Friends of Santa Teresa Park News and Picture Archive, 2011-2012

The following are archived news events and pictures from our homepage, from 2011-2012:

Park Events for 2011

County Parks' Calendar of Outdoor Activities
2011 Calendar of Volunteer Events and Trainings
Sunday, March 27, 2011, Rancho San Vicente Hikes, Rancho San Vicente Property, 9:00 am - 12:30 pm. Join a Santa Clara County Parks Docent for a Moderate, 3 miles total, out-and-back hike to enjoy spring wildflowers at Rancho San Vicente. Learn why its rolling serpentine grasslands provide critical habitat for endangered species. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding foothills. Meet at the Calero County Park’s Reservoir boat launch on McKean Road prior to carpooling to Rancho San Vicente. Dress in layers, wear sunscreen, a hat and sturdy hiking shoes. Bring water, snacks and a camera. Limit 20 Participants. Registration is required. For more information call 408-355-2240 or view here for the flier.

Saturday, April 9, 2011, Wildflower Scavenger Hunt, Almaden Quicksilver County Park, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm. Join Docent Kitty Monahan and friends of New Almaden Quicksilver County Park Association, as they take you on a wildflower scavenger hunt through various stations at Jacque Ridge along Wood Road Trail at Almaden Quicksilver Park. Meet at the Wood Road Parking lot. Registration is required. Register online. For more information please call (408) 355-2240. View here for the flier.

Saturday, April 16, 2011, Healthy Trails Challenge Hike, Santa Teresa County Park, 9:00am - 11:00 am. Join a Docent on this moderately challenging 2.5 mile loop hike along the Fortini/Mine/and Stile Ranch Trails. Enjoy Valley Vista views of Santa Teresa Hills, Calero Lake and Almaden Valley. Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, snacks and camera. (408) 355-2240.

Saturday, April 16: EARTH DAY EVENT - Trail Day (Coyote/Bear: Gaviota Trail)

Sunday, April 17, 2011, Rancho San Vicente Hikes, Rancho San Vicente Property, 9:00 am - 12:30 pm. Join a Santa Clara County Parks Docent for a Moderate, 3 miles total, out-and-back hike to enjoy spring wildflowers at Rancho San Vicente. Learn why its rolling serpentine grasslands provide critical habitat for endangered species. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding foothills. Meet at the Calero County Park’s Reservoir boat launch on McKean Road prior to carpooling to Rancho San Vicente. Dress in layers, wear sunscreen, a hat and sturdy hiking shoes. Bring water, snacks and a camera. Limit 20 Participants. Registration is required. For more information call 408-355-2240. View here for the flier.

Friday, April 22, 2011, Healthy Trails Toddler Trek, Santa Teresa County Park, 3:30pm - 5:30 pm. A strollerhikes.com Docent will lead you on a moderate hike up the Fortini/Mine/Stile Ranch trails enjoying views and looking for footprints and other animal evidence. Meet at the Fortini trailhead. Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, snacks and camera. (408) 355-2240.

Saturday, April 23, 2011, Outdoor Photography Hike, Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch County Park, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm. Join Docent Ron Horii for a 3.7-mile photography hike of the spectacular Mummy Mountain Trail in Coyote Lake/Harvey Bear Ranch County Park. Learn outdoor photography techniques and take pictures of the wildflowers, sunny meadows, shady forests, unusual rock formations, and breathtaking views from the trail. Bring a camera, sturdy hiking shoes, snacks, water, and sun protection. Registration is required. For more information call 408-355-2240. See here for the flier.
Saturday, May 7, 2011, Pre-Mother’s Day Hike, Santa Teresa, 10am-Noon. Bring your mom and the whole family out on a 2.5-mile spring wildflower hike led by Docent Mike Boulland and the Friends of Santa Teresa County Park. Play games and explore the park’s geology and history along the way. Meet at the Fortini Rd. trailhead with sun protection, water and sturdy hiking shoes. (408) 355-2240

