Rancho San Antonio County Park & Open Space Preserve, Cupertino, CA

Rancho San Antonio is a local park with a relatively short and easy hike. There is also a little farm along the hike with small animals such as pigs, cows and cats. Hikers may even spot the occasional snake or deer along the trail. Additionally, with specific trails designated for biking, Rancho San Antonio offers something for everyone. 

Castle Rock State Park, California 35, Los Gatos, CA

Castle Rock is unlike any other state parks in the area. With rocks that both amateurs and professionals can climb and small caves waiting to be explored, this park is simply beautiful. At the top of the mountain lies an unbelievable view, pictured above. 

Little Yosemite Area, Geary Rd, Sunol, CA 94586

Located in Sunol, Little Yosemite has waterfalls similar to the ones in the Sierra Nevada on a smaller scale. Only a one-mile hike, hikers can stop at this mini-waterfall and swim in its little pools that are approximately 10 feet deep (although legally not allowed). For a longer hike, there are a plethora of longer trails to pick from; however, they are not as scenic.

Muir Woods Visitor Center, 1 Muir Woods Rd, Mill Valley, CA 94941

The hiking trails at Muir Woods are located directly in the middle of the forest. The greenery and surrounding nature is vibrant, yet the weather creates a gloomy atmosphere. This large park has a variety of trails, varying in difficulty. Picnic benches are also available; however, a jacket is a good idea since the trail tends to be on the cooler side.

Alamere Falls, California 94924

Although the trail is far from FHS, the photos look unbelievable. The Alamere Falls trail is a hike along the coast which leads to a waterfall right on the sand. Reviews say that this hike may be difficult due to unpaved roads and having to climb down a cliff, so older and younger hikers should be cautious.

Vasona Lake County Park, 333 Blossom Hill Rd, Los Gatos, CA 95032

The trails at Vasona park are easy and friendly to people of all ages. With completely paved trails and primarily flat terrain, the park is accessible to all. Vasona Park also has a small lake where visitors can rent out kayaks or other types of water sports equipment and participate in recreational activities.