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United States
California
Santa Clara County

Uvas Canyon County Park

The best walks and hikes in Uvas Canyon County Park

5.0

(13)

246

hikers

18

hikes

Hiking in Uvas Canyon County Park offers a diverse landscape characterized by lushly wooded canyons, year-round flowing creeks, and numerous waterfalls. Nestled on the eastern side of the Santa Cruz Mountains, the park features varied terrain with elevations ranging from canyon floors to ridgelines. Dense forests of tanbark oak, coast redwood, Douglas fir, and bay trees provide extensive shade along the trails. The presence of Swanson Creek and its tributaries creates a vibrant riparian environment throughout the park.

Best hiking…

Last updated: April 26, 2026

15

hikers

#1.

Knibbs Knob and Waterfall Loop

11.5km

04:06

660m

660m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

1.04km

00:20

10m

100m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

11

hikers

7.18km

02:39

460m

460m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Popular around Uvas Canyon County Park

Running Trails in Uvas Canyon County Park

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Road Cycling Routes in Uvas Canyon County Park

Cycling in Uvas Canyon County Park

Tips from the Community

maniboyflex
January 23, 2025, Uvas Canyon County Park entrance

Here is the entrance to Uvas Canyon County Park. The park has several small falls surrounded by forest, walking less than a mile in, you’ll find a waterfall. Here you can find water fountains, restrooms and a campground. This is the perfect place to end or start your ride.

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Max
July 4, 2024, Black Rock Falls

A cute waterfall but not much going on during summer (we were here in July).

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Max
July 4, 2024, Granuja Falls

This is a nice little pond to refresh in during the summer. The rest of the valley is really nice but a bit low on water in July.

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The Lower Falls in Uvas Canyon County Park isn't the biggest or the baddest of all the waterfalls in the area, but it's easy to get to and an easy addition to a longer hike. If waterfalls are your jam, make sure to check out the nearby Black Rock Falls.

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Nibbs Knob Trail is a fun trail that leads to an exposed overlook with a picnic table. Most of the trail on the way up is shaded, and there is tons of greenery and a waterfall to keep things interesting.

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This is a very small waterfall, which, with its nearby counterparts, makes the Waterfall Loop and Contour Trails special.

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Along the Alec Canyon Trail there is a nice viewpoint to take a quick breather and enjoy the views that overlook a valley and mountain ridges.

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This high point offers a great view of the surrounding mountains and wilderness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many hiking trails are available in Uvas Canyon County Park?

Uvas Canyon County Park features over 10 distinct hiking trails, offering a range of experiences from gentle creek-side walks to more challenging ascents. These routes allow you to explore the park's diverse landscapes, including lush forests and scenic waterfalls.

Are there many waterfalls to see in Uvas Canyon County Park?

Yes, Uvas Canyon County Park is renowned for its beautiful waterfalls, many of which flow year-round. You can discover several cascades like Basin Falls, Black Rock Falls, Granuja Falls, Triple Falls, and Upper Falls. The Granuja Falls – Black Rock Falls loop is a popular option to experience some of these natural wonders.

When is the best time to visit Uvas Canyon County Park to see the waterfalls?

The waterfalls in Uvas Canyon County Park are at their most impressive during late winter and early spring, especially after significant rainfall. This is when Swanson Creek and its tributaries are fullest, enhancing the flow of cascades like Basin Falls and Triple Falls.

Are the hiking trails in Uvas Canyon County Park suitable for families?

Yes, Uvas Canyon County Park offers several family-friendly options. The popular Waterfall Loop, which is part of the Waterfall and Contour Trails loop, is an easy to moderate hike that winds along Swanson Creek, providing spectacular views of waterfalls. The park also has picnic sites and amenities like flush toilets, making it convenient for families.

Can I bring my dog on the trails in Uvas Canyon County Park?

Absolutely! Uvas Canyon County Park is very dog-friendly. Leashed dogs are welcome on all hiking trails and in the campgrounds, making it an ideal destination for pet owners looking to explore the outdoors with their companions.

Are there any challenging hikes with good views in the park?

For those seeking a more strenuous experience, trails like the Knibbs Knob Trail offer significant elevation gain. This path leads to expansive views from higher points, reaching up to 2694 feet, providing a rewarding challenge and panoramic vistas of the surrounding area.

What kind of forests and trees can I expect to see while hiking?

Uvas Canyon County Park boasts diverse and dense forests, providing extensive shade. You'll hike through areas featuring tanbark oak, coast redwood, Douglas fir, oak, and bay trees. A self-guided interpretive trail offers insights into the local flora, including Bigleaf maple, California buckeye, and various ferns.

Are there any circular hiking routes available?

Yes, Uvas Canyon County Park has several excellent loop trails. A popular choice is the Waterfall and Contour Trails loop, which allows you to experience multiple features of the park without retracing your steps. Another option is the Granuja Falls – Black Rock Falls loop, offering a scenic walk through a riparian environment.

What do other hikers enjoy most about Uvas Canyon County Park?

The komoot community highly rates Uvas Canyon County Park, with an average score of 4.96 stars from over 10 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the park's scenic waterfalls, the lush, shaded forests, and the year-round flow of Swanson Creek, which creates a vibrant and refreshing atmosphere.

Is there parking available at Uvas Canyon County Park?

Yes, parking is available at Uvas Canyon County Park. It's advisable to check the park's official website or contact them directly for current information on parking fees and any reservation requirements, especially during peak seasons.

Are there facilities for picnicking or camping in the park?

Uvas Canyon County Park offers both picnicking and camping facilities. There are individual picnic sites available on a first-come, first-served basis, as well as reservable group picnic areas. For longer stays, the park provides 25 individual campsites and group camping areas, complete with amenities like flush toilets and hot showers.

What are the different difficulty levels of trails in Uvas Canyon County Park?

The trails in Uvas Canyon County Park cater to various fitness levels. You'll find easy walks, such as portions of the Waterfall Loop, moderate hikes like the Knibbs Knob Trail which involves significant elevation gain, and a few more difficult options for experienced hikers. Overall, there are 2 easy, 7 moderate, and 1 difficult routes available.

Most popular routes in Uvas Canyon County Park

Running Trails in Uvas Canyon County Park

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