Bikes, Birds, and Beautiful Blossoms

This 8-mile out-and-back bike ride or walk on the Los Gatos Creek Trail offers the best highlights of the season; wildflowers, busy birds, and sunny picnic spots. We recommend dusting off the bikes (you’ll want tires that can handle both pavement and gravel) and pedaling the path!

From Vasona Lake County Park, head south on the bike path as it winds along the edge of Vasona Reservoir. Coots, ducks, and Canada geese are common sights among the lupine and lavender on the water’s edge.

Cross over the railroad tracks to enter Oak Meadow Park, home to the Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad and the W. E. Mason Carousel. (Rides available on weekends 10:30 to 4:30.) This is a great stop for families since it has a large picnic area and playground.

Continue along the trail and keep an eye out for seasonal wildflowers like the bright yellow buttercups or pink and white wild radish. At the intersection with the colorful Forbes Mill Footbridge, turn right to exit the trail and venture into downtown Los Gatos for a refreshing treat: gelato from Dolce Spazio.

Return to the footbridge and ride across to begin the gravel portion of the route. As the trail dips below Main Street, take a moment to appreciate the massive mural depicting traditional Ohlone life in the Bay Area.

Follow the trail past long stretches of bright yellow and violet blossoms. Brake and smell the roses as the route ascends toward Lexington Reservoir. The final half-mile is a steep uphill push, but the views of the reservoir are well worth it! Birders can spot grebes, herons, and swans in the water, while golden eagles and red-tailed hawks fly overhead. Soak up the relaxing sights, then return the way you came.

BLOOM BLONUS: Want to keep pedaling? Continue north along the trail for another 2 miles. This stretch between Vasona Lake County Park and Los Gatos Creek County Park is lined with bright orange poppies.

Vasona Lake County Park is located at 333 Blossom Hill Rd. in Los Gatos. Here's a map to the park. Park hours are 8 a.m. to sunset. A $6 fee will be collected at the gate. Dog-friendly!

Story and photos by Heather Werner, @heath.wer.ner