17 TOP-RATED Hiking and Running Trails near Fremont, CA

Fremont has a diverse range of trails to suit all abilities. There are peaks to climb, canyons to run, and amazing views to soak in.

By Dan Wild
Published: November 14, 2021

Fremont is an excellent gateway for hiking. There are dozens of fantastic trails within a half-hour drive.

You can climb peaks, do birdwatching near charming lakes, or go backpacking. There are top-rated trails to suit every experience level.

Trails near Fremont:

Mission Peak Loop from Stanford Avenue
Canyon View Trail to Little Yosemite
Hidden Valley Trail
Bayview and Meadowlark Trail Loop
Courdet Trail
Monument Peak Trail
High Ridge Loop Trail
Thermalito and Ridgeline Trails Loop
East Shore and Heron Bay Trails Loop
Rose Peak
Lake Elizabeth Loop
Golden Eagle and Upper Ranch Trails
Western Pacific and Californio Trails Loop
Alameda Creek Regional Trail
Indian Joe Creek Trail and Hayfield Road Loop
Ohlone Wilderness Trail
Iron Horse Regional Trail

1. Mission Peak Loop from Stanford Avenue

Highlight: Challenging, steep climb to the peak with a stunning panorama of south Bay and San Jose, the Bay Area’s bucket list destination.
Type: Lollipop
Trail Length: 5.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,135 ft
Time to Complete: 3h
Difficulty: Hard
Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
Distance from Fremont: 9 miles (20 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Mission Peak Loop is a 5.8-mile loop near Milpitas, best used for hiking and trail running.

The trail is rated as difficult. It has a 2,153ft elevation gain and rocky terrain throughout the last half mile of the hike.

Hiking through the Mission Peak Regional Preserve, there are plenty of excellent views of South Bay. Once at the 2,497ft tall Mission Peak, you might see Oakland and San Jose on a clear day!

The problem with this trail is the lack of shade, as there are only a few spots on this route.

Still, it’s a well-developed and well-maintained route with a restroom about halfway into the hike where the Hidden Valley and Eagle trails merge. Overall, it is challenging but fun.

Related: 7 Fun Lakes near Modesto, CA

2. Canyon View Trail to Little Yosemite

Highlight: Charming loop with shaded sections, rich wildlife, and stunning landscape; perfect for trail running and hiking.
Type: Loop
Trail Length: 4.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 524 ft
Time to Complete: 2h 30min
Difficulty: Moderate
Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
Distance from Fremont: 15 miles (25 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Canyon View Trail to Little Yosemite is a 4.8-mile loop near Sunol, primarily used for dog walking, nature trips, and birdwatching.

This is a moderate trail with 524ft of elevation. Some scrambling is required at Little Yosemite to make the most of this trail, but it isn’t essential.

The trail follows Alameda Creek for large portions, with a small section running by Indian Joe Creek. Little Yosemite is a treat to see, but don’t be tempted to compare it to the real Yosemite – it’s called Little Yosemite for a reason.

Scrambling up Little Yosemite to see Alameda Creek passing through the rocks is fun but tricky. You’ll need sensible footwear and to be mindful that it’s slippy.

The trail is very well-maintained and developed. It has plenty of parking at the start of the hike, as well as restrooms, water points, and picnic areas.

3. Hidden Valley Trail

Highlight: Strenuous climb with stunning views of the Bay Area; exposed, steep and rocky, but the views are worth the effort.
Type: Out and Back
Trail Length: 6.1 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,847 ft
Time to Complete: 3h
Difficulty: Hard
Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
Distance from Fremont: 9 miles (20 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Hidden Valley Trail is a 6.1 mile out and back trail near Milpitas, used for hiking and nature trips.

This is another challenging hike. It only has 1,847ft of elevation, but it’s constant and difficult for hikers who aren’t experienced.

Hidden Valley Trail is essentially a dirt road winding past Agua Caliente Creek before skirting past Mission Peak towards the turnaround point. There are views of the entire Bay Area throughout the hike.

The main problem with this hike is the lack of shade again. Bring sun protection, hats, and water to beat the heat.

Be aware that the incline is steep the whole way, so bring extra water. There are four benches along the well-maintained route to rest at, too.

4. Bayview and Meadowlark Trail Loop

Highlight: Hilly hike with charming Bay Views; lots of birds and other wildlife; paved paths are stroller and wheelchair approved; great for running and bikes.
Type: Loop
Trail Length: 4.9 miles
Elevation Gain: 282 ft
Time to Complete: 2h 30min
Difficulty: Easy
Parking: Visitors Center: Google Maps
Distance from Fremont: 9 miles (20 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Bayview and Meadowlark Trail Loop is a 4.9-mile route near Union City, used for biking, hiking, and running.