Sunday, May 15, 2011, Rancho San Vicente Hikes, Rancho San Vicente Property, 9:00 am -12:30 pm. Join a Santa Clara County Parks Docent for a Moderate, 3 miles total, out-and-back hike to enjoy spring wildflowers at Rancho San Vicente. Learn why its rolling serpentine grasslands provide critical habitat for endangered species. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding foothills. Meet at the Calero County Park’s Reservoir boat launch on McKean Road prior to carpooling to Rancho San Vicente. Dress in layers, wear sunscreen, a hat and sturdy hiking shoes. Bring water, snacks and a camera. Limit 20 Participants. Registration is required. Registration online. For more information call 408-355-2240. View here for the flier.
Santa Clara County Parks announces two Upcoming Open House Meetings: May 21, 2011 9:00 am – 11:30 am, Santa Teresa Golf Course Banquet Room, 260 Bernal Road, San Jose, CA 95119. May 25, 2011 5:00 pm – 8:30 pm, Almaden Library and Community Center, 63445 Camden Avenue, San Jose, CA 95120. County Parks will host community meetings in an “Open House” format to provide interested members of the public an opportunity to learn about the Calero Trails Master Plan, participate in the planning effort, and share their ideas.
Wednesday June 1, 2011, 7:00-9:00 pm, the Santa Teresa Foothills Neighborhood Association will hold a community meeting at the Southside Community Center.
Saturday, June 4, 2011, Killer Frogs and Tadpoles Night, Santa Teresa’s Historic Bernal Ranch, 7:30pm-10:30pm. Join aquarium experts and herpetologists to learn about local salamanders, toads and frogs, and how to set up successful pollywog aquariums. First families to make a reservation can take home a tadpole with a small tank. After the program, stay for popcorn, lemonade and the campy horror movie “Frogs.” Reservations required. (408) 226-5453.
Wednesday June 8, 2011 from 5:30pm to 7:00pm the County Parks Department will hold a public meeting to share the draft Grazing Plan for Santa Teresa County Park. The meeting will take place at the Santa Teresa Golf Club in San Jose at the Upper Clubhouse.
Saturday, June 11, 2011, Councilmember Ash Kalra, Kaiser Permanente San Jose, and the Pacific Coast Farmers' Market Association will be hosting the 3rd Annual District 2 Health Fair at the Kaiser Permanente parking lot on Santa Teresa Blvd. and Camino Verde Dr. from 10 am to 2 pm. This is a free and family-friendly events that promotes healthy eating and healthy living. For more information, please call Stacie Shih at (408) 535-4925.
Sunday, June 12, 2011, Silicon Valley Duck Race, 11 am to 3pm, Vasona County Park.
Thursday, June 16, 2011, 6-8 pm, Santa Teresa Library. Basim Jaber will give slideshow presentation on the Almaden Air Force Station on Mt. Umunhum.
Saturday June 18, 2011. Nature Hike with a Ranger, Calero/Rancho San Vicente, 9am-Noon. Join a Ranger on a 3-mile hike and learn how the rolling serpentine grasslands provide critical habitat for endangered species. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding foothills from the vistas in this future parkland. Meet at Calero Reservoir, then carpool to the trail nearby. Bring sun protection, water, camera, sturdy hiking shoes and layered clothing. Note: This is a guided hike in a “closed area” not yet open for public access, group travels together. Restrooms not available except at reservoir meeting location. (408) 268-3883.
Saturday, June 25, 2011. Festival in the Park – Where Wellness Meets FUN! Hellyer, 11am-4pm. This 5th annual event’s goal is to help families take charge of their health and takes steps toward a healthier environment. FREE admission, shuttle, information, health and recreation opportunities, entertainment and FUN! (408) 355-2240.
