Bayview Trail

Mount Madonna County Park is a short drive from Watsonville or Gilroy, California. There are many short hiking trails that are interconnected to make one big network, and each of the trails becomes a fairly easy hike through the Redwood forests of Santa Clara County. Whether you want to take your dog for a walk or ride your horse through the many designated equestrian trails, Mount Madonna has many options. The Bayview trail is a short 2.5-mile there-and-back trail, and you'll have the opportunity to stitch other trails together to create a loop. There are many wildflowers, birds, and other forest wildlife: turkey and mule deer are a common, and you may spot a fox or a bobcat. If you prefer a little history, the ruins of the Henry Miller summer home can be found on the Tan Oak and Henry Miller Trail. Other trails will lead you to an archery range and an amphitheater. Camping, RV hook-ups and yurts are available if you want to take your time to explore this park in detail. Wherever you end up exploring, you'll want to stick to the trails to avoid the exposed poison oak in the area.