What you need to know
Location Activities
Park Information
Towering forests, clear creeks and epic views of Silicon Valley are just a few of the reasons to love Sanborn County Park. This local treasure is yours to enjoy thanks to Santa Clara County Parks and through POST's ongoing support in land acquisition, scientific research, regional planning and in garnering support for public funding.
Watch for:
Banana slugs, Pacific wren, black-headed grosbeak, Cassin's vireo and many other birds.
Our Favorite Hike at Sanborn County Park
Distance: 9 miles round trip
Elevation change: 1800′ elevation gain
Hiking time: 5 – 6 hours
Trail surface: Packed dirt, mostly shaded
Best Season: All year
Parking lot address: Click here for directions
Though we try to keep this page accurate, please see the Santa Clara County Parks website before visiting for the latest information.
Overview:
Sanborn County Park contains over 3,449 acres of mixed forest, tucked into the Santa Cruz Mountains between the town of Saratoga and Skyline Boulevard. With over 15 miles of trails, there are many options for easy nature walks as well as more challenging hikes like this one.
This hike takes you through beautiful redwood groves to Skyline Blvd and Indian Rock, where you may see rock climbers testing their skills — and may be inspired to do a little scrambling yourself. Though the hike is long, it is mostly shaded and rewards you with beautiful views.
From the park’s headquarters, climb the Sanborn Trail, right on the Skyline Trail and right on the Indian Rock Trail. Retrace your steps to the Skyline Trail, left on Skyline Trail, left on Sanborn Trail and then follow the San Andreas Trail back to the parking lot.
Recent Photos
The Backstory
In 1985, POST protected 117 acres adjacent to Sanborn County Park and soon after transferred that land to Santa Clara County Parks for permanent management and protection — land that is now yours to explore as part of this county park. POST also holds a 15-acre conservation easement on a property adjacent to the existing park.