Communications Hill is a low rise south of downtown San Jose with one of the best free views in the city. A 252-step concrete staircase climbs from the foot of the hill to the residential neighbourhood on top, and from the summit you can see most of the Santa Clara Valley spread out below — downtown to the north, the Diablo Range to the east, and the South Bay sprawl in every direction.
The climb is a popular fitness route at sunrise and sunset, when the light is best for photography. The hill is reached by car from Pearl Avenue or via VTA bus; expect to spend forty minutes to an hour for the climb, the view, and the descent. Wear shoes you can run in if you want to fit in with the locals.