Rock the Block Alum Rock Park is what many, myself included, consider to be *the* crown jewel of CSJ parks, and it's easy to see why. From the vast 730-acres of green space includes thirteen miles of trails that run the gamet of flat sojourns, to steep hikes to Eagle Rock. It's also California's oldest Muni park (1872) but has always served as land since 1777 when the Pueblo was established. The Good: *Variety of trails, as mentioned above, and they're mostly shaded. *Lots of history here as there's remnants of an old train trestle that used to run visitors up to a health spa of sorts. There's still remnants of the spa as you can see--and smell thanks to the sulfur springs. *Trails also connect to adjoining Sierra Vista OSP, and is part of the Bay Area Ridge Trail. *Sand volleyball courts *Playground *Reservable and non-reservable picnic tables *Restrooms *Six miles of Horse trails *Three miles of Bikes trails *Home to the YSi (Youth Science Institute), which I highly recommend to parents. They have a bunch of summer camps that are great ways to get kids to love nature. The Meh: *No dogs allowed *Lots of poison oak *Parking costs $6 *Cell service is spotty, at best. The Ugly: *Budget cuts, budget cuts, budget cuts... Thanks to the lack of caring by our leaders for our parks, this place is not as great as it once was. As there's several entrances that have been closed off for nearly thirty years! *I can't believe I haven't written a review for this place yet. As the (unofficial) Mr San José I find it very shameful and shall self-flagellate immediately. Conclusion: Not as great as it used to be, but still pretty damn amazing. read more

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If you arrive before they open at 8 am, there is a line to enter. Luckily parking in the neighborhood and walking into the park is fairly easy. Arrived at one the trailheads hoping for a park map near the restroom but none were to be found. The trails were a little hard to follow and we ended up landing on a different one. Fortunately they all connect! Great place to hike with a ton of trails to choose from. Finished my hike at 9:30ish and the park was packed! read more

Went on early foggy morning hike. Hiked to Inspiration Point and then to Eagle Rock. It was a cold morning but much more enjoyable than the Summer heat. The trail to Inspiration Point had gradual climb that's not too long. Lush greens all around. Encountered a group of deer. Ground was not too soft so it was not too slippery or difficult that I felt comfortable with just trail runners on. Restroom at the start of the trail but none for at least another 5 miles. There were buildings that looked like restroom but were closed. Multiple parking lots at the main entrance to a few more inside the park. The trail to Eagle Rock had longer climb but not too bad. Nice view all around. read more

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Beautiful place to hike with quite a few wildflowers and critters along the paths. A few tips that prevent this from being a 5 star review: -watch out for poison oak, as there was a few spots where it crowded the trail a bit -some trails cross creeks but don't have bridges, so know your paths well and practice hopping across rocks -the water in the historic mineral springs obviously is not for drinking, but when I went it had pooled and stagnated enough to attract mosquitoes read more

I have a relaxing experience each time I hike through Alum Rock. There are several paths with different terrain - creeks, woodlands, or prairie hills. The park is clean and seldom crowded. I see plenty of wild life everywhere I go. Please pick up after yourselves! read more

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We decided to visit on a Wednesday to see the mineral springs. Despite being located in San Jose, if you're not a local, it takes a while to find because there's no cell reception in the area. One entrance is sealed off to cars and is very far away from the visitor center and mineral springs. A kind biker helped us with directions and told us to search for Mineral Springs Parking, which is next to the Youth Science Institute. After a short walk, we started to smell sulfur (rotten egg smell) and soon discovered a couple stone grottos. Only 1 spring still had running water - the rest were sealed off or not running. Side notes: 1.) There was a pay station, but on the Wednesday we went it was free. 2.) Public bathrooms were clean and stocked with toilet paper, liners, and paper towels. *Verdict: Glad we came, but considering the difficulty of reaching the area and the end result, we didn't think it was worth it. read more

Alum Rock Park - Mineral spring - Parks Near Me - San Jose, California

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There are a couple of trails to explore, not too difficult and perfect for a casual walk. There's plenty of parking, and lots to see throughout the park, from nature to historical spots. It's also kid friendly, so great for families. I definitely recommend checking it out. read more

Alum Rock Park - Parks Near Me - San Jose, California

my favorite san jose gem by far! i get a mix of gravel, dirt, hills, flat ground, forest. minimal bathrooms so be prepared before hiking. there are various trails u can find on AllTrails to accommodate different intensities. view are beautiful on cloudy/sunny days. i would recommend hiking shoes for the harder steeper trails because of loose soot. read more

