Willow Springs Trail, CA

Warning This open space is still open range. Heed all warning signs and steer (pun intended) clear of cattle. There is no potable water on the trail, and during the summer/fall, the tall grass is a serious fire hazard. Be cautious.

Overview The trail starts at the base of the southern end of the San Felipe Hills just east of San Martin and climbs through rolling hills and past massive live oaks. This description ends at the Town Springs Trail's junction, but the Willow Springs Trail continues up into pines and eventually crosses a ridge overlooking both San Martin and Coyote Lake.

History The Harvey Bear open space is on the traditional lands of the Ohlone people, who were forced into missions by the Spanish during their colonization of the area. The land became an essential pasture for ranchers and eventually became part of the Santa Clara County Parks system in the early 21st century after much political back-and-forth. Most park trails, including this one, follow old 4x4 roads, and ranchers still use some.

Hike The hike is straight forward. From the parking lot, there are only two major trail options. One loops around a flat pasture and is paved. The other heads for the hills. Take this branch and head towards the hills yourself. The path is obvious, and after about 1/10th of a mile, you'll reach a gate. Cross through this, and the trail begins to rise following a drainage. Another 0.1 miles past the gate is a trail junction with the Harvey Bear Trail on the left (north). This can be used to make a 4+ mile loop, but the Willow Springs Trail continues following the drainage uphill. About 0.1 miles past the Harvey Bear Trail, there is another trail junction on the left, this one unmarked. This is not an official trail, though it is often used by members of the public. Instead, keep to the right and climb the hill's west side as the trail leaves the drainage. Climbing out of the drainage begins to offer a view to the south of Gilroy and Hollister, while Coyote Ridge and the pines become visible to the east/southeast. The trail wraps around towards the east and continues to climb, allowing a better view of the rest of Willow Creek Trail and the end of this segment at a prominent post on the left (north) side of the trail. Just before reaching the junction with the Town Springs Trail, the social trail that you bypassed at the base of the climb comes in on the left. From the signed junction, you can continue uphill to Coyote Ridge Trail or take Town Springs Trail. Both intersect the Harvey Bear Trail and loop back to the Willow Creek Trail. Alternately, you can turn around and proceed back down the trail the way you came. There are plenty of choices!

Water Sources None, bring your own.

Camping Allowed at the Lakeview Campground, but not on this trail.

Check out the Official Route and Triplog.

Leave No Trace and +Add a Triplog after your hike to support this local community.

2021-01-20 PaleoRob