Saturday, July 9, 2011. Serpentine Habitat Hike, Calero/Rancho San Vicente, 8am-11:30am. Take a strenuous 3-mile hike to explore the plants and wildlife living in a serpentine ecosystem. Trails are steep and rocky but hike is paced to enjoy views. Meet at Calero Reservoir, then caravan to a gated site nearby. Bring sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection, snacks, and extra water. no children under 10 years old. No dogs. Note: This is a “closed area” not yet open for public access. Restrooms not available except at reservoir meeting location. No benches, porta-potties, or picnic tables along trails. Reservations required. (408) 846-5632.
Saturday, July 9, 2011. Wash Day and Old Time Games, Santa Teresa’s Historic Bernal Ranch, 1pm-3:30pm. Come out for a fun-filled afternoon. Experience granny’s “weekly affliction” and play games from 100 years ago. Located at the corner of Camino Verde and Manila Dr. in San Jose. (408) 226-5453.
Saturday, July 9, 2011. Carnivorous Plant Night Santa Teresa’s Historic Bernal Ranch, 7:30pm-10:30pm. Join experts for a show and tell about meat eating plants. Take home a Venus fly trap, sundew or pitcher plant to study! Afterwards munch on popcorn while watching the man-eating-plant movie “Day of the Triffids.” Reservations required. (408) 226-5453.
Saturday, August 6, 2011. Introduction to Geocaching, Almaden Quicksilver, 8:45am-Noon. Let Park Docent Sam Drake take you on a beginner’s geocaching adventure to find 6-7 hidden caches in the park. GPS units will be provided. Meet at the Wood Road parking lot with sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection, water, and snacks. Register online or call (408) 355-2240.
Saturday, August 13, 2011. Family Fandango, Santa Teresa’s Historic Bernal Ranch, 5pm-8pm. Come celebrate the contributions and accomplishments of the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe of the San Francisco Bay, early Spanish-speaking colonists, and English-speaking ranch families who all settled in this area over time. The evening’s focus is family fun through demonstrations and activities that highlight 1770-1870 California. The Ranch is located at 372 Manila Dr., San Jose. (408) 846-5632.
Saturday, August 20, 2011. Sunset Nature Hike, Calero/Rancho San Vicente, 6pm-8:30pm. Take a hike with a Park Ranger to explore the trails and enjoy an evening sunset hike. Trails are steep and rocky, but hike will be paced to examine nature and the views. Meet at Calero Reservoir, then caravan to a gated site nearby. Bring sturdy hiking shoes, snacks, and water. No dogs. Note: This is a guided hike in a “closed area” not yet open for public access, group travels together. Restrooms not available except at reservoir meeting location. (408) 268-3883.
Saturday, August 27, 2011. In the Park After Dark Movie Night, Santa Teresa, 8:30pm-11pm. Come on out for a fun-filled night with the family! Watch a movie under the stars on a gigantic blow-up outdoor screen. Bring a low lawn chair and a flashlight. Picnic dinners welcome, or purchase food from a park vendor. (408) 225-0225.
Saturday, September 10. History and Nature Hike with a Ranger, Calero County Park-Rancho San Vicente 9:00am-11:00am. Take a 2-mile hike with a Park Ranger to explore Rancho San Vicente’s nature, history and spectacular views. Meet at Calero Reservoir, then caravan to a gated site nearby. Bring sturdy hiking shoes, snacks, and water. No dogs. Note: This is a guided hike in a “closed area” not yet open for public access; group travels together. Restrooms not available except at reservoir meeting location. (408) 268-3883.
