Henry W. Coe State Park, Morgan Hill, CA

If you like rugged, beautiful day-hikes and have 4 or 5 hours to spare, then Henry W. Coe State park is a great hiking opportunity. To get there, take the Dunne Avenue exit off highway 101 in Morgan Hill and head east on Dunne Ave. The last 10 miles of this road narrows and steepens as it winds its way up Pine ridge. Water and sunblock are a good idea.

I started my 5-mile journey at the Coe Ranch Headquarters. You can purchase a parking pass for $8 and get a free trail map at the visitor center. Go 0.5 miles on Monument trail before turning left on Hobbs Road. Note that if you detour along the 1.1-mile Ponderosa trail loop before hitting Hobbs Road, it can be difficult to follow due to the trail's narrowness and the overgrown plant life.


Follow Hobbs Road downhill for 0.8 miles before turning left on Flat Frog Trail and following the signs to Frog Lake. You'll be rewarded for your persistence with great views of the lake!


Retrace your steps for 0.2 miles, then continue left on Flat Frog Trail towards headquarters for 2.3 miles. Continue westwards on Coral Trail for 0.6 miles towards the park headquarters and the hike is complete.

Trail: Frog Lake Loop, with Ponderosa Trail extension, 5.3 miles
Difficulty: >Moderate (unshaded, thick vegetation in certain areas)

Thanks to Emilia for suggesting this hike!