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Friends of Santa Teresa Park 

Chris Horii at Trail Day with the FOSTP sign

 

The Friends of Santa Teresa Park is a volunteer organization based in San Jose whose purpose is to support Santa Teresa County Park. The president is Mike Boulland. Meetings are normally held the first Thursday of each month. Check for schedule changes below. The public is invited. Typical meeting topics include park news, history, trail conditions, community issues, volunteer opportunities, and future plans.

Our meetings are held at the Santa Teresa Golf Club upper clubhouse/banquet room (home of the QSpot BBQ Restaurant) at 260 Bernal Road, San Jose on the first Thursday of the month.  Our next meeting will be on April 5, 2018 at 7:00 pm.

Minutes from past meetings are available below. See the meeting minutes for park news and upcoming events.

 See you Thursday night,
 Mike Boulland

For more information on the Friends of Santa Teresa Park, contact Mike Boulland.
See and join our Yahoo Group for the latest news and updates. 

Like us on our Facebook page.
For questions on the stpfriends.org website, contact our webmaster, Ron Horii.

For County Parks volunteers, enter your volunteer hours here. This is the new Samaritan sytem. Contact the County Parks Volunteers Office for access information and instructions.



Mike Boulland greeting ranger on Stile Ranch Trail

Greetings from Mike Boulland:

The Friends of Santa Teresa Park welcome you and your family to our web page. We welcome you to participate in our service activities to make Santa Teresa Park a gem in the Santa Clara County Park system. Please use this web page to find out about our various activities. 

We invite you to explore and walk in the evening after work along the foothill trails to visit some of the most scenic sites in the entire Santa Clara Valley. Hopefully, you will visit our majestic waterfall trail and eat a snack at its base. Included, in our invitation is a walk to the upper meadows. We encourage you to sit in the shade of the Pueblo area and enjoy watching the various wildlife animals graze on the wild vegetation. Those of you who like views may take an enjoyable hike up Coyote Peak to get a vista view of the whole county. The trail’s scenic views can stretch the boundaries of your eye from San Mateo to Morgan Hill. 

We encourage you to use our web site to help you and your family gain information about our activities and events. We are a growing organization, whose members are dedicated to improving Santa Teresa County Park’s resources for the public to enjoy. 

Join us on our trail building day events, historical adventures, docent activities and other park service projects. We welcome all the volunteers we can muster. In the future we will need lots of volunteers to help us establish a docent program for the Joice-Bernal Museum site. 

Our organization is recognized with the County of Santa Clara Volunteer program and we can offer you and your family an opportunity to volunteer for fun service and be rewarded with a free County Parks parking pass. 

We meet monthly on the first Thursday night at 7:00 in the upper Santa Teresa Golf Course Clubhouse. 

Mike Boulland 
President of Friends of Santa Teresa Park

Vision Statement: Our Vision is to help protect, enhance, maintain and restore Santa Teresa Park and the surrounding neighborhood through education, volunteer involvement, coordination, and communications with the Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation Department Staff, the City of San Jose, and the greater community.


News 2017-2018
  • Santa Clara County Parks' "Wish you were here?" Ad Campaign in 2017 featured a billboard of Santa Teresa Park in downtown San Jose at 10th St. and Hedding St. The picture of the Coyote Peak Trail was taken by FOSTP secretary Ron Horii. 13 of his pictures were used for billboard and busback ads for the County Parks.
    Santa Teresa Park billboard at 10th St. and Hedding

  • The Friends of Santa Teresa Park held our first National Night Out event at the Bernal Ranch on Tuesday, August 1, 2017, from 5-7:30 pm. We served free ice cream and popsicles. Visitors could see a fire engine and a sheriff's patrol car. A park ranger, sheriff's deputies, and firemen were there to answer questions. Children’s crafts projects and games were provided. City Councilmember Sergio Jimenez came by, greeted people, and helped with a raffle. Sponsored by: The Friends of Santa Teresa Park, Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation, United Neighborhoods of Santa Clara County, and the City of San Jose’s Community Action and Pride Grant Program. Here is more information about the event. This is a flyer for the event. Here are pictures from our National Night Out.
    National Night Out, Santa Teresa Park, 8/5/17

  • Family Fandango was held this year on Saturday, August 5 from 5-8pm at the Bernal Ranch. It celebrated the history of early California and its ties to the Anza Expedition and the Bernal family. The evening’s focus was on family fun through song, dance, demonstrations and activities that highlighted the many contributions of our early communities. Here are pictures from that event.
    Family Fandango 8/8/17

  • We have applied for the City of San Jose's Cycle 1 Beautify San Jose Grant. It replaces, but is derived from, the city's old Community Action and Price (CAP) Grant. The grant funds neighborhood beautification projects, community events, and operating expenses for neighborhood organizations. We requested funding for our UNSCC membership (pays for meeting insurance), our website, our PO box, our newsletter and other publications, and expenses for next year's National Night Out and Fandango. We also submitted the final report for our Cycle 30 CAP Grant.
  • Ron Horii gave his annual outdoor photography class at the Bernal-Gulnac-Joice Ranch (Manila Drive at Camino Verde) on 10/30/17. Here is the flyer for the class. He also gave a lunchtime brownbag slideshow presentation on outdoor and nature photography at the Open Space Authority of Santa Clara Valley's headquarters at 33 Las Colinas Lane, San Jose, on September 22, 2017.
    Photo Class, 4/30/17

