Lisa Killough and Cottle Trail Loop

The loop is located within Calero County Park in San Jose, California. You can typically find parking at the main park entrances or designated trailheads within the park that provide access to the Cottle Trail or Lisa Killough Trail segments.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on trails within Calero County Park, including this loop. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other trail users.

The best time depends on your preference. Spring (March-April) is ideal for vibrant green hills and abundant wildflowers. Winter also offers lush green scenery. During summer and autumn, the grasses turn golden, providing a different aesthetic. Be mindful of warmer temperatures in summer.

Calero County Park typically charges a vehicle entrance fee. It's best to check the official Santa Clara County Parks website for the most current information on fees and any specific permit requirements for activities like equestrian use, though general jogging usually doesn't require a special permit.

The loop features a varied terrain, predominantly unpaved with gravel sections, especially on the Cottle Trail, and singletrack segments on the Lisa Killough Trail. While generally not highly technical with few rocks or roots, the unpaved nature and significant elevation changes contribute to its moderate difficulty.

You'll experience diverse scenery, including grass hills, wooded sections, and views of the Calero Reservoir. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as burrowing owls, coyotes, ground squirrels, and various birds like ducks, geese, cormorants, and even bald eagles near the reservoir. Wildflowers are abundant in spring.

Yes, a significant feature is Lisa's Lookout, which offers benches and panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the Santa Cruz Mountains. You'll also pass by the Lone Tree in Calero County Park, a popular natural landmark.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several trails. You'll be jogging along parts of the Bay Area Ridge Trail - 03 - South Bay, the Lisa Killough Trail, the Cottle Trail, the North Ridge Trail, and the Oak Cove Trail.

Given its length of approximately 13.8 km (8.6 miles) and an elevation gain of about 248 meters (814 feet), this loop is generally considered moderate to hard for jogging. While the Lisa Killough Trail has gentle ascents, the Cottle Trail can include steep climbs. It requires good to very good fitness, so it might be challenging for absolute beginners.

For mountain bikers, the Lisa Killough Trail segment is designated as one-way in the counter-clockwise direction. While joggers can go either way, being aware of this can help anticipate bike traffic. Also, consider starting early on warmer days, as much of the trail can be exposed to the sun.

While Calero County Park has facilities at its main entrances, water sources and restrooms are limited directly on the trail loop itself. It's highly recommended to carry sufficient water for the entire duration of your jog and use facilities at the trailhead before you start.