moderate
Activities
Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch Information
With spectacular views of the South Bay, this is a must-see piece of the iconic Northern California landscape.
Watch for:
Keep an eye out for the elusive bald eagle, which has been spotted here. You may also spot salamanders, black tailed deer, and wild pigs.
Hiking Details for Coyote Lake Harvey Bear
Distance: 4 miles
Elevation change: 600 feet
Hiking time: 1.5 hours
Trail surface: Packed dirt
Best Season: Fall
Managing agency: Santa Clara County Parks
Parking lot location: Click here for directions
Overview: This trail weaves through golden hills sprinkled with towering valley oak. With beautiful views and little shade, it is best suited for cooler months or, in the summer, early morning starts.
Park at the Coyote Lake Dam parking lot, and take the Harvey Bear Trail into the hills. Keep right on the Ed Wilson Trail at the first intersection, and then follow it around a meandering loop back to where you began.
Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch Photo Gallery
More About Coyote Lake Bear Ranch
Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch is a 6,695 acre regional recreation area located in Gilroy, CA. Over 33 miles of trails wind through the park, and can be enjoyed by hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bikers. The visitor center provides exhibits about the local wildlife, including live animals native to the park. Interpretive programs are offered year-round, and campfire programs are offered on Saturday evenings. The Lakeview Campground contains 73 reservable sites for those wishing to spend the night.
The 449 acre Coyote Lake is home to the rare western pond turtle, California tiger salamander, and many other reptiles and amphibians, along with numerous fish including black bass, bluegill, black crappie and Eurasian carp. Boating, jet-skiing, sailing, and fishing are just some of the opportunities for fun. Swimming is not allowed, however.