This trail is easy for all skill levels, with just 282ft elevation gained. Most of the path is paved, which makes the hike easier.

Bayview and Meadowlark Trail Loop takes place in Coyote Hills Regional Park, so there are plenty of other trails to add to the challenge. The slightly steeper climb to Red Hill is one example, or the quick trip to the Tuibin shell mound site, left by the Tuibin Ohlone Indians 2000 years ago!

There is marshland near the Meadowlark portion of the trail, which many hikers complain has a foul smell in the heat.

Most people can look past this, though, and simply enjoy the easy-to-follow trail in the middle of the Coyote Hills Regional Park!

Related: 7 Fun Lakes near Modesto, CA

5. Courdet Trail

Highlight: Scenic trail to the Pleasanton Ridge; steep in places; more trails on the ridge; fantastic valley views.
Type: Out and Back
Trail Length: 3.9 miles
Elevation Gain: 984 ft
Time to Complete: 2h 30min
Difficulty: Moderate
Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
Distance from Fremont: 16 miles (25 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Courdet Trail is a 3.9 mile out and back trail near Pleasanton, used mainly by hikers, mountain bikers, and birdwatchers.

This trail is moderate with 984ft of elevation. There is plenty of shade, though, which makes the hike more manageable.

Courdet Trail starts in open grassland with plenty of wildflowers in bloom in Spring before heading through trees up Pleasanton Ridge, which has sweeping views of the area.

The biggest complaint about this trail is the initial incline which is quite steep and takes hikers by surprise. Come prepared for this with lots of water and rests.

Courdet Trail is a well-maintained route that’s easy to follow. It also has many trails you can add to your hike at the turnaround point to further explore the area.

6. Monument Peak Trail

Highlight: Long climb to the 2,546-foot peak; exposed, rocky terrain but not too steep; sweeping views all around.
Type: Loop
Trail Length: 9.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,290 ft
Time to Complete: 5h
Difficulty: Hard
Parking: Sandy Wool Lake Lot: Google Maps
Distance from Fremont: 14 miles (30 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Monument Peak Trail is a 9.8-mile loop near Milpitas, used primarily for hiking.

This trail is challenging and has a 2,290ft elevation gain. It heads up to Monument Peak, standing at 2,546ft, so be prepared for a challenge.

The route is filled with wildflowers and wildlife and has multiple points of interest, such as Scott Creek, Calera Creek, and Sandy Wool Lake. But the views of the valley and Bay Area from the summit of Monument Peak are what hikers come for!

Some areas of this hike are overgrown, but the trail is always easy to find and follow. Just be prepared for some slightly more overgrown sections.

Bring plenty of water and sunscreen because it gets hot, but reaching the top of Monument Peak is a rewarding experience for skilled hikers.

7. High Ridge Loop Trail

Highlight: Beautiful hike with lots going on: views, steep ascents, a pond, wildlife, and more trails in the area.
Type: Loop
Trail Length: 5.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,223 ft
Time to Complete: 3h
Difficulty: Moderate
Parking: Dry Creek Lot: Google Maps
Distance from Fremont: 7 miles (15 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

High Ridge Loop Trail is a 5.8-mile route near Union City, primarily used for hiking and dog walking.

This trail is also difficult. The 1,223ft elevation may not seem like much, but the lack of shade is hard to contend with, and the inclines at the start of the hike are challenging.

There’s lots to see here, from sweeping views of San Francisco Bay and the East Bay Hills all the way to the beautiful canyons and gorgeous Jordan Pond.

The only real complaint about this trail is that occasionally coyotes have been spotted. But deers and raptors are far more common and are great to see.

It is a simple route to follow, but some markers are a little worse for wear, so bring a map along, too, just in case. Other than that, it’s a fun but challenging hike.

Related: 7 Fun Lakes near Modesto, CA

8. Thermalito and Ridgeline Trails Loop

Highlight: Stunning hike along the ridgeline with sweeping views and an olive grove; can be shortened or extended; perfect for MTBs.
Type: Loop
Trail Length: 6.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,325 ft
Time to Complete: 3h
Difficulty: Moderate
Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
Distance from Fremont: 11 miles (25 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Thermalito and Ridgeline Trails Loop is a 6.2-mile route near Sunol, used for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking.

This trail is moderate, with 1,325ft of elevation. However, it is also kid-friendly, so most hikers should complete it with some rest here and there.

The trail offers impressive views of San Francisco Bay. It also takes you through oak tree-lined trails and a fun section of olive trees planted when a rancher owned the land.

This trail is on the easy side of moderate, but hiking in summer makes it more challenging as there’s very little shade.

Yet, the route is well-developed and has a few water stations throughout to fill up on water and several benches. Overall, it’s a great family hike.

