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Coyote Hills Regional Park | Overview
Coyote Hills Regional Park is a local East Bay destination located near Fremont, just about a 30-minute drive from either San Francisco or the South Bay. Loved by many locals, the park is made up of gentle hills and expansive wetlands, making it a great spot to visit in spring or early autumn when the weather is just right—not too hot, not too cold. The wetlands are often home to egrets, wild ducks, and all kinds of small animals. Most of the trails are flat and easy, perfect for families with kids or anyone looking for a relaxed walk. This area was once inhabited by the Ohlone people, and their village remains and a cultural Visitor Center are preserved within the park—offering a bit of history alongside nature and wildlife, all in one place.
Coyote Hills Regional Park | Itinerary & Highlights
Recommended Route
If you’re planning a laid-back weekend half-day nature outing, Coyote Hills Regional Park is a fantastic choice. Start your morning at the Visitor Center, then take a hike along the Bayview Trail combined with the Red Hill Trail—this route takes you from the wetlands up into the hills and spans around 3–4 km (about 1.5 hours round trip). After your hike, find a grassy spot or shaded area to picnic and rest. The park has a few picnic tables and open lawns. If you feel like stretching your legs some more after lunch, consider continuing along the Chochenyo Trail.
🔍 Pro Tip: Coyote Hills Regional Park is open daily, usually from 8 AM until dusk. Parking is $5. It’s recommended to arrive early to find a spot easily. There are no concessions in the park, so be sure to bring your own water and food.
Visitor Center
In addition to providing maps and restrooms, the Visitor Center has an engaging exhibit area. It features a small exhibition space that introduces the culture, history, and lifestyle of the Ohlone people. Inside, you’ll see a reconstructed “tule house”—a traditional dome-shaped shelter made of reeds—as well as displays of early tools. If you’re visiting with children, it’s like a small open-air museum. A bit further from the Visitor Center, you’ll find an Ohlone village site, an open-air exhibit with recreated structures, traditional farming tools, and cultural symbols. Plan to spend about 30 minutes here.
Nectar Garden
Right outside the Visitor Center, you’ll find a small and soothing Nectar Garden. This garden features a variety of native plants that attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators. The light floral scent and vibrant colors will make you want to slow down and enjoy the moment. In the cooler hours of the morning, it’s common to see butterflies fluttering and hummingbirds darting through the flowers. The garden is compact, taking about 10–15 minutes to explore leisurely.
Bayview Trail
This is the most recommended hiking trail in the park, and the name says it all—“Bayview.” Although not very long (about 2 km one way), the trail takes 1–1.5 hours to complete. It offers open views the whole way, winding past wetlands and low hills with panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay. On clear days, you can even catch glimpses of the city skylines of San Francisco and Palo Alto. Morning or evening hikes offer especially beautiful lighting.
This area is also part of a migratory bird route, and you’ll find several viewing platforms along the trail. There are plenty of chances to spot egrets, herons, and other birds.
If you’d like a bit more of a challenge, you can extend your hike by connecting to Red Hill Trail, which adds about 40 more minutes to your walk. At the top of Red Hill, there’s a small viewing platform with a sweeping view of the Fremont plains and wetlands. Birdwatchers can also start from the Visitor Center and head up the Quail Trail—a short 0.15-mile uphill path that connects to Bayview Trail. Along the way, you’ll see wetlands, salt ponds, and plenty of bird activity.
Further reading
- More Northern California posts
- More San Francisco posts
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