Hikers’ training camp
Adventurers gear up for Snow Valley Peak in July
GRAND VIEWS Coyote Peak highlights the entire Santa Clara Valley toward the Diablo Range on one side with views of Almaden Valley and the Santa Cruz Mountains on the other. Photo: Ron Erskine
More for the fun of it than to actually prepare for the summer challenge, we do six local hikes throughout the winter and spring. The third hike was to be at Uvas Canyon County Park, but the winter rains have decimated Croy Road and the park’s trail system. No time to waste. I have to find an interesting alternative.
A hiker’s internet review I read perfectly reflected my feelings about Santa Teresa County Park. It said the park was not a very sexy place to hike. However, the web reviewer’s comment was followed by a “but,” so I read on. I’m glad I did.
Around 40 Snow Valley Peak challengers gathered on a recent Saturday morning at the park’s Pueblo Day Use Area. It was one of those sunny days after the rains when Mother Nature was really showing off: cloudless crystalline sky, ideal temperature and hills so bright and green you might sprain your retina.
Our 3.7-mile loop would lead to the top of Coyote Peak, the highest point in the park, and the promise of distant views. One “catch” with great views: they usually come at a price. Sure enough, the Hidden Springs Trail pulled no punches. Trail chatter had to be squeezed between gasps for air as we rose up the steep trail. After a mile and a half and nearly 800 vertical feet—just about the time we were wondering why we were doing this—we received a powerful answer.
The view from Coyote Peak is not only grand, but unique. Where else can a hiker look across the full length of the Santa Clara Valley toward the Diablo Range, then turn around and look into the Almaden Valley and the Santa Cruz Mountains beyond? Santa Teresa County Park sits atop a small divide that separates the two valleys. From Coyote Peak, we had a rare view from a special perch.
Our gentle descent on the Rocky Ridge Trail began with a long traverse of the ridgetop with ever-changing ever-widening vistas. Looking south, all of Coyote Valley was the foreground to an infinite crystal clear view. While the wildflower show wasn’t in full swing, patches of Johnny-jump ups, checkerbloom, and California poppies hinted at what is to come.
With the trail’s peaceful descent over, I realized I had misjudged Santa Teresa County Park. Just moments from home, the Coyote Peak loop has all the bells and whistles that make for a special day out.
To join the Snow Valley Peak Challenge, email Ron Erskine at [email protected].
- After 10 years, Ron Erskine hangs up pen – January 9, 2020
- A Coe Park classic – August 15, 2019
- South Valley responds to annual summer hiking trek – July 31, 2019
