Lexington Reservoir County Park (Closed Area)
Lexington Reservoir County Park (Closed Area)
The best MTB trails in Lexington Reservoir County Park (Closed Area)
4.7
(111)
678
riders
37
rides
Mountain biking in Lexington Reservoir County Park (Closed Area) offers diverse terrain within the Santa Cruz Mountains. The area features rolling hills, shaded oak woodlands, and chaparral slopes, providing a varied backdrop for rides. A central feature is the 338-acre Lexington Reservoir, with trails often connecting to its scenic shoreline. The park is part of a larger interconnected trail system, extending into adjacent open spaces and offering extensive riding opportunities.
Best mountain bike trails in Lexington Reservoir County Park (Closedβ¦
Last updated: October 5, 2026
5.0
(1)
31
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(17)
40
riders
34.8km
03:24
800m
800m
The Bay Area Ridge Trail: Sanborn to Saratoga Gap offers a fantastic mountain biking adventure through varied terrain, from dense redwood forests to open viewpoints. You'll navigate predominantly singletrack paths,β¦
4.8
(38)
72
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
28
riders
24.2km
02:23
720m
720m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
22
riders
28.3km
02:44
860m
860m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Lexington Reservoir County Park (Closed Area)
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Tips from the Community
This is not a very exciting trail to hike. Itβs pretty much a trail surrounded by thick walls of vegetation, with almost no opportunity to view your surroundings. The trail is 70% rocks/gravel, and 30% hard packed clay, so avoid wearing snickers
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This non-profit organization was founded in 1968 in an effort to preserve the history of the steam locomotive and commemorate the life of Billy Jones.
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The Lake Ranch Reservoir is nice and peaceful to run, walk, hike, or bike along. There is a picnic table on the north side of the pond that you could rest at. Since the water is in a small valley, you may want to bring bug spray in the spring/summer months.
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From here, you get a great view of the forest and valley, with the Santa Clara Mountains in the background. Itβs a nice spot to stop for a picnic and take in the scenery. The trail continues upward, but this spot is perfect if youβre just looking for a good viewpoint.
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Forbes Mill Museum, housed in a two-story building of the original 1854 flour mill, offers a glimpse into Los Gatos' history. Built by James Alexander Forbes as California's first commercial flour mill, over the years, it served various roles, including a power plant and a PG&E substation. Saved from demolition in 1982, the building now features historical exhibits as part of New Museum Los Gatos.
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From the top of the dam you get splendid views out across Lexington Reservoir. To the north you overlook the winding end of the Los Gatos Creek Trail, which connects to the Jones Trail across from the restroom just up the road. The dam itself was constructed in 1952 and stands at nearly 200 feet tall.
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The Kennedy Road Sierra Azul Trailhead has a small parking area that fits about three cars, depending on size, and offers a shaded starting point. A portable toilet is available at the trailhead, and additional parking can be found at the top of Top of the Hill Road.
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The Peak is a 3,005-foot mountain in Santa Clara County. The high point is marked by a large mossy rock, a short distance away from the end of the trail. This is a great, challenging summit for any mountain biker.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any restrictions or closed areas for mountain biking in Lexington Reservoir County Park?
While there is a designated 'Closed Area' within Lexington Reservoir County Park (west of Highway 17, between Beardsley and Montevina Roads) that is currently inaccessible to the public, the trails highlighted in this guide are located in the open and accessible sections of the park or adjacent interconnected open spaces. Future plans aim to open the currently closed area for recreational use.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails around Lexington Reservoir?
The trails around Lexington Reservoir County Park offer diverse terrain within the Santa Cruz Mountains. You'll encounter rolling hills, shaded oak woodlands, and chaparral slopes. Many routes feature scenic views of the 338-acre Lexington Reservoir and connect to a larger network of trails extending into adjacent open spaces like St. Joseph's Hill and Sierra Azul Open Space Preserves.
How many mountain bike trails are available in the Lexington Reservoir area?
There are over 40 mountain bike routes available in the Lexington Reservoir area, offering a wide range of experiences. These include 8 easy trails, 18 moderate trails, and 14 difficult trails, catering to various skill levels.
Are there any easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there are several easy trails. For a more relaxed ride, consider the Camden Ponds β Vasona Reservoir loop from Los Gatos. This route is 12.5 km long with minimal elevation gain, making it a good option for families or those looking for a less strenuous ride.
What are some challenging mountain bike routes for experienced riders?
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the area offers 14 difficult trails. Routes like the James J. Lenihan Dam β Los Gatos Creek Trail loop from Lexington Reservoir County Park, while rated moderate, features significant climbs and rewarding views. Many interconnected trails in the broader Santa Cruz Mountains also provide extensive riding opportunities with considerable elevation gains.
What are the best viewpoints or landmarks to see along the mountain bike trails?
Many trails offer splendid vistas. You can enjoy panoramic views across the Lexington Reservoir from the top of the James J. Lenihan Dam. Higher elevations within the interconnected trail system provide views of Mount Umunhum, the Santa Clara Valley, and the Inner and Outer Coast Ranges. The park also includes a section of the San Andreas Fault south of the reservoir's upstream end.
Is Lexington Reservoir County Park dog-friendly for mountain biking?
Lexington Reservoir County Park generally allows dogs on trails, but they must be kept on a leash. It's always a good idea to check the specific regulations for each trail or open space you plan to visit, as rules can vary in interconnected areas like St. Joseph's Hill or Sierra Azul Open Space Preserves.
What is the best time of year to go mountain biking in this area?
The Santa Cruz Mountains, where Lexington Reservoir County Park is located, generally offer pleasant riding conditions for much of the year. Spring and fall often provide the most comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summers can be warm, so early morning rides are recommended, while winters can bring rain, affecting trail conditions.
Are there any loop trails for mountain biking in the Lexington Reservoir area?
Yes, there are several excellent loop trails. A popular option is the James J. Lenihan Dam β Los Gatos Creek Trail loop from Lexington Reservoir County Park, which is 23.7 km long. Another well-regarded loop is the Los Gatos Creek Trail β Camden Ponds loop from Lexington Reservoir County Park, covering 38.3 km.
What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Lexington Reservoir County Park?
The mountain bike routes in the Lexington Reservoir area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 70 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, rewarding views, and the extensive network of interconnected trails that offer varied scenery and challenges.
Are permits required for mountain biking in Lexington Reservoir County Park?
Generally, permits are not required for mountain biking on the main trails within Lexington Reservoir County Park. However, it's always advisable to check the official Santa Clara County Parks website for any specific or updated regulations, especially if you plan to venture into adjacent open space preserves which might have different rules.
Where can I find parking for mountain biking near Lexington Reservoir?
Lexington Reservoir County Park offers various parking areas. The Los Gatos Creek Trail, which leads towards the reservoir and connects to many mountain biking routes, has accessible parking. Specific parking availability can vary, so it's recommended to check park maps or local resources for the most convenient access points depending on your chosen starting trail.
Most popular routes in Lexington Reservoir County Park (Closed Area)
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