Colorful Calero

Hike or bike at Calero County Park in the South Bay

03.16.2022
A hiker sitting on the trailside taking photos of poppies and wildflowers at Calero County Park in the South Bay

{APRIL 6, 2023 UPDATE: Due to recent storms, before going to the park, please check ahead for weather forecasts, along with trail status and conditions; trails can be muddy and have debris or unexpected hazards; exercise good judgement and caution.}

Rolling green hills, gorgeous vistas, and wildflowers festooning the landscape … yep, it’s a good time to visit Lisa’s Lookout. This 5.4-mile out-and-back hike in the South Bay’s Calero County Park is a gentle ascent through landscape currently awash with color.

California poppies decorate the green hills at Calero County Park in the South Bay

Two cows on the trailside hills at Calero County Park in the South Bay

Hiker on a trail at Calero County Park in the South Bay

From the Rancho San Vicente entrance, pass through the cattle gate and follow the Lisa Killough Trail as it winds up into the hills. This is a popular stretch, and hikers often share the path with cyclists and dog walkers. After half a mile, cross the Almaden-Calero Canal and bear right to stay on the Lisa Killough Trail.

Hiker on a trail at Calero County Park in the South Bay

From here, the landscape changes dramatically, alternating between boulder-strewn fields and lush forest. While hiking the open sections of trail, look for sun-loving flowers like the lupine and California poppy. In shadier manzanita groves, hikers can find clusters of bright buttercups. Butterflies and other colorful insects enjoy the flowers too.

Blue butterfly

Hiker crossing at bridge at Calero County Park in the South Bay

After 2 miles, turn left into Lisa’s Lookout, a picnic area celebrating Lisa Killough, who worked with Santa Clara County parks for 25 years and was a dedicated advocate for conservation and expansions of trail systems. Lisa passed away in 2016.

Sign for Lisa's Lookout at Calero County Park in the South Bay

Soak up the views of the surrounding Santa Cruz Mountains, including Mount Umunhum to the west. Return the way you came.

Mountain biker on a trail at Calero County Park in the South Bay

Two hikers taking a break at Lisa's Lookout picnic area at Calero County Park in the South Bay

Calero County Park is located at 21151 McKean Rd., San Jose. Take Almaden Expwy. south to Harry Rd. Turn right onto Harry Rd., then immediately left onto McKean Rd. After 1.5 miles, turn right into the parking lot. The park is open from 8 a.m. to sunset. Mountain bikes and leashed dogs are permitted on designated trails. Dog-friendly!

Story and photos by Poe Casavant, @PoeCasavant (Twitter)

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. Muir Woods Night Tour

    Thousands of people flock to Muir Woods every year, yet only a few see it at night, when this beloved park is experienced in a whole new light. The Muir Woods Night Tour happens on the last Friday of every month through October.

    View
  2. Slide Ranch Marin

    Slide On Over

    Marin's Slide Ranch has a popular neighbor in the Muir Beach Overlook. But don’t overlook Slide! This open-to-the-public nonprofit organization sits on 134 acres of coastline and is filled with animals, Pacific scenery, and an adjacent hiking trail.

    View
  3. Sponsored

    Take the Exit to the Best of the San Francisco Peninsula

    The San Francisco Peninsula is proof that some of Northern California’s greatest surprises are hiding just off Highway 101. All you have to do is take the exit.

    View

  4. Hello, Sur!

    Big Sur is home to numerous fantastic beaches and coves, so which one do you choose? Go for the beach that's quintessential Big Sur (and dog-friendly!). Pfeiffer Beach in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Its signature lilac-colored sand is waiting for your feet!

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories

  1. Waterfall Hunter

    If you ask a local in Reno about one of the best hiking trails in town, odds are high they’ll point you to Hunter Creek Falls. It’s a year-round favorite, but it absolutely shines in spring, when desert peach wildflowers make a splash—and so does the marquee waterfall.

    View

  2. Wapama Wows

    Hetch Hetchy can be overlooked in Yosemite National Park because of its more remote location and limited facilities. But this is where you’ll also find one of the best day hikes in the park: Wapama Falls.

    View
  3. Bike the Coastal Trail to Pillar Point Harbor in Half Moon Bay

    Ride and Seek

    Oceanside breezes, beautiful beaches, a car-free pathway for biking, and beer at the end: You’re on a roll! The San Mateo Coast was made for beach hopping and beer tasting … and it all goes down smooth as part of an 8-mile out-and-back bike ride.

    View

  4. Tamtastic Sunset

    Sure, the East Peak of Mount Tam is absolutely spectacular at sunset, but some magic-hour enthusiasts are onto a fresh perspective in getting a little more personal space for their panoramic viewings.

    View