Located along the Alviso slough and next to salt ponds and marshes sits the Alviso Marina County Park. The land has multiple trails, plus it's beautiful at sunrise and sunset. The park also fun activities like the Alviso Boat Tour and self-guided kayaking. 1195 Hope St., San Jose
Just west of Los Gatos is the 1,614-acre El Sereno Preserve. There's tons of hiking and biking trails, and dogs are welcome. Much of the seven miles of trails offer panoramic views of Silicon Valley and Sierra Azul. Visitors can even spot some wildlife like coyotes or mule deer. Santa Clara County
For the perfect escape, visit the Rancho San Antonio Preserve where 3,988 acres of space and more than 25 miles of trails await. Visitors can stroll through the park or ride on the equestrian trails. You can even stop by the turn-of-the-century working farm, Deer Hollow Farm. Cupertino
Redwood Grove is a mini Muir Woods look-alike with its luscious and tall trees. While smaller than others, this park still has tons to offer. Take a walk along the boardwalk, have lunch in the picnic areas or explore the Adobe Creek on the Hillside Trail. 482 University Ave.
The Ulistac Natural Area sits along the Guadalupe River and remains the last 40 acres of undeveloped and natural land in Santa Clara. Local volunteers are committed to keeping the space as is, and it is the perfect place to learn about nature ecosystems, jog along the trails or bird watch. 4901 Lick Mill Blvd.