Valley View Preserve trails

Starting at Bald Mountain Parking Area in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve, the route follows Mount Umunhum Trail westward through mixed chaparral, knobcone pine, coast live oak, California bay, and madrone, with openings toward Santa Clara Valley and the surrounding ridges. The itinerary then passes the…

Distance: 7.5 mi • Elevation gain: 2,077 ft • Maximum elevation: 3,432 ft

From West Hills Community Church in Morgan Hill, the route leaves the neighborhood edge and joins the Open Space Authority Trail toward El Toro Open Space Preserve. It climbs through open grassland, oak woodland, and hillside switchbacks toward the prominent El Toro summit, a local landmark above the Santa…

Distance: 2.5 mi • Elevation gain: 978 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,368 ft

The Overlook Mountain hike in New York’s Catskill region is a rewarding journey blending natural beauty with historic intrigue. Hikers ascend through a steady, forested path leading to the eerie ruins of the Overlook Mountain House, an abandoned hotel whose concrete remains invite exploration and reflection.…

Distance: 4.6 mi • Elevation gain: 1,385 ft • Maximum elevation: 3,094 ft

The Grandview Rim Trail leading to Turkey Spur Rock offers a truly rewarding hike in New River Gorge National Park. Starting at the Main Overlook, the trail winds through lush forests and along the rim of the gorge, providing frequent stops to admire breathtaking views of the deep river valley below. The…

Distance: 3.4 mi • Elevation gain: 492 ft • Maximum elevation: 2,500 ft

The Mission Peak via Peak Trail offers a demanding but rewarding hike that presents remarkable panoramic views throughout the ascent. As hikers climb, they are treated to vistas of the Bay Area, including San Francisco, the East Bay hills, and distant landmarks like Mount Diablo. At the summit, the iconic…

Distance: 3.3 mi • Elevation gain: 2,028 ft • Maximum elevation: 2,464 ft

The Mount Umunhum Trail via the Guadalupe Creek Overlook offers hikers a varied and rewarding experience, showcasing a range of ecosystems from oak woodlands to chaparral scrub. Along the route, visitors are treated to expansive views of the Santa Clara Valley and surrounding mountain ranges, with notable…

Distance: 7.9 mi • Elevation gain: 1,962 ft • Maximum elevation: 3,438 ft

The Sunrise Trail offers a scenic desert hike with sweeping views of the McDowell Mountains, Superstition Mountains, Four Peaks, and the Phoenix metropolitan area. The trail begins with a steady incline through classic Sonoran Desert terrain, where hikers can observe iconic saguaro cacti, unique rock…

Distance: 3.7 mi • Elevation gain: 1,165 ft • Maximum elevation: 3,022 ft

The Reiling Dredge Loop, accessible via the B&B Mine and Minnie Mine trails, offers hikers a fascinating combination of natural beauty and historical intrigue. As you explore, you'll pass by well-preserved remnants of old mining operations, with notable structures like the Reiling Dredge boat and the ruins at…

Distance: 2.7 mi • Elevation gain: 400 ft • Maximum elevation: 10,285 ft

Distance: 5.2 mi • Elevation gain: 1,696 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,821 ft