Mission Peak via Hidden Valley Trail, Fremont, California

Introduction

Mission Peak Trail is a 6.0-mile loop near Milpitas, California. The trail is rated as challenging and generally takes 3 hours and 59 minutes to complete. Climbers will have a strenuous ascent. The trail is replete with stunning views. Dozens of hikers attempt the over three-mile ascent up Mission Peak within this well-visited park, particularly on weekends. The Peak Trail goes all the way to the top of Mission Peak and climbs it from the northwest and southeast. In Addition, as much of the path is exposed, the less severe winter and spring months are the best times to climb Mission Peak. Airtopia Adventure Park is a top spot in California to visit with kids and family for fun and adventure.

Mission Peak Trailhead

MissionPeaktrailhead

Mission Peak Trail is a 6.0- 6.2-mile loop trail located in Milpitas, California, and has a strenuous climb of approximately 2500 feet. It should take approximately 4 hours to walk. The trail is accessible from multiple locations, roughly 40 miles from San Francisco, and also accessible from Ohlone College. Moreover, the hike is moderate-strenuous, but there are a couple of benches on the left-hand side in case you don’t feel you can walk the full distance.

Mission Trails—Kwaay Paay Peak

kwaay paay peak

At California’s Mission Trails Regional Park, the peak of Kwaay Paay is accessible to the hiker. Several trails wind to it, one of which is a 2.4-mile out-and-back that typically takes an hour and thirty-six minutes to complete. Aside from other Mission Trails peaks, such as North Fortuna Mountain and South Fortuna Peak, the mountain is part of a loop trail.

Mission Peak Trail Map

Mission Peak Hiking Trail

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In less than 3 miles, the trails gain approximately 2000 feet. Healthy hikers will have no problem with this 6-mile hike, but it can be challenging for good-condition beginners. With wonderful Fremont and Bay Area vistas, the very crowded Hidden Valley Trail takes us to the summit of Mission Peak. With a two-mile ascent of 2000 feet and great views of San Francisco Bay, Mission Peak, one of the East Bay’s most popular trails, is an excellent workout. Catalina Island is another perfect spot to spend your vacation with kids and family.

Mission Peak Trail Length

Within 3 miles, the trails ascend approximately 2000 feet. An able walker will not mind this 6-mile walk, but it is strenuous for beginner hikers who are otherwise in good condition. With stunning vistas of Fremont and the Bay Area, the very popular Hidden Valley Trail leads you atop Mission Peak. With a two-mile ascent of 2000 feet and stunning vistas of San Francisco Bay, Mission Peak, one of the East Bay’s most popular hikes, is an excellent workout.

Mission Peak Trailhead Reviews

Mission Peak Trail reviews

Mission Peak Trail is a well-used 6.2-mile Fremont, CA, trail with a tough climb and great views. Reviews mention the difficult hike, with the necessity of bringing water and possibly energy drinks. Some like the freedom of incorporating more mileage in the hike by taking a longer route to the top. It’s mostly described as a beautiful hike, but tough. The trail itself is rated very high, but caution is advised because it is steep. Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail Hike is another top trail if you are planning to enjoy a hike with kids and family.

Hidden Valley Trail Mission Peak

hidden valley california

The Hidden Valley Trail is a 6.2-mile out-and-back trail from Milpitas, California, to the summit of Mission Peak. It’s most commonly rated as a strenuous hike, and the average hike time is 4 hours. Fremont and the Bay Area are visible from the trail. The trailhead is the terminus of Stanford Avenue at the parking lot’s edge.

Mission Peak Ohlone Trail Parking

Parking for the Ohlone Trail to Mission Peak is available at Ohlone College, 43600 Mission Boulevard, Fremont. There are over 900 parking spaces, including Lots E, G, and H, and a new parking garage. Parking costs $4.00 for covered parking near the trailhead.

Mission Peak Trail Address

43600 Mission Blvd., Fremont, CA, is the primary entrance to access Mission Peak. Parking is available, and access points are Pine Street and Witherly Lane off Mission Boulevard, and Ohlone College. In addition, leashed dogs are permitted in developed areas. The park is open with variable hours.

Mission Peak Trail Conditions

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Mission Peak Trail is exposed to the sun and is hence hot and dusty, especially in the afternoon. It is advisable to start early in the morning to avoid the heat. The other trails in the vicinity will also likely be muddy or closed. The Park District is working hard to keep the trail open and restore the natural environment to its natural state by removing unauthorized trails.

Mission Peak Trailhead Photos

Mission Peak Trail photos

Base of Mission Peak Trail

The beginning of the Mission Peak Trail is only accessible from a couple of places. The trail is a 6.0-mile loop within Milpitas, California, and is typically rated difficult, requiring around 3 hours and 59 minutes to navigate. There is one trailhead that is located at Ohlone College, and it is referred to as the Peak Trail, which is a great summit hike. The trail approaches Mission Peak from the northwest and southeast.

Mission Peak Trail First Viewpoint

Mission Peak Trail viewpoint

The first view along the Mission Peak Trail is stunning, with South Bay views. The 6.2-mile round trip with 2500 feet of elevation gain starts at the Stanford Avenue Parking Area. The views justify the gruelling climb, and the trailhead is readily accessible. Koko Head Crater Hike is another top trail to hike on vacation.

Mission Peak Trail Weather

Mission Peak Trail weather

The Mission Peak Trail goes through varying weather conditions throughout the year. Summer is hotter and comparatively more humid. Although winter is chilly and windy, with a moderate climate, and winter is preferable for hiking. Overall, it is good weather for hiking in any month of the year.

Mission Peak Trail Camping

Camping is also available at Mission Peak, with a tent-only campsite a quarter-mile from the parking area trailhead, a 10-minute walk. The campsites are not accessible by motor vehicle. The hike to the summit itself is approximately 3 miles round-trip, with South Bay views.

Conclusion

Despite its rocky, uphill journey, the Mission Peak hike is a busy climb that is worth attempting. Because it is so busy, the trail occasionally creates parking problems. Erosion and off-trail travel are being addressed to maintain the natural integrity of the site. Although a brief outing, Mission Peak is not an easy ascent because it is a steady climb with a few steep points and little level ground. It takes planning, the correct equipment, and sensitivity to hiking etiquette to climb Mission Peak.

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