Paved Trails for Rainy Day Walks in the Bay Area

On a recent overcast morning, a friend invited me to go on a rainy day walk. A lifelong San Josean (minus a detour or two!), I am unaccustomed to chilly, damp weather. Still, I made myself brave, slipping into my barely used raincoat and waterproof boots. I practiced some impromptu mindfulness and surrendered to the fact that we were going to get exposed to the elements. While our hair did get much frizzier, we managed to stay mostly dry. We had a fantastic (and rejuvenating!) time.

Even on the weekend, the paved trail, we found, was almost vacant. The brisk air — scientifically proven to be cleaner — smelled crisper than usual. Turns out we were getting our fix of petrichor (the technical name for the aroma that results from rainfall on dry soil). Rather than making us grouchy, the drizzle incited some giddiness. Once we got over the initial discomfort, we found ourselves stamping through puddles.

Check for Trail Closures!

Unless you’re an experienced hiker with the requisite gear, a rainy day walk can be daunting and dangerous. What’s more, in the aftermath of rainstorms, slippery mud, fallen trees, and trail closures are pretty common. In addition to being sturdier, paved trails are often closer to home. A serious bonus: you don’t have to drive on treacherous windy routes to find nature. Still, due to potential flooding and other hazards, it’s crucial to visit official websites to check out the trail conditions before you head out.

Take a Rainy Day Walk

1. San Tomas Aquino/Saratoga Creek Trail

West San Jose

This 4.6-mile paved trail follows the creek corridor through the city of Santa Clara. From its Monroe Street entrance, it extends to the Guadalupe Slough on the southern end of the San Francisco Bay. When the creek is flowing, the sound of rushing water adds a soothing ambiance. Listen, too, for the call of the Pacific chorus frog in the spring. With so many mallards, egrets, and black phoebes, it’s also an A+ birding spot. Due to its suburban locale, you’ll pass under road crossings and spy glimpses of tech campuses and Levi’s Stadium. Pups also enjoy a rainy day walk, so bring yours along on a leash!

For information on closures of the trail for maintenance or weather, visit the City of Santa Clara’s website.

2. Coyote Creek Trail

San Jose

The main southern segment of this mostly flat, scenic route runs along (you guessed it!) Coyote Creek. It extends through South San Jose and Coyote Valley, ending near Anderson Lake County Park in Morgan Hill. A good starting point is Hellyer County Park, which features parking, restrooms and multiple resting areas. The trail’s namesake winds through the park’s center, fringed by Oak, Cottonwood and Sycamore trees. This route is dog friendly and accessible for a variety of fitness levels.

For information on closures of the trail for maintenance or weather, visit the Santa Clara County Parks website.

3. Devil’s Slide Trail

Pacifica

This paved coastal path is a rainy-day dream come true. Wet weather brings out the Pacific Ocean’s dramatic beauty, with crashing waves below and fog rolling over the cliffs. The wide, smooth trail means way less muddy mess, so you can enjoy the views without worrying about tracking crud into your car on the drive home. Watch for seabirds soaring through the mist and the occasional rainbow breaking through the clouds. Adding to this trail’s many virtues: it’s is a segment of the epic California Coastal Trail. Once complete, this vast route will extend 1,200 miles from Oregon to Mexico, connecting travelers to an array of oceanside landscapes.

For information on closures of the trail for maintenance or weather, visit the County of San Mateo website.

4. Arana Gulch

Santa Cruz

This 67-acre open space is located at the eastern border of the City of Santa Cruz. While there’s no on-site parking, street parking is available on Agnes Street. The area features paved multi-use trails as well as a pedestrian loop with interpretive displays. The trails are beautiful but exposed, so be sure and bring your umbrella. Dogs are welcome on a leash. One of the few sites in the County featuring the endangered Santa Cruz tarplant, restoration efforts are underway.

For information on closures of the trail for maintenance or weather, visit the City of Santa Cruz website.

5. Stevens Creek Trail

Mountain View

Heading southward from Shoreline Park, this 4.2-mile trail runs through tidal marshlands, salt ponds and natural riparian habitats. It can be done as an out and back, or you can connect with the San Francisco Bay Trail and keep going! You can find parking at its primary entrance, at its junction with the San Francisco Bay Trail. Over 40,000 people live within walking distance to this trail, which travels through many neighborhoods, business centers and school grounds.

For information on closures of the trail for maintenance or weather, visit the Friends of Stevens Creek Trail website.

6. Rancho Cañada del Oro: Llagas Creek Loop

Morgan Hill

In the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains in Santa Clara County is the beautiful Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve. There are 12 miles of trails that offer both easy and more difficult options. The half-mile Llagas Creek Loop is great if you’re looking for a short paved trail that is mostly flat. It’s perfect for strollers and wheelchairs. In contrast with the regional trails above, this location has a more remote vibe. The Llagas Creek Loop starts just off the parking area next to Casa Loma Road.

For information on closures of the trail for maintenance or weather, check the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority website.

What are you waiting for?

A rainy day walk can transform an overcast, dreary outlook into a (metaphorically!) sunnier one. From the soothing sound of flowing creeks to the quiet charm of a neighborhood path, there’s something special about these treks. With the right gear, a little prep work, and a willingness to get damp, you’ll be ready to hit a paved trail. So the next time the forecast gets gloomy, don’t cancel your plans. Grab your raincoat, lace up your best boots, and step in a puddle or two. You might just find that a rainy day walk is your favorite kind of stroll.