One of the trail’s many identifying signs
and enjoy using iTunes or an Apple device (recommended)
The Los Gatos Creek Trail is a pedestrian and bicycle trail that runs nearly 10 miles through the greater San Jose area of Santa Clara County, California. Named for the 24-mile long creek that runs from the Santa Cruz mountains, through the charming town of Los Gatos, and eventually into the Guadelupe River, the Los Gatos Creek Trail is a popular activity for residents of the South Bay area. The trail begins in the foothills of the beautiful Santa Cruz mountains, and continues to the edge of downtown San Jose, with several major stopping points along the way. Tourists and hikers may find solace in the beautiful and varying landscape of the Los Gatos Creek Trail and in the distinct neighborhoods it features along its path.
Users of all ages can enjoy the trail, whether on foot or on wheels!
Due to its impressive length spanning through the San Jose area, the Los Gatos Creek trail is a unifying force for the city, as it allows residents of diverse backgrounds, ages, races, socioeconomic situations and separate neighborhoods to share in a common form of recreation. The area surrounding the city of San Jose offers a culturally-rich and economically-diverse population, and the accessibility of the trail throughout the region encourages the intermixing and mingling of a medley of individuals. Using the trail is not only fun, but its also free of charge, which is one of its most appealing qualities to people of all backgrounds.
A map of the LG Creek Trail in its entirety
Another attractive features of the hiking path is its accessibility to pedestrians on foot or on wheels. Recreational opportunities are available not only to walkers and joggers, but to bicyclists, skaters, and rollerbladers as well! During a recent trip to the trail, I encountered bicycling toddlers on training wheels and parents pushing strollers. Another important feature of the Los Gatos Creek Trail is its overall accessibility to hikers with handicaps. Nearly all of the facilities along the trail meet the necessary standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the majority of the trail is navigable by users of wheelchairs, canes, or other assistive devices. These measures allow yet another deserving category of San Jose residents to participate in a fun and refreshing experience.