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Coyote Lake - Harvey Bear Ranch County Park

Top 5 Lakes in Coyote Lake - Harvey Bear Ranch County Park

Best lakes in Coyote Lake - Harvey Bear Ranch County Park are centered around Coyote Lake, also known as Coyote Reservoir, a significant man-made body of water in Santa Clara County. The park offers a network of trails suitable for various activities, including hiking, running, and biking, with options for different Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch hiking trail difficulty levels. Many of these trails are family friendly trails Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch, winding through grasslands and providing access to…

Last updated: May 13, 2026

Coyote Lake Overlook

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Coyote Lake (also known as Coyote Reservoir) was formed through the construction of a 140-foot (43 m) high, 980-foot (300 m) long, earth and rock dam in 1936. Swimming is …

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Calaveras Trail

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Calaveras Trail is a nice flat trail that runs adjacent to the Coyote Reservoir. The trail winds through grasslands with occasional trees to provide shade. The trails are well worn …

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Coyote Reservoir is a man-made lake in Santa Clara County, north of Gilroy. There are many trails in the reservoir for running, walking, and biking. The lake is also navigable from April to October.

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Coyote Reservoir is a man-made lake in Santa Clara County, north of Gilroy. There are many trails in the reservoir for running, walking, and biking. The lake is also navigable from April to October.

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Popular around Coyote Lake - Harvey Bear Ranch County Park

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Marika Abbà
January 2, 2024, View of the Coyote Reservoir

Coyote Reservoir is a man-made lake in Santa Clara County, north of Gilroy. There are many trails in the reservoir for running, walking, and biking. The lake is also navigable from April to October.

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Calaveras Trail is a nice flat trail that runs adjacent to the Coyote Reservoir. The trail winds through grasslands with occasional trees to provide shade. The trails are well worn from grazing cows meaning they are hard-packed and well defined, but still bumpy.

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Coyote Reservoir is a man-made lake in Santa Clara County, north of Gilroy. There are many trails in the reservoir for running, walking, and biking. The lake is also navigable from April to October.

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Traveler
December 20, 2016, Coyote Lake Overlook

Coyote Lake (also known as Coyote Reservoir) was formed through the construction of a 140-foot (43 m) high, 980-foot (300 m) long, earth and rock dam in 1936. Swimming is not allowed in the lake by order of the Santa Clara Valley Water District, but it's worthy of a visit for the views alone (and fishing, for those who bring pole and tackle along for the hike!).

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main attractions around Coyote Lake - Harvey Bear Ranch County Park?

The park is centered around Coyote Lake, also known as Coyote Reservoir, a significant man-made body of water. Key attractions include the Coyote Lake Overlook, offering expansive views, and the Calaveras Trail, which runs adjacent to the reservoir through grasslands.

Are there family-friendly trails around Coyote Lake?

Yes, many trails in Coyote Lake - Harvey Bear Ranch County Park are considered family-friendly. For example, the Calaveras Trail is a flat, well-worn path suitable for walking, and the area around the View of the Coyote Reservoir also features trails suitable for families.

Can I bring my dog on trails near Coyote Lake?

Yes, Coyote Lake - Harvey Bear Ranch County Park is known for its dog-friendly hikes. Trails like the Calaveras Trail are explicitly noted as dog-friendly, allowing you to explore the natural landscape with your pets.

What are the typical trail conditions around Coyote Lake?

Trails around Coyote Lake, such as the Calaveras Trail, are often well-worn and hard-packed from grazing cows. While generally well-defined, they can be bumpy in places. They wind through grasslands with occasional trees providing shade.

What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?

The park offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, running, and biking on the extensive trail network. For specific hiking routes, you can explore options in the Hiking in Coyote Lake - Harvey Bear Ranch County Park guide. Road cycling routes are also available, as detailed in the Road Cycling Routes guide.

Are there easy walking trails available?

Absolutely. Many trails are suitable for easy walking, including sections of the Calaveras Trail. For more easy options, check out the Easy hikes in Coyote Lake - Harvey Bear Ranch County Park guide, which features routes like the Harvey Bear, Willow Springs, and Townsprings Loop.

What is the best time of year to visit Coyote Lake - Harvey Bear Ranch County Park?

The lake is navigable from April to October, which suggests these months are ideal for activities on or around the water. For hiking, spring and fall often offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, though the park is accessible year-round.

Can I swim in Coyote Lake?

No, swimming is not permitted in Coyote Lake (Coyote Reservoir) by order of the Santa Clara Valley Water District. However, it is a popular spot for fishing and offers scenic views.

What kind of wildlife can I spot around Coyote Lake?

While specific wildlife is not detailed, the park's environment of grasslands and lake provides habitat for various local species. Visitors often report seeing birds and other small animals typical of a California county park setting.

Are there loop trails for hiking or biking?

Yes, there are several loop trails available. For instance, the Easy hikes in Coyote Lake - Harvey Bear Ranch County Park guide mentions the Harvey Bear, Willow Springs, and Townsprings Loop, which is an easy 6.7 km hike. Other moderate loop options are also available in the general hiking guide.

What should I bring for a hike around Coyote Lake?

Given the trails wind through grasslands with occasional shade, it's advisable to bring plenty of water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and appropriate footwear. If you plan to fish, remember to bring your pole and tackle.

Do I need permits for hiking or other activities at Coyote Lake?

The provided information does not indicate that permits are required for general hiking or biking within Coyote Lake - Harvey Bear Ranch County Park. However, it's always good practice to check the official Santa Clara County Parks website for the most current regulations before your visit.

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