Coyote Hills Regional Park

Coyote Hills is almost shocking in its ecological diversity. From the mid-summer to about October, it can be a swampy mess based on the fact that the water flow to the many man-made bays and estuaries is manually decreased, and the hills and surrounding area are a uniform beige brown. But from about November to February or March, it is one of the most spectacularly beautiful areas in the Bay area - and that's saying something! The hills are green, the bays and swamplands are full, there's so much sea life on display, and it's truly a beauty to behold. It's worth mentioning that the smell can be strong when walking the edge of the Bay but it's usually worse in the warmer months. You get used to it and, unless it's a really hot day, it's usually not that big of a deal. While I think the area is more beautiful in the winter months, there is definitely something to be said for hiking here in the summer. Some of my favorite Bay Area hiking spots on a summer day in mid-afternoon can be pretty hot and, while this area doesn't offer much shade, the temperature is usually a couple of degrees lower and there is almost always a nice breeze coming from off the bay. Even on days where I think it's going to be too hot, it's usually pretty pleasant. The trails range from a flat and paved perimeter to some steep/challenging hills through the middle, and you can mix and match in whatever way you want. (Steep hills through the middle on the way out, flat paved perimeter walk on the return. If it's too short, go around twice and take a different route.) Views are spectacular from the hills or from the flat perimeter trail that borders the bay. Parking is $5 a day or you can get a season pass, which lasts a year and includes other parks. (Note that there are senior discounts and student discounts!) Another parking option is the dirt parking lot by the street (on Paseo Padre, right before turning onto Patterson Ranch Road), which is about a mile walk to the main parking lot. It's a nice walk and adds to your hike, but it is flat and the scenery doesn't change much on that walk. The good news is that that area is newly paved! Cyclists can also use the flat paved parts and I've seen several braver souls on mountain bikes on some of those very steep hills I mentioned. Leashed dogs are also okay but please bring a doggy bag - it's rare, but sometimes people don't. I hope you enjoy it!