hard
Activities
Indian Rock Trail Information
This trail takes you on a long climb to the crest of the Santa Cruz Mountains. It’s worth the effort for the views at Indian Rock.
Watch for:
Pacific wren, black-headed grosbeak, Cassin's vireo and many other birds.
Hiking Details for Indian Rock Trail
Distance: 9 miles round trip
Elevation change: 1800′ elevation gain
Hiking time: 5-6 hours
Trail surface: Packed dirt, mostly shaded
Best Season: year round
Managing agency: Santa Clara County Parks
Parking lot location: Click here for directions
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 and 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.
Indian Rock Trail Photo Gallery
More About Sanborn County Park
In 1985, POST protected 117 acres near Sanborn County Park and soon after transferred that land to Santa Clara County Parks for permanent management and protection. POST also holds a 15-acre conservation easement on a property adjacent to the existing park.