Bald Peaks Viewpoint – Bald Peaks Trail Viewpoint loop from Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve Entrance
Bald Peaks Viewpoint – Bald Peaks Trail Viewpoint loop from Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve Entrance
2.8
(3)
70
hikers
Bald Peaks Viewpoint – Bald Peaks Trail Viewpoint loop from Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve Entrance
04:18
14.2km
470m
Hiking
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
29 m
Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve
Highlight • Natural
2.88 km
Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
3.26 km
Viewpoint
Viewpoint
6.26 km
Longwall Canyon Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
7.81 km
Bald Peaks Viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
8.98 km
Bald Peaks
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
9.01 km
Bald Peak Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
10.5 km
Bald Peaks Trail Viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
10.5 km
View of Morgan Hill from Calero County Park
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
14.2 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
8.04 km
6.09 km
107 m
Surfaces
12.0 km
2.18 km
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (530 m)
Lowest point (210 m)
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Weather
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Today
Saturday 27 June
23°C
12°C
26 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 20.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're seeking expansive views and a solid workout in the Santa Clara Valley, the Bald Peaks Viewpoint – Bald Peaks Trail Viewpoint loop from Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve Entrance is a popular choice. This hiking route is rated moderate, covering 8.8 miles (14.2 km) with a significant 1548 feet (472 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 4 hours and 17 minutes. It's an excellent option for hikers looking for a rewarding challenge with panoramic payoffs, especially if you appreciate a diverse landscape.
What to expect on Bald Peaks Viewpoint – Bald Peaks Trail Viewpoint loop from Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve Entrance
The trail offers a dynamic journey through varied terrain, starting with wider paths that wind through shaded oak woodlands before opening up into vast grasslands. As you ascend towards the Bald Peaks Viewpoint, expect some steep sections with grades up to 17%, interspersed with more moderate climbs. Your effort will be richly rewarded with incredible 270-degree views, stretching across the Santa Cruz Mountains, Santa Clara Valley, and the San Francisco Bay Area, with clear perspectives towards Morgan Hill and Mount Hamilton. This route is best suited for hikers with good fitness who enjoy a mix of challenging climbs and breathtaking vistas.
Planning your visit
The Bald Peaks Viewpoint loop is a fantastic hike, but be prepared for its conditions. After rain, certain sections can become quite muddy, so appropriate footwear is a must. The hills are particularly vibrant and green during winter and spring, with an abundance of wildflowers in spring, making these seasons ideal for a visit. The preserve is a hidden treasure, offering a remote feel despite its proximity to urban areas, and provides a thoughtful trail network that connects with Calero County Park for extended options.
Trail details
- Distance: 8.8 miles (14.2 km)
- Elevation gain: 1548 feet (472 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 4 hours and 17 minutes
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