Almaden Quicksilver County Park is an expansive park located in South San Jose. At over 4,000 acres, Almaden Quicksilver provides plenty of great dog friendly hiking trails. 


There is some great history here as this area was the location of mercury (a.k.a. "quicksilver") mines which produced mercury used in processing gold & silver ore during the gold rush. 

There are remnants of structures scattered throughout the park, making this a unique and interesting hiking spot. 

Check out the museum located in New Almaden when you come here!

Pulgas Ridge OSP is somewhat unique in that it is the only open space park in the South Bay area that allows dogs off-leash. Although the trails are on-leash, there is an area in the center of the park where you can let your dog run crazy. 

There are a few nice options for hiking trails here. Today's hike began at the short connector to the trail along Hassler Rd which leads into the park. We took Polly Geraci Trail to Dick Bishop Trail and then briefly connected to the paved Hassler Trail, leading into the off-leash area. 

After some good off-leash fun, we backtracked on Hassler Trail to connect to Dick Bishop Trail and then made a right on Blue Oak Trail, for about a 3mi. hike. For a longer hike, take Dusky-footed Woodrat Trail. 

If you have not been to Pulgas yet, definitely check it out!

Lexington Reservoir County Park boarders St. Joseph's Hill Open Space Preserve, both offering some great trails for a hike with your dog. Lexington's easy access and location make it a popular spot for bikers, trail runners and casual hikers. 


The trails here provide some nice climbs, making this spot a good choice if you want to burn some calories!