– by Hoyt Nelson
Two of my favorite Spring hikes are quite close together near the Stevens Creek Reservoir. Take Foothill W off 280 in Cupertino for about 3 miles. We will meet at the large parking lot just past the spillway at 10:00 AM.
HIKE 1
∙ Leads up by a pretty stream through emerging spring growth to a lookout over Mt. Eden Valley.
∙ Cross a saddle and climb to Maisie’s Point on the Fremont Older Ridge Trail with a commanding view over the Santa Clara Valley from Redwood City to Mt. Hamilton. Elevation change is around 900 ft. (one way) but is mostly shady. Round trip on this semi-loop trail is less than 5 mi. If we decide to quit after this, picnic tables and water are available near trailhead, but bathrooms may be locked (?).
HIKE 2
∙ The second hike starts at a trailhead back next to the reservoir and climbs up through dense woods and the old Picchetti Ranch orchard with views over the reservoir.
∙ The trail ends at the old Picchetti Ranch for wine tasting and a picnic among dozens of peacocks in the yard (picnic tables, water, rest rooms provided). Elevation change is around 400 ft. (one way). Round trip of this semi-loop trail is less than 4 mi. Bathrooms, water, wine tasting and picnic tables available at Ranch.
Signup – Bring sturdy footwear, layered clothing, hat, camera, food & drink for a picnic. Number of signups is limited to 20 people, so get on the list soon. Rain will cancel since trail is steep and muddy in spots. Call my cell phone at 408-835-5330 for latest info.
For more info or to signup, contact Hoyt Nelson at stevenscreekhike@niseiskiclub.org 
