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The Coyote Creek Trail is a lovely family and kid-friendly, paved bike trail which runs from San Jose almost all the way to Morgan Hill. Of course you probably won't make it that far with kids unless you have an electric bike and/or superpowers. A great option for a kid-friendly bike adventure is to park on the south side of Hellyer Park near the playground and then head south on the Coyote Creek Trail. Once you get past the Hwy101 underpass, you will be surprised how quiet and serene the trail becomes. The trail is also fairly well shaded so this ride felt great even on a hot June day. Once you've had enough riding, head back to the Hellyer Park playground and cool off in the splash pad. This playground was recently renovated and is really amazing for kids of all ages!
Alert: The Coyote Creek Trail is prone to flooding. Check trail status prior to going out during the rainy season.
Bathrooms
Yes, next to Hellyer Park playground
Playground
Yes (+ splash pad!)
Kid transportation
Kid bike, bike trailer, stroller, scooter, etc.
Suggested Route
Park near the Hellyer Park playground (on the south side of Hellyer Avenue). Head toward the lake and hop on the Coyote Creek Trail heading south (you'll go under Hwy101 almost immediately). Go as far as you'd like and turn around. Approximately ~2 miles south of Hellyer Park you will reach a bridge which takes you to Shady Oaks Park (in case you'd like to add another playground to the adventure).
Difficulty
Easy (a couple of hills, but overall very easy)
Parking Situation
Abundant
Entrance Fee
$6
Bonus
The Hellyer Park playground is new and awesome. It has a great splash pad, a sand water feature, and lots of shade!
Official Park Website
Coyote Creek Trail: http://www.sanjoseca.gov/?nid=2821 Coyote Creek Trail: https://www.sccgov.org/sites/parks/parkfinder/Documents/159784coyote_trail.pdf Hellyer Park: https://www.sccgov.org/sites/parks/parkfinder/Pages/Hellyer.aspx
Date Updated
June 2019