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I recommend this park as long as you don't have any handicapped people in the group. This is a great Park and I would have given it five stars but for this reason. We were in a group site which was told to us that it was ADA compliant. It was not. At all The biggest thing is there was no handicap parking near an accessible walkway to the Rustic group area that we had reserved. The handicap parking spots lead down to a path that contains stairs. There was a supposed "ramp" around the other side pretty far away down the road, but no place to park near it. Then the "ramp" itself is in terrible condition with lots of uneven surfaces, I'm definitely not safe for a wheelchair travel. There was a locked gate as you can see at the top. Otherwise, we would have driven in and dropped off the handicap people. The "ramp" down was extremely bumpy and dangerous for wheelchairs and people with canes or unsteady feet. One lady from our group got hurt pretty bad as she fell forward in her electric wheelchair as it dropped over a bump. The chair fell on top of her pinning her to the ground. While she screamed in pain and fear, a few people ran over and graciously helped her upright her in the very heavy electric wheelchair. She is being seen in the ER at this moment to make sure there was nothing broken. Not only were the nearest bathrooms locked so we would have to walk way farther than any of our handicapped people were able to, so they would have to traverse the bumpy ground and go ALL the way around at quite a distance away. Have just not been such a beautiful park, I would have given it two or three stars. We didn't see any of the rest of the park today but I've been there before and I know it's a nice park. Supposedly renovations are going to take place, but who knows when this will be. That sign look pretty old, like it had been there for quite a while. The other picture is where she fell out of her wheelchair on the hill (ramp). You can see where we are temporarily parked illegally at the top of the ramp because my husband had to drop me off and pick me up with my walker. No way would I have been able to walk from the car to that spot. I also had a very hard time traversing that hill. read more

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I'm a San José native and am embarrassed to admit I hadn't gone to this park in ages. From my experience, you gotta park on the street in the residential areas and walk up to the entrance of the park. There is a parking lot at the entrance but it's very small. It was nice to walk the trail and visit the spot I hadn't visited since I was a kid. Great place to be out with nature. read more

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Runs, hikes, walks, jogs? So many trails are located at this park. I love to run through it or just simply go on a hot girl walk lol. There's benches and there's also a river flowing!! You can find mushrooms, bugs, and all that good stuff. Definitely one of my favorite parks + please pack in & pack out + read more

Alum Rock Park - Parks Near Me - San Jose, California

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A great walk with different trails to choose from depending on how far you're willing to walk. There's a creek, deer, bunnies, beautiful wildflowers, and lots of trees. No pet allowed though, but that is understandable given that there are mountain lion habitats nearby. read more

Alum Rock Park - Parks Near Me - San Jose, California

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First visit to this park and can't wait to come back here. I loved that it's so close to the city and yet feels you're so far from it all as soon as you're inside the park. We entered via the Penetencia creek entrance and parked at the first free parking lot in the park. It isn't a huge lot plus many of the spots are reserved, but I'm glad we found a spot on a gorgeous Sunday early afternoon in May. There was a map with various trails marked near the parking lot, but I wasn't sure where the trailheads were for any of them, except the creekside trail which started right next to the parking lot. The creekside trail is about 3.5 miles long as per the map - I hiked leisurely for about a mile and then turned back, and it was delightful all the way. The calming gurgling sound of the creek, tons of birds and butterflies, wildflowers galore, and some occasional deer and squirrel sightings - it was such a relaxing experience. At one point, we crossed a bridge and I saw additional parking lots - didn't realize there was more parking when I first entered. Also, appreciated that the restrooms near the entrance parking lot were so clean and functional. read more

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I love this place! Mountain bike riding is great! Hiking is wonderful! Fun for the whole family. Never too crowded and so close to the city. read more

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The trail is short, just a bit over 1 mile. But there's a YS center which has some animals exhibitions, including live tortoises and chinchilla. The trail is along a creek and when there's maintenance on the trail you can walk on the main road along the trail. The park has a parking lot before the park entrance so it's free. We also see a pavilion area for group picnics. read more