Saturday, September 17. After-Dark Fungus Festival, Santa Teresa County Park’s Historic Bernal Ranch 7:30 pm – 10:30 pm. Join park staff and Morgan Hill mushroom growers for a night of mushroom madness. Learn about mushrooms, molds and other fungus that thrive in the damper regions of our parks. Afterwards munch on mushrooms (if you’re not squeamish) while watching the creepy monster classic “Mantango: Attack of the Mushroom People.” Reservations required. (408) 226-5453.
Saturday, September 24. Healthy Trails Hike, Santa Teresa County Park 9:00am-11:00am. Join a Park Docent on a moderately challenging 2.5-mile hike on the Fortini, Mine, and Stile Ranch Trails (loop). See beautiful views of the Santa Teresa hills, Calero Reservoir and the Almaden Valley. Meet at the Stile Ranch entrance with sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection and water. (408) 355-2240.
Saturday, October 1. Introduction to Photography, Santa Teresa County Park’s Historic Bernal Ranch 10:00am-1:00pm. Join a Park Docent for a FREE outdoor photography workshop. Learn how to choose and use a camera, how to take better outdoor pictures, photo composition, plus more! Workshop begins with an indoor slideshow, followed by demonstrations and a walk around the historic area to take pictures. Meet at the Bernal Ranch barn on Manila Drive at Camino Verde in San Jose. Reservations required. Register online or call (408) 355-2240.
Saturday, October 8, 11 am to 2 pm, Pioneer Day, Almaden Quicksilver, Hacienda entrance, dedication of the Outdoor Museum.
Saturday, October 15. Fall Nature Hike, Calero County Park’s Rancho San Vicente 9:00am-12:00pm. Join a Park Docent on a 3-mile hike to enjoy the changing landscape of fall at Rancho San Vicente. Enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding foothills and discover how these rolling serpentine grasslands provide critical habitat for endangered species. Meet at Calero Reservoir, then carpool to a trail nearby. Bring water, snacks and camera. Wear sun protection and sturdy hiking shoes. No dogs. Note: This is a guided hike in a “closed area” not yet open for public access, group travels together. Restrooms not available except at reservoir meeting location. Reservations required. Register online or call (408) 355-2240.
Saturday, October 22. Spider Night, Santa Teresa County Park’s Historic Bernal Ranch 7:30 pm – 10:30 pm. Reserve your space for this annual crowd-pleaser and learn everything you need to know about arachnids, including our local California brown tarantula. View cages and cages of creepy crawlers and handle some if you dare. Hear spider poems and folklore followed by popcorn, lemonade and the classic big-bug movie “Tarantula.” Reservations required. (408) 226-5453.
Thursday, October 27. Stroller Hike and Toddler Trek, Santa Teresa County Park 4:30pm-6:00pm. A Strollerhikes.com docent will lead you and your little ones on a 2.5-mile hike past historical sites along the trail. Meet at the Fortini Trailhead with comfortable walking shoes and sturdy strollers or carriers. (408) 355-2240.
November 5, REI/Bay Area Ridge Trail work day, 11/5/11, 9:00 am.
Saturday, November 12, Astronomy Night, Santa Teresa’s Historic Bernal Ranch, 7:30pm-10:30pm. Join park staff and astronomers from San Jose and Fremont Astronomical Societies to explore the night sky through powerful, computer-guided telescopes. Munch on popcorn while watching the sci-fi classic movie "Forbidden Planet." Reservations required. (408) 226-5453.
Saturday, December 17, Santa at the Ranch, Santa Teresa’s Historic Bernal Ranch, 1:30pm-3:30pm. For the seventh year in a row Santa Claus will bring his “Ho, Ho, Ho” to the ranch to hear holiday wishes. Join him inside the 19th century parlor decorated for an old-fashioned Victorian Christmas. Parents can get that perfect photo of their kids sitting on Santa’s knee without waiting in mall lines. (408) 226-5453

