San Jose is a recognized national leader in trail development. In 2009, Prevention Magazine identified San Jose as the nation’s 19th best walking city, finding that the city had more walking and hiking trails than any other city surveyed in its 100 city evaluation. San Jose’s Green Vision and Greenprint define a 100-mile trail network that will offer nearby access for residents in every neighborhood. The trail network is already 53 miles in length across 24 unique trail systems. Visit the Trail Program webpage for more information about our trails’ awards and recognition.
San Jose has 300 days of sunshine annually, a mild climate, and level terrain. Here are some tips to help you start enjoying San Jose’s trails.
Tip 1: Finding Trails in District 8
The East San Jose and Evergreen areas have more existing and planned trail systems than any other council district in the City. Ten trail systems offer unique and nearby recreational experiences for persons of all ages. Trails can be found along Evergreen Creek, Fowler Creek, Lake Cunningham, Montgomery Hill, Upper Silver Creek, Silver Creek Valley, Thompson Creek and Yerba Buena Creek.
Further development is planned along many of these existing systems, and work has yet to get underway to develop extension to the Barberry Lane Pathway and Lower Silver Creek Trail systems so that they extend into District 8.
Tip 2: Be safe, follow the rules
Trails are open one hour before sunrise and one hour after sunset. Most trails are relatively narrow and typically 12’ wide. Please exercise courtesy as you pass other trail users and follow a few straightforward rules to make your hike more enjoyable.
Tip 3: Commute regularly with regular “traffic reports”
On occasion, a trail will be closed for temporary repair or impacted by a special event. If you commute regularly, you’ll want to get the latest information before leaving home. Visit the Trail Program’s “closures & traffic” page for the latest trail conditions.
Tip 4: Stay up to date
Each year, City staff is working on the study, planning, design and construction of new trail projects. This effort is leading to construction of 3 miles of new or upgraded trails each year. An annual report is prepared at the end of every fiscal year (June 30) providing an overview of major projects underway.
Tip 5: Volunteering
Everybody needs a helping hand. San Jose’s trails are along waterways and within landscaped corridors. We depend on support from the community to keep these area’s clear of trash and weed-free. A full range of volunteer activities are available with training and recognition.
Tip 6: A great place for kids
San Jose’s trails offer a wonderful resource for children to enjoy open space and view natural habitats. They also provide a learning opportunity. Interpretive signs are installed along trails throughout the City, with more added every year. This collection of beautifully-composed signs educate about the City’s history, wildlife, native cultures, and the waterways. The majority of signs are along the Guadalupe River Trail, but watch for signs in District 8 as the trails are further developed. |
