RANCHO CAñADA DEL ORO OPEN SPACE PRESERVE

Leader: Ron Gasparinetti

Leader Email: sfbahiker@gmail.com

Leader Phone: 650 759-5345

Meeting Date and Day: Saturday, November 7, 2020

Meeting Time: 10:15 AM

Departure Time: 10:30 AM

Meeting Place: We'll meet at overflow parking for the staging area on Casa Loma Rd.  It's just a little ways up Casa Loma Rd. from the main parking.  Restrooms are located at the main staging area.  The overflow parking is closer to the trailhead and the main parking area will most likely be filled if it's a nice day. Suggested driving route: 280S > 85S > 101S > Bailey Ave > McKean Rd > Casa Loma Rd.  Estimated driving time from San Francisco 1hr. 20 min. approximately 75 miles one way. 

Navigation Links:   Google Maps Link   Apple Maps

Rating:  Level 3

Mileage: 8.6 miles

Elevation Gain: 1768 ft

Description:  Rancho Cañada del Oro open Space Preserve is a lovely little gem of a place located in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains in South Santa Clara County.  We'll stay primarily on the Serpentine loop trail that will take us along the perimeter of the Calero County Park on its northern extremity.  The trail is a 50/50 mixture of sun and shade.  It's a quiet and relaxing hike but does have a few challenging ascents.  

All of the usual directives, masks, distancing..... MUST be followed.  These initial hikes will be limited to 12 people.
Below are the regulations:

• We need to stay at least 6' apart at all times;
• You need to keep whatever type of mask you prefer around your neck at all times to be prepared to put it in place at a moment's notice when encountering others.  Some prefer to wear a mask at all times - even better!  The easiest solution some of us have found is to wear a bandana around your neck, shifting it up over your nose and mouth when passing or speaking with others;
• Ideally, unless you're members of one household, there should be one passenger in the back right seat only.  Drivers and passengers can decide what they feel comfortable with.  
• Hike leader is unable to be responsible for coordinating travel plans from San Francisco or other far off lands.

Bring/Wear:  Lots of water!!, sturdy hiking shoes, lunch, snacks, sunscreen and your MASK.

Rain Policy: Rain may alter or shorten the hike.

Driving Distance: 148 miles total there and back

Car Pool Fees : $18 per passenger