Park Events for 2012

2012 Calendar of Volunteer Events and Trainings
Saturday, March 24, 2012, 10 am to 2 pm, Santa Teresa Branch Library, 290 International Circle, San Jose: Friends of Santa Teresa Park 20th Anniversary Birthday Bash. We will have historic displays, pictures, presentations, music, kids crafts, and literature.

Saturday March 24, 2012, Healthy Trails Hike, Santa Teresa, 9am-11am. A Park Docent will lead you on a moderate 2.5-mile hike along the Fortini Trail to see beautiful views of the Santa Teresa hills, Calero Lake and Almaden Valley. Meet at the Fortini Trailhead parking lot with sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection, water and snacks. (408) 355-2240.
Saturday March 24, 2012, Nature Journaling Hike, Santa Teresa, 1pm-4pm. Come enjoy the spring wildflowers while learning the basics of keeping a nature journal. Journaling is a great way to study and remember the things you see and experience during your outdoor adventures. This is a parent-child participation class geared for families with small children. Meet at the Fortini Trailhead. Bring snacks, sketch book or paper, clipboard and a few pencils. Reservations required. Register online or call (408) 355-2240.
Saturday, March 31, 2012 Wildflower Hike, Calero’s Rancho San Vicente, 9am-1:30pm. Join a Park Docent on a 3-mile hike to enjoy the spring wildflowers and learn how the rolling serpentine grasslands provide critical habitat for endangered species. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding foothills along the way. Meet at Calero Reservoir, then caravan to a gated site nearby. Bring sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection, snacks, and water. No dogs. Note: This is a guided hike in a “closed area” not yet open for public access; group travels together. Restrooms not available except at reservoir meeting location. Reservations required. Register online or call (408)355-2240.
Saturday, April 7, Healthy Trails Bilingual (Spanish) Challenge Hike, Santa Teresa, 10:00am-12:00pm. Join us on a moderately challenging 2.5-mile hike on the Fortini/Mine/Stile Ranch Trails (loop). See Beautiful Valley Vista views of Santa Teresa Hills, Calero Lake and Almaden Valley. Meet at the Stile Ranch entrance. (408) 355-2294.
Saturday, April 7, Introduction to Photography, Coyote Lake-Harvey Bear Ranch, 10:00am-1:00pm. Join Docent Ron Horii for a 3.7-mile photography hike on the spectacular Mummy Mountain Trail. Learn outdoor photography techniques and take pictures of the wildflowers, sunny meadows, shady forests, unusual rock formations, and breathtaking views. Bring a camera, sturdy hiking shoes, snacks, water and sun protection. Meet at the Mendoza parking lot on Roop Rd. Register online http://activenet.active.com/SCCOParks/registrationmain.sdi?source=adet.sdi&activity_id=177 or call (408) 355-2240.
Thursday, April 12, Healthy Trails Stroller Hike and Toddler Trek, Santa Teresa, 4:30pm-6:00pm. Join a Strollerhikes.com Docent on a moderate hike geared towards families with small children. Enjoy many historical sites along the way. Meet at the Fortini Trail Head parking lot. Bring sun protection, water, snacks and sturdy hiking shoes. (408) 355-2240.
Saturday, April 14, Power To The Petal, Calero/Rancho San Vicente, 11:00am-1:00pm. Hike with a Park Ranger to explore a bounty of wildflowers and discover why this unique environment provides critical habitat for endangered species. Meet at Calero Reservoir, then carpool to the trail nearby. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and sun protection. Bring lunch and water. Note: This is a guided hike in a “closed area”, not normally open to the public. Restrooms not available except at reservoir. (408) 268-3883.
Saturday, April 21: Earth Day Trail Work – Coyote Lake (opening of the Ed Wilson Trail) [more info...]
Sunday, April 22, Wildflowers Galore!, Santa Teresa, 10:00am-12:00pm. Take a 3-mile hike to explore endangered species of the serpentine habitat and learn why certain soils and rocky mixtures produce the most beautiful and abundant wildflower displays. Meet at the Pueblo group area with hiking shoes, sun protection and water. (408) 225-0225.
Sunday, May 6, Wildflower Hike, Calero/Rancho San Vicente, 9:00am-1:30pm. Join a Park Docent on a 3-mile hike to enjoy spring wildflowers and learn how the rolling serpentine grasslands provide critical habitat for endangered species. Meet at Calero Reservoir, then carpool to the trail nearby. Bring sun protection, water, camera, sturdy hiking shoes and layered clothing. Note: This is a guided hike in a “closed area” not yet open for public access, group travels together. Restrooms not available except at reservoir. Register online http://activenet.active.com/SCCOParks/registrationmain.sdi?source=adet.sdi&activity_id=181 or call (408) 355-2240.

