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Chamise Trail

4.4 ★★★★☆ 11 Google reviews · Running trail in Palo Alto, California · Hours vary

Runner's snapshot

Surface
Not reported
Distance
Not reported
Shape
Not reported
Shade
Not reported
Access
Not reported

We have not been able to confirm the surface, distance or shape of Chamise Trail yet from its own listing, the park's website or runner reviews — so those cells stay blank rather than guess. What is below comes straight from the listing and from reviewers' own words. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.

What runners say about Chamise Trail

Pulled from public reviews of this trail (11 of them) — the things people bring up again and again, in their own words. Nothing here is written by us.

It’s definitely harder than easy trail. Be prepared. Not the hardest but has an elevation for most of the trip.

★★★★☆ — P , Feb 2023

Mild, 0.9 mile, mostly shady trail that takes you to the lake. Nice overlook area along the way

★★★★☆ — Teresa , Mar 2021

Was there 6-7 yrs ago, pleasant experience! Beautiful hiking trail not far from Palo Alto

★★★★☆ — Michael , Jan 2024

Excerpts from public Google reviews. Read all 11 reviews →

Plan your run at Chamise Trail

The practical stuff

  • AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
  • DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
  • ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
  • Phone(650) 329-2423

Where to find Chamise Trail

Chamise Trail, Palo Alto, CA 94304

Get directions

Running trails near Palo Alto

Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.

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under a mile away

Arastradero Creek Trail

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Foothills Open Space Preserve

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Nature preserve with 212-acres of wooded ridges & ravines & an uphill trail leading to bay vistas.

under a mile away

Byrne Preserve

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ShadedScenic

Scenic pasture backed by wooded hills and rolling hills, with laid-back walking trails and wildlife.

1.4 miles away

All running trails in Palo Alto, CA →

Nearby towns

Listing verified July 2026 from public records, the trail's own website and runner reviews. Trail conditions change — paths flood, gates close at dusk, and shaded woods stay muddy for days after rain. Something out of date? Report a correction. Manage this trail? Send us the details — it is free.