Metcalf Motorcycle County Park

Trail System

Found in the rolling, grass-covered hills of southeast Santa Clara Valley, this spot offers about 20 miles of marked trails for your two-wheeled (or four-wheeled) adventures. One thing to remember: all trails run one-way here, with difficulty levels clearly marked on carsonite posts around the park.

Spread across 457 acres, the park has trails for riders of all levels - whether you're an advanced rider looking for a challenge, an intermediate enthusiast honing your skills, or a beginner just getting your wheels dirty. The wider trails are perfect if you're riding a bigger bike or practicing for those Backcountry Discovery Routes (BDR) you may be dreaming about.

Specialized Riding Areas

Beyond the main trails, Metcalf offers several spots designed for specific riding styles. You can find a proper motocross competition track for those looking to catch some air, a mini-motocross track that's ideal for smaller bikes, a gentle beginner's oval for newcomers, and dedicated hill climb areas for the brave at heart.

Tech-riding enthusiasts will appreciate the three trials obstacle courses scattered throughout the park. And if you're looking to test your mettle, the challenging hill climb has become something of a local legend among experienced riders.

Family-Friendly Amenities

The park offers amenities that make it suitable for a full day visit. You'll discover plenty of picnic tables within the park, including some thoughtfully placed along the trails for mid-ride breaks. Clean restrooms and porta-potties are conveniently located around the grounds, so you're never too far from facilities.

Feel free to bring your four-legged friends along - the park is dog-friendly with designated areas and waste disposal bags available. There's also ample parking, making it easy to unload your bikes and gear without hassle.

Educational Programs

If you've got kids who are into riding, check out the Junior OHV Ranger Program offered in spring and fall. This cool initiative is designed for children aged 9-12 who have their own motorcycles and covers everything from basic skills to safety equipment, rider etiquette, and trail conservation.

The rangers here are incredibly helpful and patient, especially with newcomers to off-road riding. Many parents find this to be an excellent spot to introduce children to dirt biking in a controlled, safe environment.

Environmental Stewardship

Riding here comes with the knowledge that you're enjoying a responsibly managed space. The park implements both a Habitat Management Plan and Soil Conservation Plan to balance recreation with environmental preservation.

While you're catching your breath between rides, take a moment to appreciate the beautiful valley views and surrounding hillscapes. On clear days, you might even spot the telescopes on Mount Hamilton in the distance.

Visitor Information

A day of riding will set you back just $6 per vehicle - a small price for hours of trail access. If it's your first visit, make sure to stop by the office when you arrive. Note that the park takes a mid-week breather, closing on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and only green sticker bikes are permitted to comply with environmental regulations.

Though Metcalf may be more compact than some other OHV parks, the trails are well-maintained and regularly groomed, offering a relatively dust-free experience - particularly pleasant after a light rain has settled the terrain.