Saturday, May 12: Park Beautification – Joice Bernal Ranch

Saturday, May 19: National River Cleanup Day – various parks

Saturday, May 19, 2012. South Bay Ridge Ramble. Bay Area Ridge Trail all-day event. Family Ramble: 3.5 mile loop through Santa Teresa Park. Family Geocaching Ramble with REI in Santa Teresa Park. Mining Ramble: 9 miles from Hicks Road/Jacques Ridge in Almaden Quicksilver Park with optional 3-mile loop. Extreme Scramble: 21-miles from Lexington Reservoir through Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve through Almaden Quicksilver to Santa Teresa, with optional 3-mile loop to Coyote Peak at the end. Stage at Santa Teresa Park. Hikers and cyclists on the Mining Ramble and Extreme Scramble are shuttled to the starting point and travel back to Santa Teresa. All participants enjoy snacks and drinks at rest stops along the way, and a tasty lunch. Maps, guides, and sweeps are provided so you can travel the trail at your own pace. To volunteer to help with the event, contact volunteer@ridgetrail.org

Saturday, May 19, Frog and Lizard Night, Santa Teresa’s Historic Bernal Ranch, 7:30pm-10:00pm. Join aquarium experts and herpetologists to learn about local salamanders, frogs, lizards, and how to set up successful pollywog aquariums. First families to make reservations can take home a tadpole with small tank. After the program, stay for popcorn, lemonade and the campy horror movie “Creature from the Black Lagoon.” Reservations required. (408) 226-5453.

Saturday, May 26, Wash Day And Old Time Games – Santa Teresa’s Historic Bernal Ranch, 1:30pm-3:30pm. Come out for a fun-filled afternoon. Experience Granny’s “weekly affliction” and play games from 100 years ago. The historic ranch is located at the corner of Camino Verde and Manila Dr. in San Jose. (408) 226-5453.

Saturday, June 2: National Trails Day – New Almaden Trail at Almaden Quicksilver.

Sunday, June 3, Wildflower Hike, Calero/Rancho San Vicente, 9:00am-1:30pm. Join a Park Docent on a 3-mile hike to enjoy spring wildflowers and learn how the rolling serpentine grasslands provide critical habitat for endangered species. Meet at Calero Reservoir, then carpool to the trail nearby. Bring sun protection, water, camera, sturdy hiking shoes and layered clothing. Note: This is a guided hike in a “closed area” not yet open for public access, group travels together. Restrooms not available except at reservoir. Register online http://activenet.active.com/SCCOParks/registrationmain.sdi?source=adet.sdi&activity_id=182 or call (408) 355-2240.

Sunday, June 3, Introduction to Geocaching, Santa Teresa, 1:00pm-4:00pm. Join Docent Sam Drake on a beginner’s geocaching adventure to find 6-7 hidden caches on the Fortini Trail. GPS units will be provided. Meet at the Fortini Trailhead. Bring sun protection, water, snacks and sturdy hiking shoes. Reservations required. Register online http://activenet.active.com/SCCOParks/registrationmain.sdi?source=adet.sdi&activity_id=187 or call (408) 355-2240.

Saturday, June 23, Festival in the Park, Hellyer, 11:00am-4:00pm. Join us for this 6th annual health, wellness and safety fair! This year’s exhibits and activities will include those aimed at helping communities and families become better prepared for emergencies and natural disasters. Food available for purchase. FREE admission, information, health and recreation opportunities, entertainment and FUN! (408) 355-2240.

Saturday, June 30: Trail Day – Rocky Ridge Trail at Santa Teresa.

