Penitencia Creek County Park

Park Overview

Located in San Jose, California, Penitencia Creek County Park unfolds across 163 acres as a linear park and regional trail. It's a collaborative green space, with Santa Clara County, the City of San Jose, and the Santa Clara Valley Water District all playing a part in its management. Whether you're looking for a morning jog route or a peaceful afternoon escape, this park offers a little breathing room from city life.

Trail System

The heart of the park is its four-mile trail that meanders alongside Penitencia Creek. Starting at San Jose's 720-acre Alum Rock Park, the path winds westward through the Berryessa and Alum Rock neighborhoods before eventually meeting up with Coyote Creek near Berryessa Road. Fair warning - you'll discover some gaps in the trail system as certain sections remain undeveloped, but most of it is ready and waiting for exploration.

Between White/Piedmont Roads and the Jackson/Mabury area, you'll find a mostly continuous path, however you'll need to cross streets at Capitol and Jackson Avenues. The paved portions are versatile enough for hiking, biking, or skating - making it a go-to spot for locals getting their daily exercise or walking their four-legged friends.

Natural Features

As you make your way through the parkway, you'll be treated to beautiful views of the surrounding hills - especially stunning in spring when everything turns a vibrant green. The creek itself adds character to the landscape, creating a peaceful soundtrack as you explore.

Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife and waterfowl - the small lake area is particularly popular with ducks. If you visit during the rainy season, you might catch the creek at its most dramatic, with small waterfalls and cascades bringing extra life to certain sections.

Amenities and Features

Within the park, you'll discover the Penitencia Creek Gardens, a 15-acre space ideal for leisurely strolls or picnics. You won't have trouble finding a spot to rest, as benches and picnic tables are scattered around the grounds.

Got kids in tow? There's a playground that will keep them entertained, conveniently located near restrooms. The open fields provide plenty of space for impromptu frisbee games or family gatherings, while shaded areas offer welcome relief when the California sun is doing its thing.

Regional Connections

This park is not only a standalone green space but also part of a bigger picture. The vision is to eventually create one continuous trail connecting Alum Rock Park to the Coyote Creek confluence, giving locals and visitors alike an extended green corridor through the urban landscape.

Visitor Information

The park welcomes visitors daily from 6AM to 7PM. Parking exists but can fill up quickly on weekends and fair-weather days. Many regulars opt to park in nearby neighborhoods and walk a short distance to the entrance. And yes, you can bring your dog - just remember to keep them leashed as you explore together.