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BE AWARE LADIES There is a man stalking women and I happen to be his target. I was relaxing enjoying the view and then I seen a black shadow go behind a tree. I thought it might be a deer since I didn't get a good look at it. I started seeing what it looked like is a head poking out from behind the tree. I tried to record with my phone to see if I can zoom in but once I did the subject pulled back. I thought maybe I'm just over thinking. But to be safe i will position my body in that direction. I did have sun glasses on so I made it look like I was looking elsewhere but I was actually looking in that direction. After a few mins I seen a head slowly come out. Out of shock I lifted my glasses to see if I'm really seeing what i just seen??? Two men happen to walk up and I decided to be smart about this. I waited till they were walking near the tree that might have a person hiding behind. Once they got near the tree I yelled out to them asking if they can check if there is a person beside the tree. Once they did a body jumped up and tried to run away but there is nowhere to run besides back on the trail or off the cliff. The two men told me to walk with them and they even made me walk in front. The guy tried to hide from us but I lifted my phone above my head to see if I can capture anything. When I checked I was shocked and wanted to get out of there fast. Then men that were with me said he was wearing a lot of gear. My thoughts were I don't want to find out what gear he is setup with. He already showed he was hunting me. So I ran down and tried calling the police. As you know once you're in the park you lose service. Not good if you get kidnapped because your phone location is no longer on the grid. I made it to the ranger. Seemed like it was not taken to serious. They asked for pictures and told two men to continue working while I was trying to explain what just happen. This was a very serious moment. THERE IS A MAN HUNTING WOMEN. they should have called in for help and waited at all trail starting points to see if he comes out. He is the only man geared out. But no they just tried to keep me calm so no one can hear. I was offered water and a ride to my car but my car was right where I found the rangers. A lady heard me and asked if she can see the picture and also said wow they are really not doing anything about it. She decided to leave. I was also told that homeless are moving in the park. Also a major concern that they are living hidden and can grab anyone and take them to there camp that the rangers are not even aware of. This park need to put up cameras at all switch backs. And they need to really get in there and do a full walk through before something horrible happens. I'm thankful for the two men that caught him and made sure I made it back out safe. Charlie if you see this THANK YOU SO MUCH. read more

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Alum Rock Park is a nice park if you're looking for a nice hike. There is a parking lot right in front of the park and more parking lots within the park. They have mineral springs, creeks where you can enjoy the sound of running water, and hiking trails. If you want to have a picnic, they also have picnic tables scattered throughout the park, barbecue grills, some playgrounds for kids, and horseshoe toss stations within the park. read more

Usually go for retreats with my Buddhist consultant and do a variety of practices like meditation and things of the sort. Am grateful to found her and to work with at the time that I did. Also like to hike some of the easier trails to warm up and get a view of Downtown San Jose and also the Southern point of San Francisco. I like to practice cardio using a road/performance bike to get the body and heart going. South rim trail, sycamore switchback, Eagle rock are all fun and user friendly. Definitely recommend this park for a nice and quiet time out! Enso forever. Parking no fee, park entry no fee. Careful about mountain lions. "To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment." ― Ralph Waldo Emerson read more

Alum Rock Park - Post Royal Peppermint Forest, gratitude meditation glow. *_* Alum Rock Park. - Parks Near Me - San Jose, California

Since I grew up in East San Jose, this place was a staple to go to and from when I was a kid to my adulthood. Now I still go there and hike The south rim trail is covered with plenty of shade. Or you can go to eagle Rock and make a hike up there. Back in 2013 they added to the hiking trails with Boccardo peak and that is a really great hike which I think rivals Mission Peak. This is my go-to for the rest of my life. read more

Cool urban park in East SJ area. South trail is flat and follows creek. North trails are steeper and go up to hill ridge for view. Nice view of South Bay from Eagle Rock. Various picnic tables and BBQ grills. Free parking in first three lots. Flush toilet available at 1st and 2nd lots. read more

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I only wish people would respect the rules and not bring their dogs here. Otherwise, this is an awesome park. Free parking is great. I've seen bobcat, rattlesnake, wild turkey, foxes, hare, deers. That's why you shouldn't bring dogs here. read more

Great trails, great animals to look at, fun times all round. Lots of ticks in the grass though and gets pretty hot so bring ample water and ample sunscreen. read more

This park is a childhood favorite. My elementary school used to take us on field trips to have day hikes and to explore nature here so there was a lot of nostalgia during my visit today. We arrived a bit late so hiked through the shorter trail, and still was able to accomplish about a 4.5 mile hike. The trails are mostly flat with some having minimal incline. There are picnic tables spread throughout the park so having a picnic or a day lunch at Alum Rock Park would make way for a perfect date. Also, visitors can find one bathroom station by the main parking lot. Bring water, wear sunscreen, put on some comfortable hiking shoes that you don't mind getting dirty -- and enjoy this iconic park located in the East Foothills of San Jose. read more

