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  • Mount Hamilton, California

    Mount Hamilton in California offers some of the best trails and outdoor activities for those seeking scenic outdoor adventures. One must-visit is the Grant Ranch County Park, a sprawling area with a network of trails that takes you through rolling hills and pastures. The park is known for its unique rock formations and a peaceful lake, making it a top spot for hiking, picnicking, and fishing. The Mount Hamilton Observatory is another top attraction, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. For a challenging hike, tackle the Copernicus Peak Trail, the highest point in the park. This trail offers panoramic views and a glimpse of the region's diverse flora and fauna. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, Mount Hamilton offers an array of outdoor activities to suit all preferences.

    Top Spots in and near Mount Hamilton

    • Mount Hamilton, California

      Stargaze at Lick Observatory

      3.8
      Hop on Road 130 heading out of San Jose and follow the winding two lane road up, up, up to to the top of Mt. Hamilton and the Lick Observatory. There are lots of deer, wild turkey, and pigs in the area. If you are lucky you will get to see a herd of deer grazing in a meadow. But be careful that y...
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    • San Jose, California

      North Rim Trail to Eagle Rock

      5.0
      1.94 mi / 240 ft gain
      North Rim Trail to Eagle Rock is an out-and-back trail that takes you past scenic surroundings located near San Jose, California.
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    • San Jose, California

      Explore Santa Teresa County Park

      4.5
      8.3 mi / 2053 ft gain
      The Santa Teresa County Park loop is perfect for wildlife viewing! Be ready to see deer, coyote, hawks, turkeys, pigs and cows. The trail is rated as moderate - be cautious with mud if you are visiting the park after a rain shower. Dogs are allowed in the park, but must be kept on leash.  There i...
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    • Morgan Hill, California

      Backpack to Coit Lake

      5.0
      26 mi
      This trail can be started from Coe Headquarters or Hunting Hollow Trailhead. The trail from Coe HQ is 2 miles longer, almost all elevation but provides beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. These directions will be starting from Coe HQ.Follow the loop around the parking area to the backpa...
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    • Morgan Hill, California

      Backpack to Mississippi Lake

      5.0
      26.4 mi / 3600 ft gain
      If you're tired of trying and failing to get reservations for backcountry camping around the bay area, then Henry Coe State Park is the perfect place to visit. No reservations need to be made prior to the trip. All you need to do is get to the HQ on the morning of your trip, get your permits and ...
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    • Sunol, California

      Little Yosemite via Canyon View Trail

      4.0
      3.01 mi / 705 ft gain
      Please note this is a fragile ecosystem and watershed. There is NO swimming allowed in Alameda Creek and trespassing is prohibited on Water Department lands that are not accessible to the public. You can learn more about the restrictions and the area at ebparks.org.  After entering the kiosk you...
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    • San Jose, California

      Hike the Quicksilver Trail

      4.3
      5.1 mi / 915 ft gain
      The trails are well maintained and offer good visibility. The trail can be muddy after it rains, and does not have much shade (so bring extra water in the summer).  Dogs are allowed on this trail but must be kept on leash. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife - this trail is frequently used for bir...
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    • Livermore, California

      Hike to Murietta Falls

      4.0
      12 mi / 4175 ft gain
      Get ready for one of the toughest, lung busting hikes in the east bay with over 6-miles and 4,000ft of climbing in one direction. When you make it to the hike, it's also important to realize that without recent rain, there many not actually be a waterfall. With that said, you're still getting in ...
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    • Livermore, California

      Paddle Lake Del Valle

      4.0
      Lake Del Valle is a reservoir located in Livermore, California. The lake has boat motor boats, pedal boats, patio boats, canoes, and row boats available for rent. There is a dock and rental  house in the marina.The lake is also a popular destination for picnics, barbecues, and camping. Parking fi...
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    • Livermore, California

      Del Valle Regional Park

      4.0
      Looking for a quick summer escape filled with stand up paddling, canoeing, fishing, hiking, and picnics? Look no further than Del Valle Regional Park. Consistently considered one of the best campgrounds in the Bay Area, the centerpiece of Del Valle is a 5-mile long lake that allows swimming, fish...
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    • Fremont, California

      Mission Peak via Hidden Valley Trail

      4.2
      6.16 mi / 2116 ft gain
      Breathtaking views of the Bay Area are your reward for making this climb to the top of Mission Peak. It’s a 3-mile trek to the top of the peak and then back down the same way. This is a moderate hike that provides a nice workout – so be prepared. Park at the Stanford Avenue entrance gate. There ...
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    • Los Gatos, California

      Hike Los Gatos Trail to Jones Trail Loop

      3.8 mi / 511 ft gain
      This trail winds its way along the Los Gatos Creek and ends at the Lexington Reservoir before looping back to the start. It is 3.8 miles and makes for a great way to get exercise and relax in nature. You can hear the creek as you hike, and can even go down to it. There is a lot of green foliage t...
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    • San Jose, California

      Catch a Sunset at Alviso Marina County Park

      3.0
      9 mi / 72 ft gain
      This tranquil 20.6 acre park is open year round from 8am to sunset. It’s the gateway to the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. It is filled with boardwalks, trails, and all kinds of wildlife. I went here with the sole intent of catching a pretty sunset after a long week.  I g...
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    • Morgan Hill, California

      Uvas Canyon Waterfall Hike

      4.0
      1.5 mi
      Uvas Canyon offers up to 6-miles of hiking trails, which includes a 1.5 mile loop, which runs along Swanson Creek and passes many of the park's waterfalls. To take short loop, head North out of the parking lot to the Swanson Creek Trail. Once you find Swanson Creek Trail, you'll be on the Waterfa...
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    • Livermore, California

      Hike the East Shore Trail Loop

      3.7 mi / 1040 ft gain
      This hike is best done during the spring, fall, or winter when moderate temperatures make the hike more comfortable. Be warned that this hike has a large elevation change despite being less than 4 miles. Starting at the Arroyo Road Staging Area, take the East Shore Trail east, heading towards a s...
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    • Gilroy, California

      Redfern Pond via Hunting Hollow

      5.0
      7 mi / 1263 ft gain
      Henry W. Coe State Park, northern California's largest, provides outdoor enthusiasts with over 89,000 acres of land to explore, as well as 22,000 acres of designated wilderness area. With all of this space, the outdoor adventures are seemingly endless. We recommend a multi-day backpacking trip to...
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    Camping and Lodging in Mount Hamilton

    Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA Holiday
    La Selva Beach, California

    Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA Holiday

    Salinas / Monterey KOA
    Prunedale, California

    Salinas / Monterey KOA

    Moss Landing KOA Express
    Moss Landing, California

    Moss Landing KOA Express

    Santa Cruz North / Costanoa KOA
    Pescadero, California

    Santa Cruz North / Costanoa KOA

    Guides, Insights and Stories from Mount Hamilton

    10 Great Places To See Wildlife Near Santa Cruz

    10 Great Places To See Wildlife Near Santa Cruz

    Crystal Birns

    4 Ways to Stay in Santa Cruz, California

    4 Ways to Stay in Santa Cruz, California

    Sara Sheehy

    3 Ways to Fuel Your Days in Santa Cruz, California

    3 Ways to Fuel Your Days in Santa Cruz, California

    Sara Sheehy

    The Perfect Weekend Adventure at Big Basin State Park

    The Perfect Weekend Adventure at Big Basin State Park

    Benjamin Canevari