What you need to know
Location Activities
Preserve Information
Arguably one of the best places to see spring wildflowers, this breathtaking landscape should be on your list of places to visit in the South Bay.
POST purchased 966 acres here to save it from being developed into luxury homes. Soon after, the land was absorbed into Calero County Park and is now open for you to enjoy.
The hike described below leads to a spectacular vista overlooking the Calero Reservoir. It's a great spot rest with a picnic lunch and take time to soak in the view.
Watch for:
Fields of poppies, silver puffs, popcorn flowers, birds-eye gilia, rare Bay checkerspot butterflies and panoramic views.
Our Favorite Hike at Rancho San Vicente
Distance: 5.4 miles round trip
Elevation change: 500′ elevation gain
Hiking time: 3 – 4 hours
Trail surface: Packed dirt
Best season: All year
Parking lot address: Click here
Though we try to keep this page accurate, please see Santa Clara County Park’s website before visiting for the latest information.
Overview:
From the main parking area, follow the Lisa Kilough Trail for a little over two and a half miles. The gentle climb to Lisa’s Lookout is worth the effort for the views of the Calero Reservoir and surrounding mountains.
This dog-friendly route takes you through a large outcropping of serpentine soil, a prime spot for wildflowers in the spring (April is usually best). There isn’t a lot of shade along the trail, so sunscreen and a good hat are a must, especially on sunny days. From the lookout, follow your steps back to the main parking area.
Recent Photos
The Backstory
In 2009, POST purchased the 966-acre Rancho San Vicente from private developers who had intended to build luxury housing. This property is an important piece in completing a 15-mile greenbelt from Los Gatos to near Highway 101 in Morgan Hill. POST has since transferred the property to the Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation Department to establish public trails. It’s yours to explore, now and forever.