  • Ron Horii gave a Nature Photography Workshop at the Japanese Friendship Gardens in Kelley Park, 1300 Senter Road San Jose, CA 95112 on Saturday October 21, 2017 from 4pm to 6pm. See here for more information.
    Japanese Friendship Gardens
  • The Muriel Wright Center, which is above the Pueblo Day Use Center in Santa Teresa Park, is being converted into a mental health care facility. It was originally built in the 1960's and was used as a residential juvenile correctional facility. It was closed because of declining census, and juvenile offenders were transferred to the James Ranch in Morgan Hill. In 2014, the Santa Clara County Parks' Volunteer Office moved in, along with an office of the County Sheriffs assigned to patrol the County Parks. It was also used as a training facility by the Sheriffs Office. In early 2016, the Volunteers Office were told they would have to move out to make room for the mental health program. Originally, they were told they would have to move out by June 2016, but the date was pushed out. Now they are looking at early next year. This year, they temporarily moved into a much smaller office space adjacent to the Sheriff's station. The plan is to move them into a new facility at Vasona Lake County Park, near County Park headquarters. In the meantime, their former space has been cleared out (see picture below). The retrofitting project, expected to cost $5 million, has been funded. Neighbors in the community below Santa Teresa are concerned about the impact of this project on their neighborhood. The Friends of Santa Teresa Park are also concerned about the impact to the park and park users. On 9/14/17, Mike Boulland, Ron Horii, and neighborhood resident Issa Ajlouny met with Supervisor Mike Wasserman and his Chief of Staff John Gibbs, who is also a County Parks Commissioner. They discussed this issues, and John Gibbs created a Q and A information document. Here is the latest version of the Q&A document. We have been discussing this issue in our meetings. We may have a larger community meeting in the future or will participate in meetings organized by other groups.
    Muriel Wright Center retrofitting
  • On 8/13/17, a group of about 50 volunteers assembled at the Pueblo Day Use Area for a Martin Luther King Day of Service in Santa Teresa Park. Trail crew members gave instructions and led them down the Hidden Springs Trail to the Ohlone Trail. The volunteers worked on the Ohlone Trail, widening and smoothing it. Here's an album of pictures from that day.
    MLK Service Day on the Ohlone Trail, 1/13/18

  • Long-time volunteer Rick Leonard passed away in November last year. He volunteered at many events at Santa Teresa Park, especially the movie night. Here are pictures of Rick at Santa Teresa Park and some pictures from his memorial at his house.
    Rick Leonard at the Bernal Ranch Barn

  • Julie Lee, manager of the County Parks' Volunteer Program sent out a letter announcing the new County-wide Samaritan volunteer management system. She also sent out a "how to" guide with a FAQs section. Volunteers will be using the system to enter their hours and can search for volunteer opportunities. There will be training sessions announced. Here is the link to Samaritan. Contact the County Parks Volunteers Office for access information and instructions.
    Samaritan volunteer management system
    Samaritan website
  • We will be leading the following 3 hikes this spring:
    • Sunday 3/25/18: “Hike the Magnificent Seven! Santa Teresa” 10am to 1pm. Join the Friends of Santa Teresa Park for a moderate 2.5-mile #PixInParks hike on the Stile Ranch, Mine, and Fortini Trails. View spectacular wildflower displays, take in the gorgeous views, and hear talks about the rich history of the area. There will be nature and history exhibits and activities at the trailhead. Please bring snack, sunscreen, water and wear comfortable shoes. Meet at the Stile Ranch Trailhead on San Vicente Avenue, at the end of Fortini Road, off McKean Road. 
    • Saturday 3/31/18: Outdoor Photography and Wildflower Walk: 10 am - 1 pm. Join a docent for an outdoor photography class and slide show in the barn at the historic Bernal Ranch followed by a moderate, but easy-paced hike up the Joice Trail to take pictures of the colorful spring wildflower displays. Meet at the Barn with your camera or smartphone. Register here.
    • Saturday 4/21/18: Coyote Peak Vistas Hike: 2 pm - 4 pm. Join the Friends of Santa Teresa Park on a moderate 2-mile hike to Coyote Peak starting from the Pueblo Day Use Area. Look at the wildflowers and trees along the way. At the top, take in panoramic views of the Bay Area and Coyote Valley. Please bring snack, sunscreen, water and wear comfortable shoes. Register here. Here is a flyer for this hike.
Stile Ranch Trail Hike, 3/25/18
This is Mike Boulland on the Stile Ranch Trail during our PixInParks Hike on 3/25/18, talking about the history of the area. Here are pictures from that event.

Wildflower walk, Joice Trail, 3/31/18
This is the wildflower walk up the Joice Trail to Bernal Hill. It was after Ron Horii's photography class slideshow in the barn at the Bernal Ranch. Here are more pictures of the hike.

The County Parks has a new interactive webpage showing the best trails for viewing wildflowers in the parks. Two of the featured trails are in Santa Teresa Park: the Rocky Ridge Trail and the Stile Ranch Trail. Others are nearby in Almaden Quicksilver and Calero (Rancho San Vicente). You can also download a printed wildflower guide.
Wildflower tour website


