Coyote Creek Trail
If you and your furry friend are looking for a scenic spot to stretch your legs in the San Jose, CA area, look no fur-ther than the Coyote Creek Trail! This pawesome parkway runs for nearly twenty miles from Highway 237 to Anderson County Park in Morgan Hill. The trail isn’t entirely connected, however -- one running for a mile-and-a-half from the highway to the Montague Expressway, one half-mile stretch in Selma Olinder Park, and a full seventeen miles from Tully Road to Morgan Hill. You’ll find free parking at all trailheads, though capacity varies, and it’s best to get there early on weekends no matter your starting point. The trail is pretty pawpular with local pups and their people, so those seeking solitude should probably search elsewhere, but Fido might make some new friends!
Coyote Creek Trail is a much more scenic route than you might reasonably expect from a trail that runs through so many miles of suburbia. The trail hugs the creek for most of its length, and you can expect to see some gorgeous wildflowers in spring. You and your canine companion will also cross over some rustic wooden bridges, pass through pretty, well-maintained parkland, and you might even spot some deer! Continue on to Anderson County Park afterward and you and your pooch can picnic by the beautiful Anderson Lake.
Coyote Creek Trail rates pretty well in terms of accessibility. The entire stretch from Tully Rd to Morgan Hill is paved, and the path is more than wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair or even a stroller! There are some gradual inclines, but barring serious mobility issues, a trip on this trail should suit laid-back lapdogs and four-pawed fitness freaks alike. In terms of facilities, you’ll find restrooms in the parks and dotted along the trail, but you’ll need to bring your own water. One more tip -- if your buddy has trouble with crowds, its best to look up an event calendar before you go, as the route is something of a favorite of race runners. Remember to bring waste bags with you, and have a furrific time on the trail!