9. East Shore and Heron Bay Trails Loop

Highlight: Gorgeous Lake Del Valle hike with stunning views and well-maintained trails; it can be shortened or extended.
Type: Loop
Trail Length: 4.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 849 ft
Time to Complete: 2h 20min
Difficulty: Moderate
Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
Distance from Fremont: 20 miles (30 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

East Shore and Heron Bay Trails Loop is a 4.4-mile loop trail near Livermore. It’s great for hiking, running, and nature trips.

This trail is moderate, with 849ft of elevation. The incline at the start of the loop is challenging, so come prepared for that.

East Shore and Heron Bay trails lead to the stunning Heron Bay of Lake Del Valle. At the lake, there is a seating area to savor the views of the water and nearby hills.

Depending on the time of year, the hills and grassland may be brown, which some hikers complain about. Head in with an open mind and accept the sights as they are, and this hike will still be enjoyable.

The views are amazing, the trail is easy to follow, and the area is well-developed; what else to wish for!

10. Rose Peak

Highlight: Long and grueling hike to the stunning peak with 360-degrees panorama; plenty of campsites; superb for backpacking.
Type: Out and Back
Trail Length: 18.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 3,969 ft
Time to Complete: 10h
Difficulty: Hard
Parking: Sunol Regional Wilderness: Google Maps
Distance from Fremont: 16 miles (30 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Rose Peak is an 18.6 mile out and back trail near Sunol, primarily used for hiking, camping, and backpacking.

This trail is strenuous, with 3,969ft of elevation over 18.6 miles. Only the most experienced hikers should attempt the entire route.

Starting at Sunol Regional Park, this hike winds past Alameda Creek towards Rose Peak, standing at 3,817ft. Views of Mount Diablo and the Bay Area are unrivaled from here.

Some hikers complain that the route itself is boring, but there are plenty of wildflowers and lush trees to look at in spring.

The path is well-maintained, and there are multiple campsites and creeks along the route. It’s a real challenge but a gratifying trip!

Related: 7 Fun Lakes near Modesto, CA

11. Lake Elizabeth Loop

Highlight: Short and flat loop around the lake with pleasant views and lots of birds; stroller and wheelchair approved.
Type: Loop
Trail Length: 2.1 miles
Elevation Gain: 9 ft
Time to Complete: 1h
Difficulty: Easy
Parking: Lake Elizabeth Lot: Google Maps
Distance from Fremont: 3 miles (10 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Lake Elizabeth Loop is a 2.1-mile path and one of the best family hiking trails near Fremont. It’s primarily used for running, walking, and road biking.

This trail is easy for all skill levels, with an unnoticeable 9ft of elevation. The path is paved throughout and is kid-friendly, too.

The route is all about Lake Elizabeth, and it follows the perimeter the entire way. It’s a perfect family trip in the middle of Fremont Central Park.

Some keen hikers will complain that it isn’t a challenge, but it’s not supposed to be. It’s just a perfect area for a relaxing hike with friends and family.

It’s well-developed, with an 8ft wide smooth concrete path the entire way. There are also plenty of benches, water stations, and restrooms all around the park.

12. Golden Eagle and Upper Ranch Trails

Highlight: Stunning but short loop with sweeping views all around; hilly but not too steep; great for MTBs and hiking.
Type: Lollipop
Trail Length: 3.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 462 ft
Time to Complete: 2h
Difficulty: Moderate
Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
Distance from Fremont: 8 miles (20 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Golden Eagle and Upper Ranch Trails is a 3.6-mile loop and a great example of the many hiking trails near Fremont. It’s mainly used for hiking and mountain biking.

This trail is moderate, with 462ft of elevation gained. Most of the incline is up towards the Upper Ranch Trail after hiking the Golden Eagle trail, so be prepared for this.

The trail offers fantastic views of Fremont, Union City, and San Francisco Bay from the East Bay hills. The Upper Ranch Trail also has excellent views of Niles Canyon below.

This route has little shade, and there are reports of snakes throughout the trail, which can be offputting for some.

Overall, the trails are well-marked and easy to follow, and the beautiful Vargas Plateau Regional Park has a lot to offer!

13. Western Pacific and Californio Trails Loop

Highlight: Flat loop in Quarry Lakes Park; gravel and paved trails; perfect for birdwatching and nature trips.
Type: Loop
Trail Length: 3.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 68 ft
Time to Complete: 2h
Difficulty: Easy
Parking: Isherwood Staging Area: Google Maps
Distance from Fremont: 3 miles (10 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Western Pacific and Californio Trails Loop is a 3.6-mile route near Fremont, primarily used for hiking, running, and birdwatching.

It is easy for all skill levels, with just 68ft of elevation. The trails loop around Quarry Lakes Regional Park, so it’s a well-developed route.

The route passes multiple lakes, including Horseshoe Lake, Rainbow Lake, and Lago Los Osos. It also passes Alameda Creek during part of the route.