   News Archive
  • The Santa Teresa Community Fest will be held on Saturday September 18, 2010 from 11 am to 5 pm, George Page Park, Santa Teresa Blvd. at Miyuki Drive. The Friends of Santa Teresa Park had a booth there.
  • The County Parks is hosting a series of community meetings on setting the criteria for their acquisition plans. See here for more information. See here for the flyer on the community workshops.
  • The dedication ceremony for the Albertson Parkway was held on Saturday August 29, 2009 from 10:00-10:30 am at Jaggers and Conejo.
  • The Santa Teresa County Park Site Historic Plan final plan documents are available on the website. The plan was presented to the Historic Heritage Commission on 2/19/09, which was the last forum for public input before the CEQA and environmental review process begins. A public meeting was held on August 11, 2009 to discuss the Draft Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration for the plan.
  • We had a farewell celebration at the Mounted Ranger Unit, Monday evening, June 29, 2009.
  • Our organization was featured in the June San Jose City Council District 2 newsletter. We had our picture taken at our May meeting.
  • Councilmember Ash Kalra's District 2 newsletter for March 2011 has a picture on page 3 taken by Ron Horii from the Ridge Trail in Santa Teresa Park, showing a rainbow over the Santa Teresa Golf Course.
  • We participated in the Santa Teresa Library Anniversary on Feb. 5, 2011. We had a table, where we displayed artifacts, models, and passed out literature. Mike Boulland read stories to the kids. Ron Horii showed a slideshow on Santa Teresa Park (56 MB), Sam Drake had a display and gave a slideshow and demo on geocaching.
  • We gave a presentation and crafts activity on Santa Teresa wildflowers at the Santa Teresa Library on 4/30/11.
  • We are working on a design for an interpretive plaque on Coyote Peak. Here is a picture of a mock-up design for the plaque.
  • We have applied for Cycle 25 of the City of San Jose's CAP Grant. Here is a copy of our application. We have been awarded a CAP Grant for 2011-2012 of $500, which is half of what we asked for. Our application was initially denied, but after writing a letter of appeal and making a presentation, we received funding for everything except for Fandango Entertainment.
  • Ron Horii made a slideshow on Santa Teresa Park, the Albertson Parkway, and views from La Colina Park.
  • We helped out at Festival in the Park at Hellyer County Park on Saturday June 25. It ran from 11 am to 4 pm. There were booths for County Parks volunteers and Friends groups. We provided our latest newsletter and other information. Our members helped out in various places at the Festival. Here is a web page on the festival.
  • We will be taking a guided tour of Gilroy Hot Springs on July 31. Everyone is invited. Contact Mike Boulland for more details.
  • We be participating in Family Fandango at Santa Teresa Park on August 13, 2011. We could use help manning the booths and activities. Check back for more details.
  • The new County Parks Park Here Brochure is available, which has maps, pictures, and descriptions of all the County Parks. The cover picture is of the Norred Trail in Santa Teresa Park, taken on 5/27/10 by Ron Horii. Ron also took the pictures of Alviso Marina, Chesbro Reservoir, Chitactac-Adams Park, Uvas Reservoir, Rancho San Antonio Park, Sanborn Park, and Stevens Creek Park.
  • Councilmember Ash Kalra's District 2 newsletter for June 2011 has a picture on page 3 taken by Ron Horii from the Norred Trail in Santa Teresa Park, showing the Albertson Parkway.
  • The new County Parks Fall 2011-Spring 2012 Play Here Brochure is available. The cover picture is of the Bernal-Gulnac-Joice Ranch barns taken by Ron Horii. Ron took many of the pictures inside the brochure.
  • The Santa Teresa Community Fest will not be held this year (2011). It should be returning in 2012.
  • Ron Horii has a display of Park Photography at the Santa Teresa Library in the Community Room in September 2011. It will be on display for about a month. The room is normally open only for events. The best time to see it is during the Friends of the Santa Teresa Library's book sale on Saturday September 17 from 10 am to 4 pm.
  • Ron Horii had his display of park photography to Moonbeams Coffee, across Santa Teresa Blvd. from the Santa Teresa Library, next to 24 Hour Fitness, for the month of October, 2011.
  • We, the Friends of Santa Teresa Park, celebrated our 20th anniversary at the Santa Teresa Library from 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday March 24. We had an  information table where we passed out park information. Paul Bernal loaned us pictures of the Bernal Family and Rancho Santa Teresa and costumes so kids could dress up as Spanish soldiers. There were be arts and crafts for kids. Boy Scout Troop 227 had displays of their projects at Santa Teresa Park. Ron Horii had park pictures on display and a slideshow. The Tenor Band provided musical entertainment.
  • Major construction of the East Barn at the Bernal-Gulnac-Joice Ranch has been completed. 4-H will use the barn for an animal project, most likely in 2014.
  • The Healthy Trails 3rd Edition guide has been published. It includes 2 trail routes in Santa Teresa Park.
  • Ron Horii will be teaching an introduction to outdoor photography workshop at the Bernal-Gulnac-Joice Ranch on Saturday October 4, 2014 at 10:00 am. He will show how to choose and use a camera, how to take better outdoor pictures, and photo composition. The workshop includes a slideshow, demonstration, and a walk around the historic area to take pictures. Meet at the Bernal Ranch barn. Register online or call 408-355-2201.
  • Coyote Peak Interpretive Sign Dedication Event: We designed a new interpretive sign for Coyote Peak. We had a dedication ceremony on October 25, 2014 at 10:00 am. (See the event flyer.) It was held in the covered group picnic site in the Pueblo Day Use Area of Santa Teresa Park. The event included music, refreshments, displays, information, talks, awards, and acknowledgments. Parking fees were waived. Unfortunately, due to the weather, we were not able to have our planned sign unveiling ceremony up on Coyote Peak, so we unveiled a copy of the sign in the Pueblo Area. (See the pictures from the event and of the sign.)
  • Widening Curie Drive at the Pyzak/Bonetti Ranch is in the County Parks 2016 budget. The work will be completed in 2017.
  • See our new FOSTP flyer for June 2015. See our newsletter for June-July 2015.
