟 Trail Shoes Recommended
Trails are well-maintained gravel/dirt. Wear comfortable shoes for varied terrain.
💧 Bring Water
Water fountains are available, but carrying extra water is wise for longer hikes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Beat Parking Chaos
Arrive before 7:30 AM on weekends or use the pedestrian entrance near Los Altos.
🐐 Farm Fun for All
Deer Hollow Farm is free and stroller-friendly, perfect for families. No dogs allowed!
👟 Trail Shoes Recommended
Trails are well-maintained gravel/dirt. Wear comfortable shoes for varied terrain.
💧 Bring Water
Water fountains are available, but carrying extra water is wise for longer hikes.
📸 Capture the Views
The summit offers stunning vistas. Don't forget your camera for wildlife and landscapes!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Rancho San Antonio is widely praised as a beautiful and diverse open space preserve, offering something for everyone from families to serious hikers. Visitors rave about the charming Deer Hollow Farm and the stunning views from the higher trails. The primary drawback consistently mentioned is the challenging parking situation on weekends, often requiring very early arrival.
"Rancho San Antonio is a hidden gem. I took the Meadow Trail loop down to the farm and back, and it was such a rewarding hike. The whole loop took me about an hour, which made it perfect for a short but scenic outing.
The trail itself is well-maintained with beautiful open views and some gentle hills, nothing too intense. Along the way, I got to see people riding horses too, which I love seeing.
The highlight was definitely the Deer Hollow Farm. It felt like stepping into a countryside storybook. The baby goats were absolutely adorable, and the whole farm had a welcoming, relaxed vibe. It’s the perfect spot to take a breather and just enjoy nature and animals up close.
This is a fantastic trail for solo hikers, families, or anyone wanting a bit of nature therapy without going too far off the grid.
Plenty of parking available. This park doesn’t allow dogs."
Dilay Sayer
"Rancho San Antonio is the Bay Area’s go-to preserve for reliable, diverse hiking and family-friendly outdoor time.
The Deer Hollow Farm Loop and Meadow Trail are popular, flat circuits ideal for families. These lead you to the historic Deer Hollow Farm — a working homestead where kids can glimpse chickens, goats, and even a cow . It’s a peaceful, educational experience away from the Silicon Valley hustle. A short walk up, the more challenging Wildcat, Black Mountain, and PG&E trails add elevation and scenic variety, offering sweeping valley views — especially from Black Mountain’s summit along Monte Bello Ridge .
Parking, however, is a known pain point. With six lots totaling over 300 spaces (plus rhus‐ridge overflow), the gates open at 8 a.m., but on weekends, lots fill fast . Tip: arrive before 7:30 a.m. on weekends—or try the pedestrian entrance under I‑280 near Los Altos via residential streets for a quick 5‑minute walk . Midpen offers live parking updates and encourages biking or ride‑hail options .
Trail conditions are well-maintained gravel or dirt, clearly marked, and shade-filled—perfect for hot weather hikes . Amenities include bathrooms and water fountains at several spots (though some users say more would be nice) . Creekside boardwalks and occasional bridges along shady trails add charm and ease of access.
Wildlife is abundant—visitors regularly spot deer, wild turkeys, quail, squirrels, and occasional bobcats or mountain lions (though rarely) . Interpretive signage, plus the farm and historical walking trails, offer both education and nature immersion. The preserve’s connectivity, linking to Monte Bello and Permanente Ridge, gives seasoned hikers the option to build longer aventuras if desired."
Chinmay S
"Overall a great place to go hiking with splendid views, and many different trails that take you through different types of scenery. There is also a very beautiful vista pointe up at the top of a hill, which overlooks a lot of the valley. Although some people call this a "hidden gem", the parking situation is horrendous, and the only way to find parking without idling in your car for half an hour is to arrive at 6 AM."
William Joy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The main entrance is at 22500 Cristo Rey Dr, Cupertino, CA 95014. You can also access it via a pedestrian entrance under I-280 near Los Altos. Many visitors drive, but parking can be challenging on weekends.
While direct public transport to the preserve is limited, you can explore options to get close and then walk or bike in. Check local transit schedules for routes serving the Cupertino or Los Altos areas.
There are six parking lots with over 300 spaces. Gates open at 8 AM. On weekends, lots fill up very quickly, so arriving early is highly recommended.
