Favorite trails close to the Bay Area (not Hollister)

[animaloverland]

My son just got a 2005 4Runner and I would like to find some moderate trails close to the Bay Area to explore with his rig and our JKU. His 4R has a 3" lift/ToyTec suspension, 33's and custom bumpers, so it is setup pretty well for the trails. I would appreciate any recommendations people have for interesting trails within a few hours driving (or closer) from Los Gatos. We know Hollister, but are looking for something more scenic.
Thanks,
Jason

 

[HellsAngler]

I believe theres some stuff up north along the coast if you google it. nothing crazy but cool views. or down by big sur

 

[animaloverland]

I believe theres some stuff up north along the coast if you google it. nothing crazy but cool views. or down by big sur

Thanks for the reply. We have done Usal Rd and a couple spurs on the Lost Coast up North and several fire roads near the Big Sur coast. Any hidden gems off 140,120,108,4,88,50,80...those areas? I can see some trails, but no idea what they are like.

 

[BCBrian]

As far as trails or off road parks within a 'few' hours of Los Gatos, choices are limited.

1. Near Patterson is Frank Raines OHV park. They close it during fire season but normally open in Oct and close in early May. This is a mixed use park with full size vehicles sharing trails with motorcycle, ATVs and side by sides.
2. Above Clear Lake is Cow Mountain but unfortunately, it is on fire right now. This is on BLM land.
3. Clear Creek south of Hollister on Hwy 25 has trails for all kinds of rigs but is primarily a motorcycle park. The state has been working to officially open it after years of closure but it is not gated and folks are going out there.
4. Carnegie near Livermore. This is basically a large flat dirt playground where trucks and 4X4s are allowed but the trails are closed to full size vehicles.
5. Corral Hollow trail near Bear Valley Ski Area on Hwy 4 is 4 hrs or so away. There are several trails in that area.

Further away -
Lakes Basin north of Truckee is a blast. There are numerous trails to run.
Signal Peak off of Hwy 80 looks great but I have never been there.
Bald Mountain east of Fresno above Shaver Lake is excellent.

I know that you mentioned Hollister as somewhere you know but it really is our best option in the south bay. Have you driven the trails in the Hudner Ranch side of the park, on the other side of Cienega Rd? There are several very fun moderate trails over there.