  • Ron Horii's pictures were used for the County Parks' "Nature is Nearby" Billboards. One of them was a picture of Santa Teresa Park. It was on Keyes St. west of 8th St., on the south side facing east, 5 blocks west of Senter. Story Road going west turns into Keyes. It showed the Coyote Peak Trail below Coyote Peak. The billboard campaign was intended to make urban residents aware of the natural areas nearby. They showed County Parks, most of which are less than a half hour's drive from the billboards.
    Santa Teresa Park billboard
  • We applied for and received a City of San Jose CAP Grant (Community Action and Pride). See the August 2015 meeting minutes for details of the application.
  • The Friends of Santa Teresa Park held a cleanup event at Santa Teresa Spring on September 26, 2015. The spring was nearly completely covered with vines and dirt. We cleared away the dirt and trimmed the vines.
    Spring cleanup, 9/26/15
  • Ron Horii taught a class in outdoor photography on November 14, 2015 at the Bernal Ranch in Santa Teresa Park at 10 am. See below for details. See here for pictures of the class.
  • On March 3, 2016, we had a special community meeting with representatives from the County Parks rangers, sheriffs deputies, San Jose Police, San Jose Council District 2 to discuss issues with the park. Here is a flyer for the meeting, the meeting agenda, the goals of the meeting, FOSTP board members and vision, the list of contacts, and the meeting minutes. 
  • We gave 2 wildflower hikes in Santa Teresa Park in April (here is a poster):
    • April 16 at 10:00 am on Bernal Hill, starting at the Bernal-Gulnac-Joice Ranch on Manila Drive. (See here for pictures of this hike).
    • April 30 on the Stile Ranch, Mine, and Fortini trails, starting at the Fortini/Stil Ranch Trailhead on San Vicente Avenue off Fortini Road at 9:00 am.
  • Ron Horii gave an outdoor photography class and hike at Coyote Lake/Harvey Bear Ranch County Park on May 7, 2016 at 10:00. Here's a poster for the class/hike.
  • Our members helped out at Festival in the Park at Hellyer County Park on Saturday June 4, 2016.
  • Ron Horii gave a nature photography class and hike at Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve on Saturday June 11, 2016 at 4:00 pm. He will be giving another class there at 4:00 pm on July 23. He will be giving another class at Ulistac Natural Area in Santa Clara on 8/20 on 4:00 pm. See the Open Space Authority's Activities Calendar. Ron has a class tentatively scheduled on Nov. 12 at 10 am at the Bernal Ranch in Santa Teresa Park.
  • Ron Horii was featured on an episode of the "Open Road" TV show on NBC Bay Area, hosted by Doug McConnell. Ron talked about Santa Teresa Park and other parks and about his outdoor photography classes. His pictures of the parks and classes were shown.
    Ron Horii being interviewed by Doug McConnell
  • Family Fandango is the biggest event at the Bernal Ranch. We helped out with the event and had a booth there: Saturday, August 13, 2016, Family Fandango • Santa Teresa’s Historic Bernal Ranch • 5pm-8pm. "Celebrate the history of early California and its ties to the Anza Expedition and the Bernal family. The evening’s focus is family fun through song, dance, demonstrations, and activities that highlight the many contributions of our early communities. Location is Camino Verde at Manila Drive. Food available for purchase. Questions? (408) 918-7770." Here are pictures from the event.
  • From Assemblymember Mark Stone:
    Did you know that Santa Clara County Parks is celebrating turning 60 this year? You are invited to join me and Santa Clara County Supervisor Mike Wasserman in spending the day enjoying and celebrating a local favorite, the Almaden Quicksilver County Park. Join us for breakfast and conversation, and then stay to attend fun-filled guided tours of Casa Grande and the town of New Almaden. Saturday, August 27, 2016, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Almaden Quicksilver County Park. Parking located at Casa Grande Museum: 21350 Almaden Rd, San Jose, CA 95120.
    10  – 11 a.m.  Breakfast with Assemblymember Stone and Supervisor Wasserman at Casa Grande
    11 a.m. – Noon Walking tour of the Town of New Almaden
    Noon – 1 p.m. Tour of Casa Grande
    This event is FREE, but RSVPs are encouraged due to limited space. Please let us know if you have any special needs.  For more information and to RSVP, please call my office at (831) 425-1503 or email angela.gile@asm.ca.gov.
  • The Volunteer Recognition Banquet for Santa Clara County Park volunteers was held on Saturday August 27, 2016 from 12:00 to 2:00 pm at Martial Cottle Park. "Volunteers who have recorded at least 5 hours of service in the last year will be invited to attend. Please submit any outstanding hours either online or to volunteer@prk.sccgov.org by June 30, 2016 to ensure we fully recognize you for your achievements! NOTE: If you would like to check how many hours you have recorded, in order to confirm your invitation, please  contact the Volunteer Program by email volunteer@prk.sccgov.org or by calling at 408-918-4930."
  • See our new Summer 2016 newsletter. It has articles about our park-community meeting, Family Fandango, Bernal Family member Dorothy Wuss, Bernal Zorros, our spring wildflower hikes, a memorial to former County Parks director Lisa Killough, Measures Q and A, Old Fashioned Wash Days, cleanup of Santa Teresa Spring, cream sac wildflowers, Ron Horii's appearance on the "Open Road" TV show, and senior park ranger Phil Hearin.
  • We submitted our application for a City of San Jose Community Action and Pride (CAP) Grant for Cycle 30, which runs from 9/1/16 to 8/31/17. We requested a grant of $1,150 to pay for our UNSCC membership, website, newsletter, PO Box, and event expenses, including Fandango and National Night Out in 2017. We will be looking at organizing a National Night Out event, which will be held on Aug. 1, 2017.
  • At our August 4, 2016 meeting, County Parks Natural Resources Program Supervisor Barry Hill and Deputy Director Don Rocha came to give us an update on cattle grazing in Santa Teresa Park. Here is Barry Hill's presentation on it.
  • The Friends of Santa Teresa Park went on a field trip to see Monterey State Historic Park, Fisherman's Wharf, and historic sites in Salinas:
  • On 8/30/16, Mike Boulland, Kitty Monahan, and Ron Horii met with County Parks Director Robb Courtney. To discuss the Santa Teresa County Park Historic Site Plan and its implementation. Here is the presentation we gave.
  • Ron Horii taught an outdoor photography class at the Bernal Ranch on Nov. 12, 2016 at 10 am. See the Events below.

