For all weekend hiking, pre-booking is required! Please book through Eventbrite.

As spring slows down, so does guided hike programming at Máyyan ‘Ooyákma - Coyote Ridge. The Open Space Authority is hosting several themed hikes, as well as Fresh Air and Flowers Hikes, throughout the month of May. 

We will not be hosting hikes that start later than 10:30 a.m., for visitor comfort and safety. 

Fresh Air & Flowers Hike

Best for people more interested in hiking and fitness, and less interested in learning about educational interpretive elements in the preserve

• Guided, steady and fast-paced
• Minimal stops
• Setting where a group is guided by a volunteer or staff member
• Pre-booking required
• May 10, 17, 23, 24, and 30  | 10:30 a.m.
  • Saturdays: Full loop, more rigorous (5.5 miles)
  • Sundays: Up-and-back hike (3 miles)

Birding at Máyyan ‘Ooyákma-Coyote Ridge

Saturday, May 9, 2026  |  9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Join Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority and Santa Clara Valley Bird Alliance for an engaging bird experience! On Migratory Bird Day we will be seeking some special spring-time migrants as well as our resident birds. This hike will involve a meandering 2.5-3 mile hike up the Bay Checkerspot Trail and back, about 500 ft of elevation gain. Binoculars are essential for the best birding experience.

Tule Elk Walk and Talk

Saturday, May 16, 2026  |  10:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Did you know we have elk just 15 minutes south of San Jose? Come join us for a hike at Máyyan ‘Ooyákma to learn all about the recovery of this incredible species, their habitat, home range and specific habits during this time of year. You will get to hold an elk antler, search for elk scat and hear their mating call-- the bugle!  This hike will cover the full 5.5 mile loop in the preserve, which includes over 1,000 ft. of elevation gain. Come prepared with close-toed shoes, hiking poles, layers, snacks, sun protection and plenty of water for this walk and talk!

Geology Walk

Sunday, May 31, 2026  |  10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Coyote Ridge is rich in fascinating geology! Join Open Space Authority docents for a fun and enriching hike along the Tule Elk Trail to learn the secrets behind the geological happenings that have taken place. The hike will start at the Serpentine Springs Trail and go around the entire loop, 5.5 miles total and 1,000 ft. of elevation gain. Please come prepared with water, good hiking shoes, poles, snacks and sun protection for this strenuous and educational experience.