Finding running trails not tech - Silicon Valley, CA
For nearly 25 years, I’ve worked at tech companies with operations in Silicon Valley. While I’ve never lived there, I have spent many days in the region. And, even though nearly all my time was capitalized by work, I still found time to keep up my training in beautiful and rugged locations.
Much of my work in the valley was in San Jose, CA that has great access to several areas that are in sharp contrast to the hustle and bustle experienced throughout the region. Three of my favorite places to trail run just a short distance from San Jose are:
From Santana Row in San Jose, these preserves are only a 15-20 minute drive. All are ideal spots if you can sneak out just before rush hour, bang out a 1 to 1.5 hour run, and then still be back for dinner with colleagues or clients. Running in the first two preserves is made up mostly of dirt roads maintained by PG&E for access to their towers in the area. In these preserves, once you run about a mile, it is extremely rare to see anyone. The Sierra Vista area had many more visitors than the first two. However, in the summer months it’s still very hot in the early evening, which keeps most people away.
If you can break out a little earlier from work, and have the benefit of a late sunset in the summer months, you can also drive down to Santa Cruz, CA for a run along the ocean shore. In only 45 minutes, you can be at the Wilder Ranch State Park. There are many running trails in the area, including one that follows the cliffs along the water.
No matter where you travel, there are almost always good running options just a short distance away. Even when working in the heart of Silicon Valley, it’s a surprise one can get out to such rugged nature so quickly. If you can find the time in your busy schedule, you are afforded peace and quiet, along with magnificent views of the valley.