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I have been many time for hiking. It was so amazing nature . a lot's trails like uphill , downhill . There is also a picnic area & big parking space . read more

Alum rock this fall is so beautiful! I always come back here to hike with my friends and family. read more

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What's not to like about this park? Yes, even with the pungent rotten egg smell that I won't miss, with a mask on no less, as I walk by the springs. Physicians in the last century even recommended people to bathe in the mineral spring water here for its medicinal value. The historical value of Alum Rock Park is incredible. Did you know there used to be a train service that ran between downtown SJ and the park? And back in the day, visitors could enjoy a splash in the park's natatorium. To go to some other open spaces, you have to drive a distance on narrow hilly roads with a slew of bends. Alum Rock Park's location is super convenient especially for the ESJ folks. The bonus is they have quite a few free parking spots. The fee has been waived for the front lots. The picnic areas have also been reopened. Facilities include a visitor center, playgrounds, volleyball courts, BBQ grills, etc. The Youth Science Institute here is small but packed with all sorts of educational stuff. They have a showcase of artifacts related to nature and wildlife. They offer science programs and summer camps for kids. Also cool is that they house some rescured animals in the back. I've been a fan of Alum Rock Park since wee high. I still see and learn new things every time I come. read more

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A bit hot in the summertime, but idyllic in springtime when Penitencia creek is flowing. Abundant wildlife, lots of trails and places to discover. History too! Oh and there's mineral springs... Free parking if you come up Penitencia Creek road - and you'll avoid the militant "don't park in my neighborhood!" person on Alum Rock drive read more

In my youth, I rode my horses in this park several times each week. It has been a while since I'd been there, so it was rather nostalgic to hike there today. There is a only one small parking lot open at the Penitencia Creek Road entrance. It was full when we arrived, so we parked on a residential street. If you visit, be prepared to walk for about a mile or so to reach the main part of the park. One thing I did not realize is that this is the oldest municipal park in California. It has a rich history and once had a train, hot springs, an indoor pool, and a cafe. Now, it is a nice place to hike with an interesting visitor center and an even better Youth Science Institute with a some resident live animals in addition to the stuffed ones on display that were there back when I was a kid. read more

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Wow...Absolutely beautiful and a hidden gem for sure! How did I not try this trail for so long?!!?! I like the open space, beautiful views, and multiple trail options good for hiking and biking. We actually ended up at this park since we couldn't find parking at Sierra Vista and I am so glad it happened that way. This trail also connects to Sierra Vista. I have tried both the trails and they are both beautiful, but this one has an edge for the variety in views (open landscape, water stream, woods, picnic benches) and multiple trail options suitable for all levels. Parking was easy. Although the park parking lot was closed there was ample parking available on the side streets. I plan to keep coming back often read more

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Alum Rock Park is less of a park and more of just a series of trails, with a few picnic tables for having a relaxing meal before/after a long trek in the "forest." Also, no dogs allowed. The main trail at the entrance is Penitencia Creek. But there are other trails/picnic areas nearby down the road with separate parking lots for each, ie. Eagle Rock Loop, Rustic Lands, and Log Cabin (the only one I found with a small grassy field). Again, the main attraction here is miles of partially paved/rocky/dirt trails lined with beautiful creeks, some trails with steep inclines but scenic views filled with greenery. If you're looking for a playground to entertain your kids or you're hoping to take your significant other for an easy "romantic walk in the park," this isn't what you're looking for (you've been warned). However, if you're looking for a good hike, or the peaceful sounds of the flowing river, then Alum Rock Park is a great choice. read more

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Amazing historical park with literal miles of both beginner friendly and somewhat advanced hiking trails. I believe it's actually the oldest city park in California. Bikes and horses are also welcome on certain trails, but no dogs allowed. Picnic areas complete with bbq grills are also available, some are first come first serve, others require a reservation. It's actually really close to the city but really doesn't feel like it oddly enough. read more

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Best.

