Canyon View Trail

In the Sunol Regional Wilderness, you'll find an out-and-back trail with furrific scenery when you hike the Canyon View Trail. This moderately challenging dirt pathway is about 2.4 miles one-way, and it tracks with Alameda Creek in Little Yosemite. You're likely to have company out here, especially if you come on the weekends. The best times to come here are in the winter and spring when it's not too hot to hike.

Starting from the parking lot at the intersection of Geary Road and Hayfield Road, you'll climb a hill and pass through a cattle gate to get your first view of the canyon. As you hike along the narrow dirt track, pause often to take in the stunning sights around you. After following Indian Joe Creek for a bit, the pathway will head through the rolling hills of Jacob's Valley on the way to Little Yosemite. Pass by stands of oak trees and rocky outcrops. Here, the route skirts along a ridge with a steep dropoff to the gorge below. Before it intersects with Cerro Este Road, the trail descends from the ridgeline to a level area. Return the way you came or take Ohlone Road back through the gorge from here to form a loop. 

There are no water stations in the park, so plan to bring your refreshments for you and your pooch. Furry friends are a welcome sight here if they're secure on a lead. Collect and pack out your special pal's messes. 

Pawtastic landscapes abound when you hike the Canyon View Trail. Walk along the dramatic rock walls of Little Yosemite Gorge. Out here, you'll see a variety of birds in the trees and some beautiful butterflies flitting among the colorful wildflowers. With a few steep spots and a chance to scramble over boulders, you're in for a good workout on this pathway.