Santa Teresa County Park, San Jose

Took Mine Trail in a northerly direction from the small parking lot on Bernal Road. That led to Bernal Hill Trail for a 3 mile loop. Visited on 3/18/22, and it became obvious that slopes that faced north were still green, even lush, in spots, while south-facing slopes were already drying out. But springtime wildflowers were in abundance on all trails. Excellent views of South San Jose neighborhoods and the mountains surrounding the South Bay. It’s a bit more trafficked than the more remote trails around the Bay Area, which is understandable given the easy accessibility to the park from 101. The power lines are a bit of an eyesore, but the rest of the park is attractive.

🤗 Right next to where I grew up and where my parents still live. Parking is $6. You can park in the neighborhood below and walk/bike up for free though (steep incline on the way up is no joke). Hiking trails, biking, equestrian trails, picnic benches and pavilion areas. In the summer for a few years they used to do movies in the park up here at dusk. Currently not anymore. California poppies sprouting up around end of March/beginning April.