Coyote Peak Loop

The trail typically starts from the Pueblo Day Use area within Santa Teresa County Park. There is parking available there, which serves as a convenient trailhead.

Yes, the Coyote Peak Loop is dog-friendly. However, please ensure your dog is kept on a leash as per park regulations.

The best time to jog the Coyote Peak Loop is during winter and spring. The hills are vibrant and green, wildflowers like poppies bloom in February, and the temperatures are more moderate. Summer can be very hot due to limited shade, so plan accordingly with extra water and sun protection.

Santa Teresa County Park generally does not require permits for day use, and there are typically no entrance fees to access the park itself.

Jogging the Coyote Peak Loop typically takes around 45 to 50 minutes, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views. The route is approximately 6.1 kilometers (3.8 miles) long.

From the summit of Coyote Peak, you can expect spectacular panoramic views. These include the Santa Clara and Almaden Valleys, the Diablo Range, the Santa Cruz Mountains, and the southern expanse of Silicon Valley. On a very clear day, you might even see as far north as Mount Tamalpais.

The terrain is varied, featuring a mix of singletrack paths and wider fire roads. You'll encounter gentle climbs, but also steep sections, especially closer to the peak, which can have loose stones and dirt. Some parts, like the Mine Trail, can be muddy after rain, and the Rocky Ridge Trail is a challenging, rocky descent.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Boundary Trail, the Coyote Peak Trail, and the Service Road. You'll also briefly encounter parts of the Bay Area Ridge Trail - 03 - South Bay and the Ohlone Trail.

The open grasslands near the summit are home to various wildlife. You might spot grazing cows, ground squirrels, deer, and if you're lucky, foxes or bobcats.

There is very little shade throughout much of the park, especially as you ascend towards the peak. The initial sections along creeks offer some cover from old oak and Bay Laurel trees, but most of the climb is exposed.

Given the varied terrain and limited shade, it's advisable to bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days. Sun protection like a hat and sunscreen is also recommended. Sturdy jogging shoes with good grip will be beneficial for the steep and potentially rocky sections.

Yes, there are benches at various viewpoints along the route, including one at the intersection of the Rocky Ridge Trail and Coyote Peak Trail. Another bench is located at the summit of Coyote Peak, perfect for resting and taking in the expansive scenery.