Top Places to See When Driving from Berkeley, California to Morgan Hill, California

California is a charming state that promises a lot of scenic drives, and one of them is from Berkeley to Morgan Hill. The 103 miles' journey takes you through different landscapes, from busy streets to pastoral hills, quaint towns, wineries, and vineyards. Whether it's a weekend getaway or a casual road trip, this route allows you to explore some of the best spots in the Bay Area. So, buckle up, grab a cup of coffee, and let's explore the top places to see when driving from Berkeley to Morgan Hill.

Pit Stop: San Francisco

San Francisco is a popular tourist destination, and if you're driving from Berkeley, you can't resist the charm of this beautiful city. The city has something for everyone, from scenic parks to remarkable architecture, great restaurants, and boutiques. You can spend a few hours roaming around its iconic landmarks, such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf, Crissy Field, The Painted Ladies, and Alamo Square. You can stroll through the Lombard Street, which is one of the crookedest streets in the world. Take a boat trip to Alcatraz Island and learn about its history as a notorious prison or take a ferry ride to the tranquil surroundings of Sausalito. Either way, this city will surprise you with its beauty.

Top Places to See When Driving from Berkeley to Morgan Hill

Claremont Canyon Regional Preserve

The Claremont Canyon Regional Preserve is a hidden gem tucked away in the Oakland hills. This Preserve offers excellent hiking and biking trails and mesmerizing views of the Bay Area. You can hike up the Stonewall Panoramic Trail, which offers 360-degree views, or walk down the Claremont Canyon Trail for a more shaded hike. The Preserve is dog-friendly too, so don't forget to bring your furry friends. Plus, the park is free to enter, and there are various picnic areas where you can take a snack break.

Redwood Regional Park

The Redwood Regional Park is nestled in the hills east of Oakland and offers the Bay Area's largest remaining natural stands of coast redwoods. With over 4,000 acres of woods and more than 150 tall redwoods, it's a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and be close to nature. There are plenty of hiking and biking trails that range from beginner to expert level. The French Trail, Stream Trail, and East Ridge Trail are three popular ones that take you through the heart of the forest. You can also have a picnic in one of the designated areas or play a game of horseshoes.

Sunol Regional Wilderness

The Sunol Regional Wilderness is a scenic park located in the hills south of Pleasanton. The park features oak-hued hills, tranquil streams, and beautiful wildflowers that bloom in the spring. There are plenty of hiking trails that range from easy to difficult. The Little Yosemite area is a popular spot that features cascading streams and small waterfalls that resemble Yosemite Valley. You can also fish for rainbow trout in Alameda Creek, which runs through the park. The park has a visitor center, picnic areas, and campgrounds, making it a perfect place to spend an entire day.

Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park

Gilroy Gardens is a family-friendly theme park located in Gilroy, featuring over 40 rides, gardens, exhibits, and attractions. The park is known for its natural setting and beautiful gardens, which boast over 10,000 trees and plants from around the world. The theme park has plenty of rides for all ages, including the famous Timber Twister, Sky Trail Monorail, and Quicksilver Express Mine Coaster. The park has a water play area, picnic areas, restaurants, and gift shops. Overall, it's a fun place to visit if you're traveling with kids or looking for thrill rides.

Morgan Hill Mushroom Mardi Gras

If you happen to be in Morgan Hill in the last weekend of May, make sure to stop by the Mushroom Mardi Gras festival. The festival celebrates the local mushroom industry and features live music, food, cooking demonstrations, and family-friendly activities. You can sample various mushroom-inspired dishes, such as mushroom risotto, mushroom pizza, and mushroom sandwiches, or buy fresh mushrooms to take home. The festival also hosts a parade, where locals and visitors dress up in mushroom-themed costumes and dance in the streets. It's a vibrant and unique festival that brings the entire community together.

Conclusion

The drive from Berkeley, California to Morgan Hill, California, is a beautiful journey that takes you through different landscapes and hidden gems in the Bay Area. From the picturesque views of Claremont Canyon Regional Preserve to the thrill rides of Gilroy Gardens, the trip offers something for everyone. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a family traveler, or an adventure seeker, these top places are a must-visit. So, pack a bag, grab your car keys, and hit the road – your adventure awaits.