San Jose
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Description: One of the most challenging places to ride in the South Bay, Santa Teresa is often misjudged because of its proximity to urban San Jose housing and a maximum elevation of 1125 feet. In fact, Santa Teresa trails are very steep, and when they are not, they are very technical single track. We have put together a relatively easy 1000 footer, but any other ride in Santa Teresa is extremely difficult. However, if you have the technical riding skills, Santa Teresa can be a rewarding challenge. There are 17 miles of single track and fire roads in the park. Stiles Ranch trail is a very technical, rocky trail with tight switchbacks that many people find challenging to ride down; the real challenge is to ride up. Difficulty varies depending upon how recently the rangers have done trail maintenance and how recently rains have exposed the rocks. Rocky Ridge trail is more of the same, but more challenging and longer. Both of these trails may be closed during the wet season. Other trails are less technical, but contain very steep climbs. Dry conditions at the end of summer make riding Santa Teresa even more challenging with loss of traction and almost no shade cover. The Big Ride takes in most of the trails in the park, and just about all the single tracks comprising 45% of the route. There are many turns and a few trails in the middle of the park are traversed several times. The toughest single tracks, Rocky Ridge Trail and Stiles Ranch Trail are done in both the downhill and uphill directions on this route. The uphill ride is extremely difficult, only very experienced riders should attempt it.
The park offers nice views of San Jose, Almaden valley and Coyote valley. Restrooms at the Pueblo parking area, at the archery range, and at the Bernal – Joice Ranch.
During the wet season: The park is open, but Santa Teresa cannot be ridden after a recent rain, as the soil turns to very sticky mud. Some trails may be closed for the entire wet season.
Directions: There are multiple entrances to the park: All the recommended rides start at the Pueblo parking area at the Southern end of Bernal Avenue off of US 101 or SR 85. A link to the parking location in Google Maps is here. There are also parking lots at the archery range on Avenida Espana, and at the Bernal – Joice Historical Ranch on Manila Dr., both in the southern end of blossom valley, and at the end of Fortini Avenue in Almaden Valley. Parking is also available on city streets for other entrances.
