Stop and Stair

Hike the Communications Hill Grand Staircase to Views of San Jose

08.17.2022

Settled in 1777, Communications Hill is one of the oldest neighborhoods in California, yet its Grand Staircase is a modern delight for urban hikers. This 252-step staircase and 2-mile (round-trip) trail offer beautiful views of Silicon Valley without ever leaving San Jose.

Grand Staircase in Communications Hill

Hiker taking in the panoramic view of San Jose at the top of Communications Hill Grand Staircase

Hikers begin their journey at the corner of Mullinix Way and Montevarchi Street. While climbing the white stone staircase, be sure to stop and take a look over your shoulder, as the surrounding peaks will soon be visible over the city skyline. At Communications Hill Trail, cross the trail to continue up the staircase.

This final stretch is lined with stately columnar trees and classic lampposts, making this a popular spot for photos, especially at sunset. Once atop the stairs, a beautiful vista awaits: San Jose, with a backdrop of the Santa Cruz Mountains, including Loma Prieta and Mount Umunhum.

At the top of the staircase, turn left to follow Casselino Drive, its stone balconies the perfect spots to stop and soak up the view. Then turn right onto Empoli Street for a glimpse of the decommissioned microwave tower that marks the top of Communications Hill.

Retrace your steps back to the Grand Staircase, and descend to Communications Hill Trail, which stretches between Casselino Drive and Vieira Park. This flat, paved stretch is perfect for strollers and dogs, and is ADA accessible. Vieira Park, named for the neighborhood’s early inhabitants, is a great place to refill water bottles, enjoy a picnic lunch, or let the kids blow off some steam on the small playground.

When you’ve had your fill of fun, return to the staircase and retrace your steps back down to Mullinix Way.

The bottom of the staircase can be found at the intersection of Mullinix Way and Montevarchi Street. From CA-87, exit onto E Capitol Expwy. Turn right onto Pearl Ave., then Hillsdale Ave. Turn left onto Regency Ave., then right onto Marble Arch Ave. At the intersection of Montevarchi and Mullinix, the staircase will be on the left. Street parking is available. The staircase is open to the public, but closed at night. Dog-friendly!

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

Trending Stories NorCal

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. Cheers to Chimney

    If you’re looking for all that Point Reyes has to offer in spring, Chimney Rock is the place to be. The 1.75-mile (round-trip) hike to Chimney may be short, but it packs a visual punch, quadrupling the viewing thrills during spring.

    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. Garland in Bloom

    Carmel Valley is known for its quaint wineries and scenic hiking trails. Enjoy both on this 3.75-mile loop through Garland Ranch Regional Park.

    View
  2. A woman stands amid an array of yellow and purple flowers at Descanso Gardens in Los Angeles

    Petal Paradise

    Tulips, lilacs, and daffodils—flower power is in full bloom at Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge. Sprawling across 150 acres surrounded by mountains, the gardens are putting on their best show right now.

    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