Newsletters
 New Pictures!

Rainbow over Santa Teresa Golf Course from the Ridge Trail

Santa Teresa Park web pages & albums with pictures (newest first):
Web Pages/Photo Albums On Other Local Parks (Newest First)


Yahoo Group Pictures

Coyote Peak
Pictures for FOSTP Yahoo Group members only (anyone can apply to join, but you need a Yahoo ID, which is free):

Park Events


Pre-Mother's Day Hike, Fortini Trail

Park Events for 2017-2018
The following activities and events are in Santa Teresa Park and/or FOSTP members are involved:

2017-2018 Santa Teresa Park Events:
  • Saturday, January 14, 2017, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM. MLK Trail Day, Santa Teresa Park. Meet at Corral Parking Lot. Join Santa Clara County Parks staff and volunteers for a Trail Day to assist improving our trails and keeping them maintained through the winter. Come spend the day outside volunteering at Santa Teresa County Park. Please wear closed toed shoes, long pants, bring a jacket and a reusable water bottle. Tools, gloves and beautiful scenery provided! Event takes place rain or shine. Event open to Volunteers age 14 years and older. Volunteers 14 & 15 years old require adult supervision. Those16 & 17 years of age require a signed waiver by a parent or guardian. To register as a volunteer for the event please contact the Volunteer Program at volunteer@prk.sccgov.org or (408)918-4930.
  • Saturday, February 25, 2017, Lichen: A Closer Look, 9:00 AM - 1:30 PM. ​Enjoy a moderate 2.8-mile loop hike to discover numerous brightly colored lichen varieties that thrive in serpentine grasslands and learn ways these organisms benefit both wildlife and the environment. Meet at the Stile entrance off Fortini Road. Questions? (408) 918-7770.
  • Saturday, May 13, 2017, Herpetology Science and Movie Night, 7:30 PM - 10:30 PM, Santa Teresa County Park. ​Explore the science of amphibians and reptiles followed by a movie at the ranch at this fun family night for all ages and abilities. Meet at the Bernal Ranch barn. Reservations (408) 226-5453.
  • Saturday, June 10, 2017, Tai Chi, 8:30 AM - 9:30 AM, Bernal-Gulnac-Joice Ranch. Learn the oldest and most powerful type of Tai Chi – Lao Jia. Develop greater physical strength, balance and coordination. These slow gentle movements are perfect for all ages and physical abilities. Wear comfortable clothes. $15 per person. Reservations online or (408) 355-2201.
  • Saturday,  June 10, 2017, Carnivorous Plant Science and Movie Night 7:30 PM - 10:30 PM, Bernal-Gulnac-Joice Ranch.  Explore the science of carnivorous plants followed by a movie at the ranch at this fun family night for all ages and abilities. Meet at the Bernal Ranch barn. Reservations (408) 226-5453.
  • Saturday, July 8, 2017, August 26, 2017, A Taste of Archery, 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Santa Teresa Archery Range. Join the Black Mountain Bowmen to learn how to shoot a compound or recurve bow, fletch arrows and make a bow string. Ages 6 and up with parent. $5 participation fee. A mandatory safety class and equipment are provided by Predator's Archery. Meet at the archery range on Avenida Espana Drive. Choose from the 8-10am or 10-12pm class. Reservations online or (408) 355-2201.
  • Saturday, July 29, Tai Chi, Santa Teresa/Bernal Ranch, 8:30am-9:30am. Learn the oldest and most powerful type of Tai Chi - Lao Jia. Develop greater physical strength, balance and coordination. These slow gentle movements are perfect for all ages and physical abilities. Wear comfortable clothes. $15 per person. Reservations online or (408) 355-2201
  • Tuesday, August 1, National Night Out, Bernal Ranch, 5 to 7:30 pm.
  • Saturday, August 5, Family Fandango, Santa Teresa/Bernal Ranch, 5pm-8pm. Celebrate the history of early California and its ties to the Anza Expedition and the Bernal family. The evening’s focus is family fun through song, dance, demonstrations and activities that highlight the many contributions of our early communities. Location is Camino Verde at Manila Drive in San Jose. Questions? (408) 226-5453
  • Saturday, September 30, Introduction to Photography, Santa Teresa/Bernal Ranch • 11:00am-2:00pm. Join a Docent for a FREE outdoor photography workshop. Learn how to choose and use a camera, how to take better outdoor pictures and about photo composition. Workshop begins with an indoor slideshow, followed by demonstrations and a walk around the ranch. Reservations online or at (408) 355-2201.
  • Saturday, October 28, Microscopic Monsters Science and Movie Night, Santa Teresa Park's Bernal Ranch, 7:30pm - 10:30pm. ​Explore the science of microscopy. View the freakish world of unseen micro-monsters (amoebas, paramecia and other such tiny horrors) swimming and hunting within a drop of pond water. Stay to watch the sci-fi classic “The Blob” about an extraterrestrial amoeba. It’s a fun family Halloween happening for all ages and abilities. Reservations (408) 226-5453
  • Saturday, December 16, 2017, Santa Claus at the Bernal Ranch, 1:00pm - 3:00pm. Bring yourself, family, and anyone who enjoys meeting Santa, drinking hot chocolate, and snapping the perfect pic with old Saint Nic. Avoid the mall experience. Take time. Capture the best image you can of your loved ones with Santa. Please bring letters and a Christmas wish list.
  • Friday, January 5 and Friday February 2, 2018, Backyard Birding: The secret lives of the birds living among us, Bernal Ranch House, Santa Teresa Park, 8:30am-9:30am. Have you ever been curious about the little brown birds in your bushes? Do you have bird feeders but don't know the names of the birds that visit them? Are you an avid bird watcher that wants to learn more about the lives of your subjects? What can we do to help our feathered friends? If any of these questions interest you, then come enjoy a peaceful morning walk around the beautiful backyard of Casa Grande or the serene trail of Bernal Ranch with an experienced naturalist. Bring warm clothes, binoculars if you have them (8X42 magnification is best), patience, a sense of curiosity. Heavy rain cancels. Call (408) 918-7775 for more information.
  • Saturday, January 13, 2018, Martin Luther King Day of Service-Trails, Santa Teresa County Park Corral Parking Lot, 9:00am-1:00pm. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. lived his life serving others. Following his example, millions of Americans serve on Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service. On this special day volunteers will be working with park staff to accomplish a variety of park beautification projects. Tools, gloves, and necessary training will be provided. Please wear closed toes shoes, long pants, a jacket, and bring a reusable water bottle. Event occurs rain or shine! Families are welcome! A parent or guardian over the age of 18 is required to accompany volunteers under the age of 15 for the duration of the event. 
  • ​(Recurring Sundays) March 4th, March 11th, March 18th, March 25th, April 8th, April 15th,April 22nd,April 29th, May 6th, May 13th, May 20th, 2018, Weeding Party, Santa Teresa Park, 10am to 1pm. We're having weed removing and mulching parties!! You're invited to come! Don't miss out! Park's needs volunteers to help with weed removal and spreading mulch. The weeding will take place in islands and around posts and then spread the mulch. Tools will be provided. Click Reserve Online for More details.
  • Sunday 3/25/18: “Hike the Magnificent Seven! Santa Teresa” 10am to 1pm. Join the Friends of Santa Teresa Park for a moderate 2.5-mile #PixInParks hike on the Stile Ranch, Mine, and Fortini Trails. View spectacular wildflower displays, take in the gorgeous views, and hear talks about the rich history of the area. There will be nature and history exhibits and activities at the trailhead. Please bring snack, sunscreen, water and wear comfortable shoes. Meet at the Stile Ranch Trailhead on San Vicente Avenue, at the end of Fortini Road, off McKean Road.
  • Saturday 3/31/18: Outdoor Photography and Wildflower Walk, 10 am - 1 pm. Join a docent for an outdoor photography class and slide show in the barn at the historic Bernal Ranch followed by a moderate, but easy-paced hike up the Joice Trail to take pictures of the colorful spring wildflower displays. Meet at the Barn with your camera or smartphone. Register here.
  • Saturday 4/21/18: Coyote Peak Vistas Hike: 2 pm - 4 pm. Join the Friends of Santa Teresa Park on a moderate 2-mile hike to Coyote Peak starting from the Pueblo Day Use Area. Look at the wildflowers and trees along the way. At the top, take in panoramic views of the Bay Area and Coyote Valley. Please bring snack, sunscreen, water and wear comfortable shoes. Register here.