An excellent spot for a day hike. We parked at the main entrance and hiked up through a small meadow with a stream running through it. Overall there is a lot of forest coverage, but you will want to bring sunblock and a sunhat just in case. After passing through the meadow, you can continue on the trails that will take you on a path that has less coverage. You might opt to go up the small hill and loop back down into the small meadow. We will definitely come back and see what else Alum Rock Park has to offer. It is good for kids and would probably be a very good hike in the Winter and Spring, once the area receives more rain and turns green again. read more

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This place is beautiful! Finally came here to walk around and was surprised since there was quite a bit of people for a Monday morning. Seems like there are a lot of different trails you can take so it wasn't overly crowded despite the number of cars there. The trail we took was so beautiful and extremely well paved. My favorite part was where there was a cavity between the two mountains to see the city in the distance. We also saw so many deers here which was a little sad because we bull dozed all over their habitat. Definitely wish we could have walked a little bit more trails here. Crazy that this is in the Bay Area! read more

Alum Rock Park - Parks Near Me - San Jose, California

Alum Rock is a pretty hike in San Jose. The view of San Jose is absolutely rewarding. One of my favorite parts of the hike is the beginning where it's nice & shady with all the trees. After you depart this area, you are exposed to the sun, so highly recommend going early in the morning when it's cooler. Also, bring a hat and wear sunscreen. You're sharing the trail with bikers, so watch out for them and let them pass you. There are multiple trails here and I'd like to explore one day. I usually hike up to the lookout point with the rock and then walk back down. You can park in the lot, which opens at 8 AM. If you find yourself at the park before then, you can park in the residential area and walk. read more

Alum Rock Park - So green! - Parks Near Me - San Jose, California

Legit park with rolling hills, a trickling creek and enough trees to add escape, as well as plenty of shade. So this was one of California's oldest designated parks. Back in the 1800's tourist would venture out here via train to get up close to a resort of sorts, with a natural spring on grounds. Most buildings and evidence from that era are long gone, they eventually wanted to highlight the nature aspect, which I'm all for. But you can still get glimpses from a century's past, with rock structures that used to harness the "Natural Springs" feature. The parking is kinda kooky as there are many options along the road. Some are free, whilst others have a fee. I paid this time around ($6) cuz my trailhead was literally next to this particular parking lot. Next time I'll walk an extra 4 minutes from the free lot down the road. Did a 4ish mile loop here and it was a nice ride. This particular hike climbs to about 700 feet but is not difficult at all. The climbs on this loop either direction you go, will be switchbacks, which is often the easiest way to climb. It zig zags in a gradual fashion, versus a steep grade straight up. I usually love switchbacks! And 60% of this hike is in the shade, which in the East San Jose heat, is a godsend. Up at the top you will see views of the urban sprawl that is the 408. You'll almost be eye level with hawks gliding through the canyon. I slowed my pace down here as I wanted to absorb the surroundings. Once past the downhill switchbacks, I picked up my pace again, mostly cuz the trails become more crowded on the lower levels. Being so convenient to bay area life, I am definitely making a return. Probably will try either a sunrise or a sunset version though. Guaranteed booked. read more

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Nice place to enjoy the trails in this park. Lots of good trails with shaded areas. The trails are flat, easy to walk around. read more

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Alum Rock is a solid 4.5 stars. It's great place to go for a short, local hike. As long as it rains, there's a rushing river to walk alongside. There are also a lot of trees that provide shade and relief from the heat in the summer. Once you start walking uphill, there isn't as much shade, but it doesn't take long to get to the top. The views of the valley are beautiful! There is also a lot of wildlife; I've seen deer on several occasions. The only downsides are that free parking is limited and they don't allow dogs. Overall, it's a great place to take a stroll with friends or go trail running! read more

Alum Rock Park - Peep the rainbow - Parks Near Me - San Jose, California

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No trail maps available. I would have used my app, but no cell service. Trails were marked as off limits but people were still walking on them. When I asked, they said they weren't really enforcing. We spent most of the time walking on roads versus trails. And, we weren't alone. Most people were wandering as if some magical trail head would appear. All I saw were picnic areas. The only trail worth it was the very short walk along the stream. The remainder of the park (at least for walking) was not appealing. read more

I was in Awe! The whole place is gorgeous. It's super clean and have lots of shaded areas and trails. There's so much to see. It's like being inside a mystery fairy tale book kinda story. I love the trees, creekside, mini bridges, and building structures......and pictures doesn't do it's justice. You will love it here. Who would of thought something like this exist in San Jose area. It's worth a visit folks. You are in for a treat. read more

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