Mt. El Sombroso via Kennedy Trail(edit)

Overview

This is a moderate out and back trail to Mt. El Sombroso in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve.

The hike starts out fairly level but heads up shortly after and climbs mostly continuously until the top of the ridge. Some sections, especially near the top, are very steep. While it requires a bit of effort going up, it provides a dramatic view of the Valley on the way down. Once on the ridge the trail has ups and downs as it continues to Mt. El Sombroso.

There are nice views of the Valley before the El Sombroso spur and views of Mt. Umunhum and to the south of Santa Clara Valley at the “top”. It’s not really the top though, the trail ends under the utility structures and there’s no path to the actual top.

The trail is a well maintained service road the entire way. Watch for animal tracks in the dusty or muddy sections. Most common are deer, coyote, bobcat, and mountain lion tracks.

Getting Started

There’s only room for a few cars in the official parking area. If they’re taken you can park along Top of the Hill Road across the street.

Taking Children

The trail is wide and well maintained but it’s steep and long. It’s not a place where you want to end up carrying someone!