2017-2018 Events in Other Nearby Parks:
  • For events at Almaden Quicksilver, see www.newalmaden.org.
  • See here for Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority activities.
  • Saturday, March 18, 2017, Native Plant Discovery Walk, 9:00 AM - 1:30 PM, Calero County Park. ​Enjoy a moderate 3-mile hike to enjoy early spring wildflowers that thrive in the park’s serpentine grasslands. Along the way, observe a variety of endangered species found only in this unique environment. Meet at the Calero Park entrance (south of reservoir) off McKean Rd. Group will caravan to the Rancho San Vicente park entrance from there. Questions (408) 918-7770.
  • Sunday, April 9, 2017, Spring Wildflowers Nature Walk, 9:00 AM - 1:30 PM, Calero County Park. ​Take a moderate 3-mile hike to enjoy spring wildflowers that thrive in the park’s serpentine grasslands. Along the way, observe a variety of endangered species found only in this unique environment. Meet at the Calero Park entrance (south of reservoir) off McKean Rd. Group will caravan to the Rancho San Vicente park entrance from there. Questions (408) 918-7770.
  • Saturday, April 22, 2017, Coyote Creek Visitor Center grand opening, 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM. Everyone’s invited to the grand opening of the Coyote Creek visitor center at Anderson Lake County Park. There will be a short ribbon cutting and then on to activities for families, tours of the visitor center, along with a wildlife station, nature walks and much more!  All the fun begins at 10am and goes until 2pm.  The address is 19245 Malaguerra Avenue, Morgan Hill. See you there!
  • Sunday, April 23, 2017, Santa Clara County ParksRx Day, 8:00 AM - 07:00 PM. In support of National Park Prescriptions (Rx) Day, vehicle entry fees will be waived in - all Santa Clara County Parks on Sunday, April 23rd. National Park Prescriptions (ParkRx) Day is a day celebrated across the United States to promote the growing movement of prescribing parks and nature to improve human health, and to encourage everyone to start seeing visits to parks and public lands as a means to improve personal and community health.  Enjoy one of 28 county parks near you!
  • Saturday, May 6, 2017, A Taste of the Valley of Heart's Delight, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Martial Cottle Park. Come celebrate urban agriculture, food and spring planting time at this fun day on the ranch! Family friendly activities, healthy food and fresh produce for sale, arts and crafts, live music and much more. Volunteers needed, check parkhere.org for details. Questions? (408) 535-4060.
  • Saturday, May 13, May 20, June 10, June 17, July 1, August 12, August 26, 2017, Hula Hoop!, Martial Cottle, 10:30am-11:30am. Learn a new way to get some exercise, play and have FUN! Move with a hoop around your waist, feet and arms. All ages and experience levels welcome. Hoops provided for free or available for purchase. Meet at the visitor center. Questions? (408) 535-4060.
  • Saturday, May 20, 2017, When Nature Bites Back, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Hellyer. The wild world has numerous wonders to explore, but in the event of an accident are you prepared? Discover nature and recreation while being trained in hands-only CPR and basic first aid by Park Rangers. All practice equipment is provided. Meet at the visitor center. Reservations online or (408) 355-2201.
  • Sunday, May 21, 2017, Hike the Magnificent Seven! 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Calero. Complete the #PixInParks challenge with a guided hike on one of our magnificent trails! This month’s hike is the #BaldPeak Trail. Find your photographic destination and see some gorgeous views of Santa Clara Valley. Meet at the parking lot on Casa Loma Rd. No dogs. Questions? (408) 355-2240.
  • Saturday, June 3, July 1, August 5, 2017, Healthy Parks, Healthy People Walk, Martial Cottle, 10am-12pm. Join park staff for a walking tour to learn about the ranch’s history and organic farming. Spend time afterward playing at the Discovery Farm or visiting the Farm Stand. Meet at the Visitor Center. Questions? (408) 355-2240
  • Friday, June 9, 2017, Moon Gazing, 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Motorcycle County Park. Explore the seas, mountains and craters of our nearest astronomical neighbor with a Park Ranger and a telescope. Questions? (408) 226-5223.
  • Saturday, June 10, 2017, In the Park After Dark Movie Night, 8:00 PM - 10:30 PM, Martial Cottle Park. Watch a family-friendly FREE feature movie under the stars. Come early and join an Open Space Authority Interpreter to learn and play old past time activities. Meet on lawn near Parking Lot A with a flashlight and low lawn chair or blanket. No dogs please. Questions? (408) 535-4060.
  • Sunday, June 11, 2017, Youth Fishing Event, 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Ed Levin - Sandy Wool Lake. Join South Bay Fishing in the City partners for a free learn-to-fish event for children ages 5-15. Expert instruction and all equipment provided. On-site registration 8-10am for first 150 kids. Parental supervision required. Meet at Sandy Wool Lake. Questions? (408) 355-2240.
  • Saturday, June 17, 2017, Hellyer Amazing Race, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Hellyer. Anyone can participate in this fun family outdoor challenge! Register with your team to compete for great prizes by completing challenges and games as you learn some cool skills along the way! Registration required, space is limited. More info at parkhere.org or (408) 355-2255.
