Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve
Experience rolling hills bursting with wildflowers and classic California backcountry beauty. A peaceful escape for hiking, biking, and nature lovers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflower season is peak!
Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve
Best Time
Wildflower season is peak!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience rolling hills bursting with wildflowers and classic California backcountry beauty. A peaceful escape for hiking, biking, and nature lovers.
"This place is a hidden gem for anyone looking to swap city noise for some nature vibes."
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Plenty of parking, including space for horse trailers. Restrooms are also on-site.
🚫 No Dogs Allowed
Enjoy a peaceful hike as this preserve is a dog-free zone. Great for wildlife viewing!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wildflower Wonderland
Throughout the preserve
Experience rolling hills bursting with vibrant wildflowers, especially in spring. A photographer's dream!
Arrowhead Loop Trail
Main loop trail
A scenic 3.9-mile loop offering stunning valley views, perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
+2
Wildlife Spotting
Open fields and hillsides
Keep an eye out for deer grazing and yellow-billed magpies. A true taste of California backcountry.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time for Wildflowers
Dog-Free Zone for Peace
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Plenty of parking, including space for horse trailers. Restrooms are also on-site.
🚫 No Dogs Allowed
Enjoy a peaceful hike as this preserve is a dog-free zone. Great for wildlife viewing!
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails are well-maintained but can be uneven. Good walking shoes are recommended for comfort.
☀️ Bring Sun Protection
Even on cooler days, the sun can be strong. Hats and sunscreen are a good idea.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Plenty of parking, including space for horse trailers. Restrooms are also on-site.
🚫 No Dogs Allowed
Enjoy a peaceful hike as this preserve is a dog-free zone. Great for wildlife viewing!
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails are well-maintained but can be uneven. Good walking shoes are recommended for comfort.
☀️ Bring Sun Protection
Even on cooler days, the sun can be strong. Hats and sunscreen are a good idea.
👃 Be Aware of Farm Smells
The preserve is downwind from cow pastures, so you might catch a farm scent.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve for its accessible trails, stunning natural beauty, and peaceful atmosphere. Many highlight the vibrant wildflowers in spring and the well-maintained paths, even after rain. The ample parking and clean restrooms are also appreciated. Some note the occasional farm smells due to nearby pastures.
"Visited twice in one week in January 2024. I really like this place - it’s easily accessible from the freeway, yet after a few minutes of hiking, you feel you’re in some classic California backcountry. Rolling hills that are turning green with the rain, with creeks flowing, and a bunch of beautiful yellow-billed magpies who seem to reside there regularly. And I spotted at least five deer grazing together on a nearby hill. I’ll be back."
David H. Gleit (Gedawei 葛大為)
"Just did a hike at Coyote Valley Open Space Reserve and wow, what a cool change of pace! This place is a hidden gem for anyone looking to swap city noise for some nature vibes. The trails here are super well-maintained. We even got caught in a bit of rain, but the path stayed clear and wasn’t slippery at all, which was a huge plus.
One thing that really stood out was how clean the restroom facilities were. It’s not something you always find in nature spots, so definitely appreciated. And if you’re driving in, no stress about parking – there’s plenty of space.
Now, heads up if you’re not into farm smells – the reserve is downwind from some cow pastures. It wasn’t a big deal for us, but if you’re sensitive to that kind of thing, just something to keep in mind.
All in all, Coyote Valley Open Space Reserve is a great spot for a hike. The views are awesome, the paths are easy to walk, and it’s just a really nice place to get some fresh air and stretch your legs. Whether you’re a regular hiker or just looking for something different to do, this place is worth a visit."
Megan Fontenot
"Very nice place to hike. The trail is about 4 miles long and very easy to hike and bike. It is also very quiet no car noises, just nature"
Daniel Palmans
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The preserve is easily accessible from the freeway. Take Highway 101 and exit towards Morgan Hill. Follow signs for the preserve, which is located at 550 Palm Ave, Morgan Hill, CA 95037.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at the main lot, including space for horse trailers.
The preserve is open 7 days a week, 365 days a year. However, it's always a good idea to check their website or Google Maps for any seasonal hour changes.
Absolutely! Biking is a popular activity here, especially on the Arrowhead Loop Trail. Ensure you follow any directional signage for bikes.
Yes, it's a fantastic option for a day trip from San Jose and the wider Bay Area, offering a quick escape into nature.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve is free. Parking is also complimentary.
Tickets are not required as the preserve is free to enter. You can visit anytime during operating hours.
The main restriction is that dogs are not allowed within the preserve to protect wildlife and ensure a peaceful environment.
You'll find restrooms, picnic tables, and benches at the trailhead, making it convenient for visitors.
Yes, the trails are generally well-maintained and remain clear even after rain, making it a great spot year-round.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Arrowhead Loop Trail is highly recommended, offering a 3.9-mile loop with beautiful views. It's suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
The terrain is generally easy to moderate, with the Arrowhead Loop being a relatively flat and easy hike, perfect for most fitness levels.
Expect rolling green hills, especially after rain, with wildflowers in spring. You'll also find open spaces and a sense of classic California backcountry.
Restrooms are available at the parking lot and trailhead. Some benches are also located along the trails for resting.
Yes, there are picnic tables available, making it a great spot for a leisurely lunch amidst nature.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The rolling hills, especially when covered in wildflowers or lush green after rain, offer stunning photographic opportunities. The Arrowhead Loop Trail provides great vantage points.
Early morning or late afternoon light (golden hour) can create beautiful, soft lighting for landscape photography.
Focus on the expansive landscapes, the vibrant colors of wildflowers (in season), and any wildlife you encounter. The contrast between the green hills and blue sky is often striking.
While not explicitly stated in the provided information, drone usage is often restricted in open space preserves to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check with the Open Space Authority directly.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife photography. A tripod can help with low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember, dogs are not allowed, so this is a great option for families who prefer a pet-free hiking environment. +1🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Peace Seekers
+1 The well-maintained trails make it easy to navigate, and the scenic views provide a calming backdrop for your solo journey. It's a perfect place for self-reflection and enjoying nature at your own pace. 🚴♀️ Cyclists and Equestrians
+2 The trail's moderate terrain and scenic beauty make it an enjoyable ride. Ensure you check for any specific directional rules for bikes, as they may vary by month. This multi-use aspect of the preserve allows different outdoor enthusiasts to share and enjoy the natural landscape. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Wildflower Spectacle
While the wildflowers are the star attraction in spring, the preserve offers beauty year-round. The lush green hills after winter rains are equally stunning, and the open spaces provide a sense of classic California backcountry.
The presence of wildlife, such as deer and magpies, adds another layer of natural wonder to the experience. Navigating the Trails
+2 It's considered an easy to moderate hike, making it accessible for families and casual walkers, as well as more experienced hikers. The trail offers gentle climbs and descents, with occasional trail posts marking mileage. Beyond hiking, the Arrowhead Loop is also popular for biking and horseback riding.
+2 It's important to note that for bikers, there might be specific directional requirements depending on the month, so always check the signage. Preserving Coyote Valley
This initiative ensures that future generations can experience the unique beauty and ecological significance of the valley. The Open Space Authority plays a crucial role in managing and protecting these valuable natural resources. By keeping the preserve open year-round and ensuring its trails are well-maintained, they provide accessible opportunities for recreation and nature appreciation.
The dog-free policy further contributes to the preservation of the local ecosystem by minimizing disturbance to wildlife. +1 This dedication to conservation allows visitors to connect with nature in a meaningful way, fostering an appreciation for the open spaces that enrich the Bay Area. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit