San Jose is a lovely city south of the tech capital of Silicon Valley. It is surrounded by hills and has a beautiful historic center.
There are many great places to run in San Jose. We’ve collected the best to save you time and allow you to choose the perfect option for your experience. But keep in mind that to run closer to downtown, you can only get there by car, or you will have to call a taxi.
1. Alum Rock Park
This place is trendy among locals who like to walk and run. So, be prepared for crowds of people.
The park covers 720 acres, and the Alum rock park running trails total about 13 miles. The entire route, considered moderately difficult, can be run in 2 hours and 10 minutes.
Be aware that no dogs are allowed here, as Alum Rock Park is a protected wildlife sanctuary. There is also no free parking.
Why is it great?
- Many trees in the park protect you from the sun while running – perfect on hot days.
- The 7.7-mile loop is excellent for practicing the route before races.
- Pleasant views and fresh air; you can also stop and rest in the shade of trees.
2. Montgomery Hill Park
Montgomery Hill Park is located above Evergreen Valley College in the East Foothills of San Jose. Here you can run a 0.4-mile unpaved path. However, don’t be in a hurry to reject this option – this park compensates for the lack of miles with the incredible beauty of nature and picturesque views.
Be aware that there are no public toilets here, so go to the bathroom before entering the route.
Why is it great?
- The trail is very hilly, perfect for an intense workout.
- If you want to make the course longer, add 1.2 miles along Evergreen Creek.
- A stunning landscape featuring natural meadows, oaks, and vivid wildflowers makes your workout a great experience.
3. The Baylands Trails
If you want a great workout with a variety of trails and amazing views, go to the east coast between Palo Alto and San Jose. There are many parks and gardens overlooking the bay.
You can run on both dirt and paved trails. The three main sections are East Palo Alto, Mountain View (near Google and NASA), and the Alviso trials towards San Jose.
Want mountain views? Run the Bay Trail 6-miler, the 5-mile Stevens Creek Trail, the 3-mile Moffett Loop, and the 2.5-mile Moffet Field Bay Trail.
Also, pay attention to such Palo Alto trails as the five-mile Adobe Creek Loop Trail and Shoreline Park, which is 3.7 miles one way, Sunnyvale Baylands Park for speed training, and Alviso Park with its 8-mile loop with beautiful scenery.
Why is it great?
- The Baylands Trails is the best place for bird watching on the whole coast.
- Palo Alto Baylands is located just 2.5 miles from downtown Palo Alto, where you’ll find trails of varying distances and difficulty.
- Easy to get to from downtown San Jose.
- Each section is a separate route for observing and admiring the beauty of nature.
4. Los Gatos Geek Trail
The Los Gatos Geek Trail is one of the most iconic running trails in San Jose, attracting both runners and cyclists. It starts about 3 miles south of the town and continues south to the Los Gatos Mountains. It is a 10-mile paved running and bicycle trail.
Why is it great?
- You have the opportunity to run on different tracks. For example, the trail on the western side of the stream is paved, and on the eastern side, it is an unpaved path.
- From north to south, the route passes through Campbell Park, Los Gatos Creek Park, downtown Los Gatos, and Vascona Lake Park, ending at the Lexington Reservoir/Dam.
- The path gradually climbs 500 feet, which will delight strength training enthusiasts.
- You can extend your route in the south and run along the unpaved Flume Trail to Novitiate Park and St. Joseph’s Hill.
- Picturesque areas along the way add a good mood to your workout.
5. Guadalupe River Trail
This route is a 9-mile trail that follows the Guadalupe River from downtown San Jose to San Francisco Bay. You’ll run through landmarks and parks, such as the 250-acre Guadalupe River Park.
Why is it great?
- This is a great training option for city guests, as the trail is not far from the airport.
- You can eat something or take a break, as you will find many cafes, restaurants, and rest places along your way.
- It is convenient to get there from any part of the city.
- If you reach the Campus of Santa Clara University, you can add a 2-mile loop to your route.
- You can finish your training with a walk in the Guadalupe Gardens Heritage rose garden, where you can admire an extraordinary collection of different varieties of roses. By the way, entrance to the garden is free.
6. Coyote Creek Trail
This San Jose trail is nearly 30 miles long and is considered easy. However, the average time to cover this route is about 8 hours and 21 minutes. The entire course is divided into three parts: the Northern Reach (1.4 miles), the Central Reach (0.5 miles), and the Southern Reach (17.8 miles). The trail is open year-round and is always crowded, as it is a popular spot for fishing, bird-watching, and horseback riding.
Why is it great?
- The trail is long enough to prepare for a marathon, or half-marathon, depending on your training plan.
- You can bring your dog, but you must provide a leash.
- During the run, you will enjoy a picturesque water view.
- There is a lot of public art along the way – you will find something to enjoy when you rest from your workout.
7. Santa Teresa County Park
If you’re in South San Jose and are Googling “running trails near me,” you should definitely consider training at Santa Teresa County Park. It is located 10 miles south of downtown San Jose in the Santa Teresa Hills.
The park covers 1,673 acres and is a popular spot for fishing, horseback riding, and bird watching. Here you can find different trails for beginners and advanced runners. Also, be sure to bring sunscreen, plenty of water, and a cap – there aren’t many trees here, so you need to protect yourself.
Why is it great?
- One of the best routes combines the Joice, Bernal Hill, and Norred Loop for a scenic 3.1-mile run. The route has a nice balance of flat sections and steep slopes – rest assured, you will have a great workout!
- You can also run along the 13.4k loop, which takes about 4 hours and 14 minutes to complete — excellent for preparing for a half-marathon.
- Plenty of free parking spaces.
- You can take dogs, but don’t forget the leash.
8. Almaden Quicksilver County Park
This park is a highlight of the San Jose region because it has a fascinating history – there were mercury mines here in the past. The remains of the mining area, with an area of 4,163 acres, are a beautiful sight.
You can explore the surroundings during your running workout for an unforgettable experience. Take lots of drinking water with you because you cannot find it everywhere.
Also, check the park’s official website before going after heavy rains, as trails may be closed due to dangerous conditions.
Why is it great?
- You can visit the Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum to learn more about the history of the place.
- You’ll find more than 57 miles of different running trails here, and the hilly landscape will add to the intensity.
9. Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve
If you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve is just what you need. It is located about 20 miles from San Jose, and its area is 348 acres.
The wild terrain is perfect for running. But be sure to bring enough drinking water with you, as there are no drinking fountains here.
Why is it great?
- The challenging but very cool 4-mile Arrowhead Full Loop Trail is perfect for advanced runners.
- You can enjoy picturesque landscapes – rocks, meadows, and oak forests.
- You may see some true wildlife: deer, lynx, hawks, and eagles, giving you a real immersion in nature, not just a workout.
10. Martial Cottle Park
This option is perfect if you’re googling “jogging trails near me” and love new and improved parks. Formerly a family ranch, Martial Cottle Park covers 287 acres with over 3 miles of running trails.
Why is it great?
- An easy and flat route, excellent for beginners.
- There are many places where you can stop and rest during the run.
- Bring your family or friends with you – there is plenty of space for a picnic.
- You can learn more about the park’s history at the visitor center; you can also download the Agents of Discovery app on your phone and try Cottle’s combat mission while running or walking. You might even win a prize!
If you want to get off your treadmill and try running in the fresh air, choose from the best San Jose runs on our list. If we missed one of your favorites, please let us know in the comments.
