Rare wheelchair/stroller access offered
The American Hiking Society celebrated National Trails Day June
2. National Trails Day is in its 15th year and is America’s largest
celebration of trails and the outdoors. This annual day continues
to attract people to trails all around the nation. It encourages
people to learn about trails as well as participate in trail
dedications, instructional workshops, and trail work projects.
Rare wheelchair/stroller access offered
The American Hiking Society celebrated National Trails Day June 2. National Trails Day is in its 15th year and is America’s largest celebration of trails and the outdoors. This annual day continues to attract people to trails all around the nation. It encourages people to learn about trails as well as participate in trail dedications, instructional workshops, and trail work projects.
Santa Clara County’s Open Space Authority dedicated two new trails, the Llagas Creek Loop Trail and the Mayfair Ranch Trail, at Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve to mark National Trails Day.
The preserve is tucked into the western foothills of Santa Clara County. It contains oak woodlands, grasslands, and many scenic views. More than 8 miles of trails allows people to get away from the many noises of San Jose and into the western foothills to enjoy panoramic vistas.
The habitats in the OSA lands are home to many plants and animals and some of them are considered endangered species.
The new Llagas Creek Trail is a short nature trail. It is home to many native plants, trees, birds, and other wildlife and is a beautiful place for hikers who just want to enjoy the outdoors. This trail is paved for a half-mile, which allows access to wheelchairs and strollers for people who want a short, relaxing walk.
The Mayfair Ranch Trail is a 3-mile long trail that acts as a connector to other trails on the preserve. The trail winds through woodlands and meadows before it drops into Baldy Ryan Canyon. Views of Llagas Creek and the valleys beyond it can be seen as the trail reaches its higher points.
The preserve is open to the public and is free of charge. Summer-time hours are 6 a.m. until sunset. No drinking water is available on the preserve but a trough is there to ensure water for horses for those that choose to horseback on the designated trails.
The Open Space Authority of Santa Clara County was created by the State Legislature in response to efforts by citizens. The OSA includes the cities of Campbell, Milpitas, Morgan Hill, Santa Clara and San Jose, as well as much of the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County and is governed by an elected seven-member board of directors.
For directions to the park or for more information go to www.openspaceauthority.org or contact Lark Burkhart at 408-224-7476.