Saturday, July 14, Wildlife Hike, Calero/Rancho San Vicente, 4:00pm -7:30pm. Join a Park Docent for a moderate 3- mile out-and-back hike to enjoy wildlife and discover how the rolling serpentine grasslands provide critical habitat for endangered species. Meet at Calero Reservoir, then carpool to the trail nearby. Bring sun protection, water, camera, sturdy hiking shoes and layered clothing. Note: This is a guided hike in a “closed area” not yet open for public access, group travels together. Restrooms not available except at reservoir. Register online at http://activenet.active.com/SCCOParks/registrationmain.sdi?source=adet.sdi&activity_id=183 or call (408) 355-2240.

Saturday, July 21, August 11, Wash Day And Old Time Games, Santa Teresa’s Historic Bernal Ranch, 1:30pm-3:30pm. Come out for a fun-filled afternoon. Experience Granny’s “weekly affliction” and play games from 100 years ago. The historic ranch is located at the corner of Camino Verde and Manila Dr. in San Jose. (408) 226-5453.

Saturday, July 28, Family Fandango, Santa Teresa’s Historic Bernal Ranch, 5:00pm-8:00pm. Come celebrate the contributions and accomplishments of the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe of the San Francisco Bay, early Spanish-speaking colonists, and English-speaking ranch families who all settled in this area over time. The evening’s focus is family fun through demonstrations and activities that highlight 1770-1870 California. The Ranch is located at the corner of Camino Verde and Manila Dr. in San Jose. (408) 846-5632.

Saturday, August 11, Micro-Zoology Night, Santa Teresa’s Historic Bernal Ranch, 7:30pm-10:00pm
Join experts for a show and tell about microscopic creatures. Look at life under a drop of water. Afterwards, munch on popcorn while watching the microbe gone mad movie “The Blob.” Reservations required. (408) 226-5453.

Saturday, August 25, Wildlife Hike, Calero/Rancho San Vicente, 4:00pm-7:30pm
Join a Park Docent on a 3-mile hike to enjoy panoramic views and discover how these rolling serpentine grasslands provide critical habitat for endangered species. Meet at Calero Reservoir, then carpool to the trail nearby. Bring sun protection, water, camera, sturdy hiking shoes and layered clothing. Note: This is a guided hike in a “closed area” not yet open for public access, group travels together. Restrooms not available except at reservoir. Register online http://activenet.active.com/SCCOParks/registrationmain.sdi?source=adet.sdi&activity_id=186 or call (408) 355-2240.