Yes, biking is a great option! The preserve has trails popular for biking, and you can also bike to the preserve itself.
Information on specific RV parking is limited, but the lots are generally spacious. It's best to check with the park management if you have a very large vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve and Deer Hollow Farm is free. Parking is also free. 
The preserve generally opens at 8 AM. Deer Hollow Farm is open daily from 8 AM to 4 PM. It's always a good idea to check the official website for any seasonal changes or special event hours.
No advance booking is required for general entry. The preserve and farm are open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis.
Dogs are not permitted in the preserve or at Deer Hollow Farm.
Yes, the farm is accessible via a relatively flat, 1-mile trail from the parking lot, which is also stroller and wheelchair accessible.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Trails range from easy, flat loops like the Meadow Trail to challenging climbs like the PG&E Trail and Black Mountain Via Rhus Ridge Trail. The Lower Meadow Trail to Farm Bypass Loop is popular and stroller-friendly.
Absolutely! The farm is a huge hit with children, and there are many kid-friendly trails. The 1-mile farm loop is perfect for little legs.
You can frequently spot deer, wild turkeys, quail, and squirrels. Keep an eye out for occasional bobcats or mountain lions, though they are rarely seen.
Restrooms and water fountains are available at several locations within the preserve, though some visitors suggest more would be beneficial.
Yes, it's a great spot for a picnic. There are open areas and scenic spots along the trails.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit of Black Mountain offers stunning panoramic views. The Deer Hollow Farm provides charming scenes with animals and rustic settings. Wildlife sightings also make for great photo opportunities.
Yes, the rolling hills, open meadows, and distant mountain ranges provide diverse landscape photography opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Deer Hollow Farm is ideal for photographing farm animals like goats, pigs, and chickens. You might also capture deer or birds in their natural habitat throughout the preserve. +1
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer glow.
Drone usage is typically restricted in open space preserves to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's best to check the official park regulations regarding drone operation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Beyond the farm, there are numerous trails suitable for family hikes. The Meadow Trail offers gentle terrain and open spaces for kids to explore. For slightly older children, the more challenging trails can provide a sense of adventure. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, and be aware that dogs are not allowed in the preserve.
🚶 Solo Hikers & Nature Lovers
The preserve is known for its serene atmosphere, especially during weekdays or early mornings. The well-maintained trails and abundant wildlife provide ample opportunities for quiet contemplation and connection with the natural world. It's an ideal spot to clear your head, enjoy some exercise, and recharge.
👟 Fitness Enthusiasts
The preserve's extensive trail network allows for customizable routes, enabling you to create longer loops or focus on specific types of terrain. The varied scenery, from open hillsides to shaded canyons, keeps the experience engaging. Remember to check the weather and bring adequate hydration, especially for longer or more intense sessions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails
For those seeking a more strenuous workout, trails like the PG&E Trail and the Black Mountain Via Rhus Ridge Trail offer significant elevation gains and rewarding panoramic views from the summit.
Trail conditions are generally good, with a mix of gravel and dirt paths. Some sections are shaded by trees, offering respite from the sun, while others are more exposed. Interpretive signage along some trails provides educational insights into the local flora, fauna, and history.
The Charm of Deer Hollow Farm
+1Visitors can observe a variety of farm animals, including goats, pigs, chickens, and cows. The farm's rustic charm and the animals' playful antics make it a delightful experience for all ages. It’s a fantastic opportunity for kids to learn about where food comes from and to interact with animals in a safe, controlled environment.
Admission to Deer Hollow Farm is free, adding to its appeal as a budget-friendly outing. Remember that dogs are not permitted at the farm or within the preserve, so plan accordingly. The farm operates daily from 8 AM to 4 PM, offering a consistent attraction within the preserve.
Wildlife Spotting Opportunities
While less common, there are occasional sightings of bobcats and mountain lions. It's important to maintain a safe distance and never approach or feed any wildlife. The preserve's diverse habitats, from open grasslands to wooded areas, support a rich array of bird species, making it a pleasant spot for birdwatching.
Interpretive signage throughout the preserve can help identify various species and provide interesting facts about their behavior and habitat. The presence of wildlife adds an element of surprise and wonder to any visit, making each hike a potentially unique experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit