A bench at the top of a green grassy hill overlooking trees and a vast green valley below, with green mountains in the distance. The sky is blue with some light clouds.

Open Space Preserves

Come Discover Nature

Open Space Authority preserves are open year-round, free to visit and offer opportunities for people of all backgrounds and interests to connect with nature. Come hike or walk, bike, horseback ride or simply relax in a beautiful landscape.

If you’re new to enjoying open space, check out our “New Visitors” page to prepare for your next visit!

New Visitors

Recreation

Rolling green hills with oak trees and winding trails overlooking a wide green valley beyond them, and mountains on the far side, under a blue sky.

public open space preserves

group of hikers surrounding and looking at a book

30+

miles of trails

to hikers with their backs to the camera on a dirt trail with a large tree to the right and a huge expanse in front of them

365

days of the year open

Your Open Space Preserves

Coyote Valley

Located in the rural greenbelt between San José and Morgan Hill, Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve offers breathtaking nature experiences for all. Visit Coyote Valley.

A green grassy hillside with yellow and orange wildflowers, beyond are more green hills under a clear blue sky

Máyyan ‘Ooyákma – Coyote Ridge

Comprised of rare serpentine grasslands, this unique preserve is a biodiversity hotspot for sensitive endangered plants and animals and a can't-miss destination for wildflower season. Visit Máyyan ‘Ooyákma – Coyote Ridge.

large field of lupines that are purple with white tips

Rancho Cañada del Oro

Featuring mixed woodlands, grasslands and glistening creeks, this preserve nestled in the southern foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains is a hidden gem. Visit Rancho Cañada del Oro.

dirt trail with dry grasses in the foreground and green mountains against a blue sky with few clouds

Sierra Vista

Located in the Eastern foothills of Santa Clara County, Sierra Vista boasts some of the best views in the region, amidst oak woodlands, rolling grasslands and chaparral habitats. Visit Sierra Vista.

Other Protected Lands

In addition to four public Open Space Preserves, the Open Space Authority manages other protected lands across Santa Clara Valley. Many of these lands can be enjoyed through special-access events.

Land Protection

Events