Saturday, September 8, New Almaden Community Day, Jump-In Parade, starts at the New Almaden Community Club on Bertram Road at 11 am.The parade goes down Bertram Road and returns on Almaden Road. There will be a carnival with food, games, raffles, bake sale, cake walks, T-shirt sales, and live entertainment afterwards at the community Club.
Thursday, September 13, Stroller Hike and Toddler Trek, Santa Teresa, 4:30pm-6:00pm. A Strollerhikes.com docent will lead you and your little ones on a 2.5-mile moderately strenuous hike past historical sites along the trail. Meet at the Fortini Trailhead with comfortable walking shoes and sturdy strollers or carriers. (408) 355-2240.
Saturday, September 22, Fall Nature Hike, Calero/Rancho San Vicente, 9:00am-1:30pm. Join a Park Docent on a 5-mile moderately strenuous hike to enjoy panoramic views and discover how these rolling serpentine grasslands provide critical habitat for endangered species. Meet at Calero Reservoir, then carpool to a trail nearby. Bring sun protection, water, camera, sturdy hiking shoes and layered clothing. Note: This is a guided hike in a “closed area” not yet open for public access, group travels together, some steep sections. Restrooms not available except at reservoir. Register online or call (408) 355-2240.
Saturday, October 6, Introduction to Photography, Santa Teresa’s Historic Bernal Ranch, 10:00am-1:00pm. Join Docent Ron Horii for a FREE outdoor photography workshop. Learn how to choose and use a camera, how to take better outdoor pictures, photo composition, plus more! Workshop begins with an indoor slideshow, followed by demonstrations and a walk around the historic area to take pictures. Meet at the Bernal Ranch barn on Manila Drive at Camino Verde in San Jose. Reservations required. Register online or call (408) 355-2240.
Saturday, October 13, Pioneer Day, Almaden Quicksilver, 11 am. Festivities and food will be at the Hacienda Outdoor Mining Museum site near the Hacienda Entrance to Almaden Quicksilver below the start of the Deep Gulch Trail. Lunch will be served at 12 pm for a $10 donation. A new sign for the incline railroad on the Mine Hill Trail will be dedicated at 1 pm.
Saturday, October 13, Creature Feature Movie Night (Spiders), Santa Teresa’s Historic Bernal Ranch, 7:30pm-10:00pm. Reserve your space for this annual crowd-pleaser and learn everything you need to know about arachnids, including our local California brown tarantula. View cages and cages of creepy crawlers and handle some if you dare. Hear spider poems and folklore followed by popcorn, lemonade and the classic big-bug movie “Tarantula.” Reservations required. (408) 226-5453.
Sunday, October 14, Fall Nature Hike, Calero/Rancho San Vicente, 9:00am-1:30pm. Join a Park Docent on a 5-mile moderately strenuous hike to enjoy panoramic views and discover how these rolling serpentine grasslands provide critical habitat for endangered species. Meet at Calero Reservoir, then carpool to a trail nearby. Bring sun protection, water, camera, sturdy hiking shoes and layered clothing. Note: This is a guided hike in a “closed area” not yet open for public access, group travels together, some steep sections. Restrooms not available except at reservoir. Register online or call (408) 355-2240.
Sunday, October 14, Day on the Bay: A Multicultural Festival, Alviso Marina, 10:00am-3:00pm. Celebrate our multicultural community with many non-profit, government, and community-based organizations. Free food, arts and crafts, and live entertainment on two stages. Free activities from face painting to kayaking in the Alviso Slough. (408) 299-5030.
Saturday, October 20, Introduction to Geocaching, Almaden Quicksilver, 8:45am-12:00pm. Join a Docent on a beginner’s geocaching adventure to find 6-7 hidden caches in the park. GPS units provided. Meet at the Wood Rd. parking lot. Bring sun protection, water, snacks and sturdy hiking shoes. Reservations required. Register online or call (408) 355-2240.
Saturday October 20, Amah Mutsun Heritage Day, Chitactac-Adams, 11:00am-3:00pm. The Amah Mutsun invite members of the public and their families to meet descendants of the people who occupied these lands for thousands of years. Participate in activities for families with children, hear creation stories, and learn about the rich history of this native culture. (408) 918-7772.
Sunday, October 28, Living History Day, Casa Grande/New Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum, 11:00am-3:00pm. Come visit Casa Grande, once the magnificent home of New Almaden Mine Managers. Costumed Docents & Staff will be on hand to guide you through Victorian period rooms and museum exhibits. Children will be able to participate in a Dia De Los Muertos craft activity to take home. (408) 918-7774.
Thursday, November 1, Stroller Hike & Toddler Trek, Santa Teresa, 4:30pm-6:00pm. A Strollerhikes.com Docent will lead you and your little ones on a 2.5-mile hike past historical sites along the trail. Meet at the Fortini Trailhead with comfortable walking shoes and sturdy strollers or carriers. (408) 355-2240.
Saturday, December 1, Yuletide Bazaar, New Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum, 10:00am-4:00pm. Come visit Casa Grande in New Almaden to check out the local crafts & holiday goodies on display. You will be sure to walk away with some great gifts for family and friends! Casa Grande will also be decorated and costumed docents & staff will further enhance the holiday spirits. (408) 323-1107.
Sunday, December 2, Healthy Trails Hike, Santa Teresa, 10:00am-1:00pm. Join park staff on this tough but fun 3.0-mile hike on multiple ridge trails in the park. Explore serpentine habitats and enjoy sweeping views of Almaden Valley and the Bay Area form Coyote Peak (1155ft). Meet at the Hidden Springs trailhead with sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection, snacks and water. $6 vehicle entry fee. (408) 355-2240.

Friends of Santa Teresa Park News and Picture Archive 2011-2012