  • Saturday, June 17, 2017, Container Gardening, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Martial Cottle. Live in a condo or apartment? Learn from certified Master Gardeners how to grow veggies and ornamental plants in containers. You may be surprised that you can grow all the makings of a salad in just a few containers. Meet at the Master Gardener parcel to learn how! Questions? (408) 282-3105.
  • Wednesdays June 21, June 28, August 9, 2017, A Taste of Water Skiing,12:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Coyote Creek Parkway. Learn how to water ski with the Santa Clara County Water Ski Club. Cost is $10 per person. All equipment, lessons and other resources will be provided. It's a great time for ages 8-17! Bring your bathing suit, towel, sunscreen, water and snacks and be prepared to get WET! Reservations online or (408) 355-2201.
  • Saturday, July 8, In the Park After Dark Movie Night, Martial Cottle, 8pm-10:30pm. Watch a family-friendly FREE feature movie under the stars. Come early and join an Open Space Authority Interpreter to learn and play old past time activities. Meet on lawn near Parking Lot A with a flashlight and low lawn chair or blanket. No dogs please. Questions? (408) 535-4060
  • Sunday, July 9, Full Moon Owl Hike, Martial Cottle, 8pm-10pm. Come learn about the night time predators that soar the skies. The park is home to a variety of owl species and we will head out on a hike to find them. Meet at the visitor center with layered clothes. Questions? (408) 535-4060
  • Thursday, July 13, Friday July 14, Bats Over Calero, Calero, 6pm-9:30pm. Join Park Rangers for a batty presentation followed by a van ride into the heart of the park to the Bat Inn. View thousands of bats as they emerge from a good day’s sleep. $15 per person. Bring a light source, folding chair or mat to sit on, bug repellent, sturdy shoes and long pants. Flash photography not allowed. Reservations online or (408) 355-2201
  • Friday July 14, In the Park after Dark Movie Night, Hellyer, 8:30pm-11pm. Enjoy a night under the stars with family and friends. Come early to learn about your local County Parks and watch a FREE family-fiendly movie on a big screen. Meet at the Cottonwood lawn with a flashlight, lawn chair or and blanket.
  • Saturday, July 15, Building Raised Beds Workshop, Martial Cottle, 9:30am-12pm. Learn about the benefits of raised beds and options for building them at home. Stay awhile and build a raised bed under the supervision of Master Gardeners. Meet at the Master Gardener parcel with gloves, sun protection and refillable water container. Questions? (408) 282-3015 Questions? (408) 225-0225
  • Saturday, July 15, In the Park After Dark Movie Night, Coyote Creek Parkway/Parkway Lakes, 8pm-11pm. Enjoy a night under the stars with family and friends. Watch a short film about the County Park system followed by a FREE showing of LEGO BATMAN on a giant blow up screen. Enter the parkway at Metcalf Rd. Bring a flashlight and low lawn chair or blanket. Questions? (408) 226-5223
  • Saturday, August 5, Drip Irrigation Workshop, Martial Cottle, 9:30am-12pm. Learn about the benefits of drip irrigation and how to design and install a system at home. Practice by helping to install drip irrigation in a raised bed under the supervision of Master Gardeners. Meet at the Master Gardeners parcel with gloves, sun protection and refillable water container. Questions? (408) 282-3105
  • Saturday, August 19, When Nature Bites Back, Hellyer, 10am-12pm. The wild world has numerous wonders to explore, but in the event of an accident are you prepared? Discover nature and recreation while being trained in hands-only CPR and basic first aid by Park Rangers. All practice equipment is provided. Meet at the visitor center. Reservations online or (408) 355-2201
  • Saturday, August 19, In the Park after Dark Movie Night (Fantastic Beasts), Hellyer, 8:30pm-11:30pm. Enjoy a night under the stars with family and friends. Come early to learn about your local County Parks and watch a FREE family-friendly movie on a big screen. Meet on the Cottonwood lawn with flashlight, lawn chair or blanket. Questions? (408) 225-0225
  • Saturday, August 26, Compost Education Workshop, Martial Cottle, 10am-12pm. Join Master Composters for a workshop to learn about the magic of decomposition and how to compost at home. Meet at the Master Composter parcel with sun protection and water bottle. Questions? (408) 535-4060
  • Saturday, September 9, Chitactac Family Day, Chitactac-Adams Heritage County Park, 10:00am-2:00 pm. ​Discover the heritage of the people who once lived at this ancient village site along Uvas Creek. Learn to make traditional crafts and participate in unique activities and demonstrations. Questions? (408) 918-7770
  • Friday September 22, 2017 at 12:30-1:30 pm. Ron Horii will be giving a lunchtime brownbag slideshow presentation on outdoor and nature photography at the Open Space Authority of Santa Clara Valley's headquarters at 33 Las Colinas Lane, San Jose. You can register here.
  • Saturday, October 7, Harvest Festival • Martial Cottle • 10:00am-3:00pm. Come celebrate the legacy and significance of your valley’s rich agricultural heritage at this fun day on the farm! Family friendly activities, healthy food and fresh produce for sale, music and much more. Volunteers needed,check parkhere.org for details. Questions? (408) 535-4060
