The best hikes from bus stations in Lexington Reservoir County Park (Closed Area)

There are 16 hiking routes accessible from bus stations in the broader area of Lexington Reservoir County Park. These routes range from easy strolls to more challenging moderate hikes, offering diverse experiences for all skill levels.

Yes, several easy routes are suitable for families. For a gentle walk, consider the Forbes Mill – Forbes Mill Museum loop from Los Gatos, which is just over 5 km with minimal elevation gain. Another great option is the Lexington Reservoir – Los Gatos Creek Trail loop from Los Gatos, offering pleasant views along the reservoir and creek.

Many of the routes are designed as circular walks for convenience. For example, the Vasona Lake – Vasona Lake loop from Vasona Lake Eucalyptus Grove offers a scenic moderate loop around the lake. Another option is the Lexington Reservoir Overlook – Saint Josephs Hill summit loop from Los Gatos, which provides a rewarding circular journey with reservoir views.

The trails offer a variety of landscapes typical of the Santa Cruz Mountains. You'll encounter rolling hills, shaded oak woodlands, and sun-exposed chaparral slopes. Many routes provide scenic views of the 338-acre Lexington Reservoir and the surrounding mountains.

Yes, if you're looking for a more strenuous experience, the Lexington Reservoir Overlook – Saint Josephs Hill summit loop from Los Gatos features over 270 meters of elevation gain, offering steady climbs and expansive views. Similarly, the Villa Montalvo Lookout Point loop from Saratoga also includes significant ascents to a scenic lookout.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 158 ratings. Reviewers often praise the diverse scenery, well-maintained paths, and the beautiful views of the reservoir and surrounding hills.

While the primary attraction is the natural beauty of the reservoir and surrounding hills, some routes pass by notable spots. For instance, the Forbes Mill – Forbes Mill Museum loop takes you past the historic Forbes Mill Museum in Los Gatos. The Saint Josephs Hill summit loop offers panoramic views from the summit of Saint Joseph's Hill.

The region generally offers pleasant hiking conditions for much of the year. Spring brings wildflowers and lush greenery, while fall provides cooler temperatures and often clear skies. Summers can be warm, so early morning or late afternoon hikes are recommended. Winters are typically mild, though trails can be muddy after rain.

While popular areas can see more visitors, exploring some of the longer or slightly more challenging moderate routes, such as the Villa Montalvo Lookout Point loop from Saratoga, might offer a more secluded experience, especially during off-peak hours or weekdays. The extensive network also allows for spreading out.

Beyond hiking, Lexington Reservoir County Park offers several other outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy shoreline fishing, limited-power boating (canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards), mountain biking on designated trails, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. The reservoir itself is a central hub for many of these activities.

It's important to note that the park area west of Highway 17, specifically between Beardsley and Montevina Roads, is currently inaccessible and closed to the public. All bus-accessible routes mentioned are located in the open and accessible parts of the park or adjacent preserves.