Trail length: 2.4 miles
Trail type: Paved
Trail ratings: Easy
Trail usage: Hikers, bicycles, horses, dogs, and wheelchairs
I haven’t wheelchair-hiked too many paved-loop trails and the few that I have hiked have been very short. This is why I am so impressed with the 2.4 mile Martin Murphy Trail at Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch Park. The first time I visited this park was when the rolling hills and meadows were painted in a mixture of green grass and spring wildflowers. I found myself constantly stopping on the trail to admire and appreciate the beauty that presented itself. Various species of birds will keep you company as you make your way around the trail loop. At the end of the trail, you can enjoy wheeling up to one of the accessible picnic tables which now have new shade structures.
There isn’t much shade on the trail so the best time to visit is during the morning or late afternoon. There are rest areas and a water fountain located on the trail. The park has one handicap parking spot and a porta potty that is wheelchair accessible.
Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch Park is located in San Martin (Gilroy). From Hwy 101, take the San Martin Ave exit. Go east on San Martin Ave for about 1.5 miles. The entrance to the park is on the left.
To watch a slideshow of the Martin Murphy Trail, please watch my video
