Monte Bello Open Space Preserve

Italian for “Beautiful Mountain”, Monte Bello Open Space Preserve is a place of rolling grasslands, dense creekside forests, and spectacular vistas. The preserve encompasses the upper Stevens Creek watershed from Monte Bello Ridge to Skyline Ridge. The 3,436-acre preserve is one of the District's richest in wildlife and ecosystem diversity. From the top of Black Mountain, visitors have an incredible view of Santa Clara Valley and the Mt. Hamilton Range. On clear days, visitors can see beautiful sunsets from the Black Mountain backpack camp, or watch the fog roll in from the coast.

Monte Bello Preserve is surrounded by other open space preserves and parks, which makes trip options nearly limitless.

Dog, Bike, and Equestrian Access Limited: Activities may not be designated on all trails within the Preserve-- always refer to the map and trail signage for where the activity is permitted.

Additional Information

Good For

Families

Wheelchairs

Activities

Hiking

Mountain Biking

Horseback Riding

Tent Camping

Backpacking

Geocaching

Rules & Regulations

No Dogs

No Illegal Substances

No E Bikes

Accessibility Description

Stevens Creek Nature Trail • 500 ft.: This trail leads to a dramatic vista point with a stone bench overlooking Stevens Creek Canyon.

Visit the Easy Access Opportunities page for additional information.

Regulations

Hours: Open half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset.
Dogs: Dogs are NOT allowed in this Preserve. For information on dog-friendly preserves visit the Dog Access page. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Midpen accommodates service dogs in Preserves wherever we allow public access.
Bicyclists: Bikes are allowed on designated trails in this Preserve. Helmets are required for all riders at all times. Please observe the 15-mph trail speed limit (5-mph when passing or approaching blind turns). For more information visit the Bicycle Access page.
Equestrians: Horses are allowed on designated trails in this Preserve. Helmets are recommended for all equestrians. For more information visit the Equestrian Access page.
Groups: For safety reasons, permits are required for all groups of 20 or more people.
Permits: A use permit is required for any activity or event which: may be attended by twenty (20) or more people; OR is advertised or noticed in any publication, poster, electronic posting or flyer; OR requests/requires a fee be paid for participation. Visit the Permit page for more information.
Fires: Fires are prohibited on preserves.
Smoking: Smoking is prohibited on preserves
Weapons: Weapons of any kind are prohibited on preserves.
Plants and Animals: Please leave plants and animals undisturbed. This not only preserves the natural environment, but is also a safety precaution.
Water Areas: Swimming wading, or engaging in any water-contact activity in any water areas of the District is prohibited.