Overview

Coal Creek is an ideal place for a quick afternoon hike with one's dog. Several trails can be combined to create a pleasant 2- or 3-mile loop. Views of the San Francisco Bay Area can be seen from the open grassland ridges below the Caltrans vista point parking area.

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Hiking: All Trails
Hiking: All Trails
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Bicycling: Designated Trails
Bicycling: Designated Trails
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Equestrian: Designated Trails
Equestrian: Designated Trails
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Dogs on Leash: Designated Trails
Dogs on Leash: Designated Trails
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No Easy Access
No Easy Access
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Camping: No Camping
Camping: No Camping
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Restrooms: Not Available
Restrooms: Not Available

Preserve Highlights & Features

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Waterfall at Coal Creek by Dean Birinyi
Waterfall at Coal Creek by Dean Birinyi

Waterfall

Seasonal waterfalls can be found in Coal Creek Preserve in the wetter winter months.

Stories from the Preserves

Nature

Here are some of the plants and animals that other visitors have observed at this preserve and recorded in iNaturalist. Protected species may be excluded and some species may not yet have been observed. Help improve iNaturalist by adding your observations to the Midpen Biodiversity Index project

Join our e-mail list to stay up-to-date on this preserve and other Midpen news! 

 

Know Before You Go

Preserve regulations help provide a safe, enjoyable visit while protecting sensitive areas and wildlife. 

Share the Trail 

  • Use designated trails to avoid damage to natural resources and prevent injury. 

  • Avoid blocking the trail. Step aside to allow others to pass .  

  • Whether you’re walking or biking, always yield to equestrians. 

  • Leave no trace. Pack out what you pack in. Most preserves do not have trash cans. Littering is prohibited. 

  • Abuses of trail etiquette should be brought to the attention of a ranger or call the Midpen main office at 650-691-1200. 

Activities & Events

History

Although Coal Creek Preserve is only around 500 acres, there is much to enjoy about its rich history. Once a place where Native Americans gathered and ground acorns and other seeds, purchase by Midpen saved this area from being turned into a residential subdivision.