  • Sunday, October 8, Day on the Bay, Alviso Marina County Park, 10:00am-3:00pm. ​This fun-filled festival along the South Bay shores of Alviso features a health resource fair and festive celebration of our diverse cultures. Free activities include pumpkins for kids, music, entertainment, kayak rides, food, and a community bike ride. Questions? (408) 299-5030
  • Saturday, October 14, When Nature Bites Back • Hellyer • 10:00am-12:00pm. The wild world of parks has numerous wonders to explore, but in the event of an accident, are you prepared? Explore nature and recreation at the Visitor Center while being trained in hands-only CPR and basic first aid by Park Rangers. All practice equipment is provided; space is limited.Reservations online or at (408) 355-2201
  • Saturday October 21, 2017 from 4pm to 6pm. Ron Horii will be giving a Nature Photography Workshop at the Japanese Friendship Gardens, 1300 Senter Road San Jose, CA 95112. See here for more information and to register online.
  • Saturday, January 13, 2018, The Secret Life of Slime Molds, Rancho Canada del Oro Open Space Preserve, 10:00am-12:00pm. In the Winter, all of Rancho Caņada del Oro’s mysterious creatures and plants who need wet environments come to life. Come explore one of the most mysterious of all, slime molds. Join Authority Docent Cait and the Author Carrie Niblett for a morning in the meadow, discovering a remarkable beautiful organism you may have never noticed before. This is a slow-paced exploration and engaging educational experience for anyone who is inquisitive and curious. Heavy rain will cancel. 
  • Saturday, January 13, 2018, Starry Nights, Rancho Canada del Oro Open Space Preserve, 7:00pm-9:00pm. Join the Open Space Authority in partnership with the San Jose Astronomical Association (SJAA) for an evening out under that stars. No need to bring your own telescope, the SJAA will provide telescopes along with friendly astronomy docents who are eager to share the view. The gates will be closed at 8:00 pm to allow for better, undisturbed viewing, please arrive before then. Please dress warm, bring water to drink, and your sense of wonder for the night sky. Space is limited and registration is required.
  • Saturday, January 20, 2018, Anza Expedition Hike, Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve, 10:00am-12:00pm. Join the Open Space Authority and National Parks for a history walk along the Arrowhead Trail in Coyote, a certified interpretive site for the Juan Bautista de Anza Expedition. As you hike this 4-mile trail, you will learn all about the Anza Expedition and the experience of those families. Please bring your own water and a snack for the trail. Heavy rain will cancel. 
  • Saturday, January 27, 2018, Headwaters to the Bay – an Educational Family Hike, Sierra Vista Open Space Preserve, 9:30am-11:30am. Enjoy a gentle, fun, and engaging family-friendly hike along the easy 1.2-mile Aquila Loop Trail. We’ll talk about rain, aquatic homes for wildlife, and the larger wildlife that depend on clean water and our amazing watersheds to survive.
  • Saturday, February 3, 2018. Become an Open Space Docent!, 10:00am-4:00pm.Do you love sharing nature with people? Do you love being outdoors and walking in nature? If you have the time, we have the preserves! Come to our beginner docent training to learn about the Open Space Authority's volunteer opportunities. No experience is neccessary. Bring your enthusiam and curiosity and we will teach you the rest! Please bring a bag lunch with you and rsvp here. Volunteers must be 18 and older to volunteer on their own. Youth volunteers over 14 may join, but a parent or guardian over 18 must be present. 
  • The Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority has numerous hikes scheduled to Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve, which is not open to the public yet. Access is only through guided hikes, currently scheduled in March and April. See their Events page for details.
  • Friday, April 6, Power to the Petal, Calero County Park, 10:00am-1:00pm. Take a walk on the wildflower side! Discover many of the wildflowers found in local County Parks. Meet at the Rancho San Vicente parking lot (GPS ccordinates 37.1954  -121.8087​​) with sturdy shoes and sun protection. Reservations (408) 268-3883​.
  • Sunday, April 8, Cougar Country, Calero County Park, 10:00am-2:00pm. Come learn about the habits and life cycle of a mountain lion. Explore how humans and wildlife interact and share our park lands. Meet at the Rancho San Vicente parking lot on McKean Rd. Questions? (408) 535-4070. 
  • Sunday, April 8, Outdoor Photography, Anderson Lake Visitor Center, 1:00am-3:00pm. Learn how to capture beautiful outdoor moments with your camera. Meet at the Visitor Center at the end of Malaguerra Ave. with a digital (not phone) camera. Questions? (408) 918-7980​.
  • Sunday 4/29/18, Take a Hike on the Wild Side, Calero Park office off McKean Rd (south of reservoir), 9:00am-12:00pm. Hike in the habitat of two wild felines - mountain lions and bobcats. Discover these cats' unique characteristics while gaining awareness and appreciation for wildlife that call parks home. Meet in parking lot by the park office with water, good hiking shoes, and sun protection. Questions? (408) 918-7772​​.
  • Saturday, May 5, Martial Cottle Park Spring Celebration, 10 am -3 pm. See here for more details.