Calero County Park: My weekly ramble #24

My weekly ramble #24

Happy Easter! We spent a wonderful, cozy day today with an easter egg hunt, mimosas, FaceTiming the family in Germany, the first Warriors Play-off game and some favorite people.

On Friday my friend and I went for a beautiful back country hike in Calero County Park, one of Santa Clara County’s most diverse regional parks. The 4,469 acre park is nestled in the eastern foothills of the Santa Cruy Mountains. Two distinct areas define this park: the reservoir, which offers a host of recreational activities and the adjoining “back country”. During the spring months it offers a spectacular display of wildflowers and breathtaking views.

We planned on hiking the Figueroa and Cottle Loop Trail, but had to turn around at about 3.5 miles because we had only limited time. The loop leads up to Bald Peak at about 1,400 feet.

“Figueroa and Cottle Loop Trail is a 8.5 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near San Jose, California that features a lake and is rated as difficult. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.”

We saw lots of wildflowers and it was a great hike with lots of up- and downhills and absolutely stunning views of the back country. It was so peaceful and away from all the hustle and bustle of the Silicon Valley. The park is only a 25 minute drive from my house and you are in a different world. On top of the ridge we could watch and listen to the wind making waves in the grass. So beautiful!

There were no other hikers on the trail than us, only at the very end we met a couple families starting their spring break walks. It was such a beautiful hike and we will be back soon to hike the full loop.