RANCHO SAN ANTONIO OPEN SPACE PRESERVE (SUNDAY)

RANCHO SAN ANTONIO OPEN SPACE PRESERVE (SUNDAY)

Hike Leader: Ron Gasparinetti

Hike Leader Email: ron@sfhiking.com

Hike Leader Phone: 650 759-5345

Hike Date and Day: Sunday, January 7, 2024 (CHANGED FROM SAT DUE TO RAIN)

SF Meeting Location: Whole Foods @ 2001 Market St.  Meet on the Dolores St side.  There's parking on the street.

SF Meeting Time: 9:00AM (departing shortly thereafter)

Driving Distance RT from SF 88 miles

Car Pool Fees: $11

East Bay Meeting Location: Rockridge BART station.  Meet at the bottom of the escalators.  There's free and ample parking.

Rockridge Meeting Time: 8:45AM (departing shortly thereafter)

Driving Distance RT from Rockridge: 122 miles

Car Pool Fees: $15

NOTE: You will be contacted if you've indicated you need a ride/can offer a ride by the Friday afternoon before the hike.  Please only show up at the SF or Rockridge meeting location if you have a ride arranged ahead of time. After 3:00pm Friday, It may not be possible to accommodate those needing a ride.

Hike Information:

Rating:  Level 2.5

Mileage: 7.65 miles

Elevation Gain: 849'

Description:  This hike will loop Wildcat Canyon and is one of the prettiest sections of the Rancho San Antonio Park.  It offers a diverse introduction to the terrain of the eastern side of the Santa Cruz Mountains.  Few visitors venture deeper into the wilds of this park as seen on this loop hike.  The route climbs to impressive and inviting winter vistas looking out over the South Bay from the Rogue Valley sections of the loop.  Following the West Branch of the Permanente Creek on the way out, we'll visit an Ohlone Village and the still operational Deer Hollow Farm.  The Ohlone Creek will meander along our path as we make our way back.  With only 850 feet of elevation gain over a generous 7.5 miles this hike will be quite relaxed and enjoyable.  Sorry but dogs are not permitted in the Preserve. :-(

Trailhead Meeting Place: Restrooms in the parking lot 

Google Maps Link

Trailhead Meeting Time:  10:00 AM

Trailhead Departure Time:  10:15 AM

Bring/Wear:  Sturdy hiking shoes, sunscreen, lunch, snacks, and sufficient water.

Rain Policy: Canceled in the event of heavy rain.