The main problem with this hike is how busy it is, but with it being such an excellent option for outdoor exercising in Fremont, it’s no surprise.

The area is well-developed, well-maintained, and easy to follow, with multiple other trails, making it a great place to return to.

Related: 7 Fun Lakes near Modesto, CA

14. Alameda Creek Regional Trail

Highlight: Beautiful urban route running alongside Alameda Creek; paved and gravel sections; flat and easy; great for biking, running, and hiking.
Type: Out and Back
Trail Length: 22.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 200 ft
Time to Complete: 11h
Difficulty: Easy
Parking: Niles Canyon Staging Area: Google Maps
Distance from Fremont: 3 miles (10 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Alameda Creek Regional Trail is a 22.5 mile out and back trail near Fremont, used for road biking, running, and hiking.

This trail is easy for all skill levels with just 200ft of elevation, although it is lengthy if completing the entire route.

Completing the trail is worth it, though, as it follows Alameda Creek to San Francisco Bay, and views across the water here are stunning.

The only complaint is the lack of shade, so bring plenty of water and sun protection when attempting this trail.

It’s a well-maintained route that’s easy to follow – if you lose Alameda Creek, then you’ve gone wrong. There are also plenty of places to rest, stock up on water, and even have lunch along the route.

15. Indian Joe Creek Trail and Hayfield Road Loop

Highlight: Charming area with creek crossings, shaded sections, and stunning views; can be extended; perfect for runners and hikers.
Type: Loop
Trail Length: 5.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,207 ft
Time to Complete: 2h 30min
Difficulty: Moderate
Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
Distance from Fremont: 15 miles (25 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Indian Joe Creek Trail and Hayfield Road Loop is a 5.3-mile route near Sunol, used mainly by hikers, runners, and birdwatchers.

This trail is moderate, with a 1,207ft elevation gain. The surface is good but becomes very muddy in the rain.

It follows Indian Joe Creek for a large section, and the sound of running water is constant on this trail. There are plenty of wildflowers and wildlife along the route too.

Also, there are stubborn but curious cows along this route. Sometimes they block the path and refuse to move, which can be disappointing. Don’t wear red!

16. Ohlone Wilderness Trail

Highlight: Rewarding backpacking route that passes Rose Peak, rich with wildlife, and has stunning views; plenty of campsites.
Type: Point to Point
Trail Length: 19.1 miles
Elevation Gain: 4,914 ft
Time to Complete: 10h
Difficulty: Hard
Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
Distance from Fremont: 15 miles (25 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Ohlone Wilderness Trail is a 19.1-mile point-to-point trail near Livermore, primarily used for backpacking, camping, and hiking.

This trail is strenuous, with a whopping 4,914ft of elevation over rocky terrain. The lack of shade makes this even harder on warmer days too.

This is an excellent example of the East Bay backcountry, which is so lush and filled with wildlife – a surprise being so close to the metropolitan areas nearby. Eagles and hawks are familiar sights along this stunning nature-filled route.

The only problem with this trail is the lack of shade. Hot days make this trail almost impossible because of the steep inclines too.

Bring sun protection year-round, choose cooler days, and make sure you’re up for the challenge before attempting this tough but rewarding hike.

Related: 7 Fun Lakes near Modesto, CA

17. Iron Horse Regional Trail

Highlight: A highly-rated rail-trail with a mix of urban and wild scenery; asphalt all the way; stroller and wheelchair friendly; cycling paradise.
Type: Point to Point
Trail Length: 27.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 285 ft
Time to Complete: 14h
Difficulty: Easy
Parking: On the Street: Google Maps
Distance from Fremont: 17 miles (30 min)
Dog Friendly: Yes

Iron Horse Regional Trail is a 27.8-mile point-to-point rail-trail near Pleasanton, best used for running, hiking, and road biking.

It is easy for all skill levels, with just 285ft of elevation. However, it’s best not to complete the whole route from Pleasanton to Concord without proper planning.

This paved trail is popular with walkers and cyclists, but it’s great for rollerblading and skating, too. It is also suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.

The main problem with this route for hikers is that it is just a popular paved path from Pleasanton to Concord, so there is very little nature around.

Sometimes a hike through metropolitan areas helps you get to know the area better, though, and it’s a great warm-up for more difficult trails in the area!

Final Thoughts

Fremont is great for hiking, and you don’t have to drive far to enjoy its trails. Still, there are plenty of excellent options if you’re willing to venture further afield.

For example, the Bay Area offers world-famous views which can be easily accessed from Fremont. Here is a list: Best Hikes in SF and Bay Area.

If you are looking for a peaceful wilderness experience without crowds, try Henry W. Coe State Park. It is a vast place with hundreds of miles of trails and just 1 hour away from Fremont.

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