Fremont Peak State Park

Captain John Fremont was a bit of a rogue, but the peak given his name is anything but troublesome. Fremont Peak State Park is an easy jaunt from the greater San Francisco Bay Area, and when you arrive at the 3200-foot summit, the 360-degree views will, with luck, let you loftily look back into your yard. Compelling vistas of Monterey Bay and the San Benito and Salinas valleys will give you that conqueror’s feeling that pushed Captain Fremont on his escapades. Park trails are moderate, taking visitors through open grasslands and scrub-oak and manzanita-dappled hills filled with birdsong. After an engaging hike, wend your way back on the charming canyon road to San Juan Bautista, the Mission town, for a stroll through its historic sites, and a restorative lunch from one of its Mexican restaurants.

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A drive up to Fremont Peak State Park feels other-worldly. On many of the trails you look down on the clouds that muffle the noise of the roads below. It feels peaceful, serene, and remote despite the relative ease of your journey there. On certain nights, there are guided star-gazing tours led by knowledgeable volunteers. And you really feel like you're in heaven then, with the stars seemingly right at your fingertips.

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