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Chris Horii at Trail Day with the FOSTP sign

Friends of Santa Teresa Park

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 at 7:00 pm in the upper clubhouse at the Santa Teresa Golf Course. 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. 

We will not have a general meeting in January. We will be having a potluck dinner at Mike Boulland's house. Contact Mike for details.

You are invited to our next general meeting, on Thursday February 2, 2012 at 7:00 pm.  It will be held at the Santa Teresa Golf Club upper clubhouse/banquet room at 260 Bernal Road, San Jose. Everyone is invited. Contact your neighbors and friends for new members. We are always looking for help in making Santa Teresa Park a better and safer place for our community. 

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.



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 


News
  • 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 has moved this 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.

   Old News

Newsletters
 New Pictures!

Rainbow over Santa Teresa Golf Course from the Ridge Trail


New Santa Teresa Park web pages with pictures:
Web Pages On Other Parks


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 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.
  • 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.
Park Events for 2010
  • Play Here Brochure for May-August 2010
  • Play Here Brochure for Fall-Winter 2010
  • County Parks' Volunteer Opportunities.
  • Winter/Spring 2009 Volunteers Newsletter
  • Fall/Winter 2009-2010 Volunteers Newsletter
  • Saturday April 17, Outdoor Photography & Wildflower Hike, Rancho San Vicente, 9:30am-12:00pm. Join Docents Ron Horii and Cait Hutnik to learn the basics of outdoor photography while weaving through a colorful display of wildflowers. Meet at the Calero Reservoir parking lot to caravan. Bring sun protection, water and sturdy hiking shoes. This hike is in a “closed area” not yet open for public access. No restroom available except at meeting location. Pre-registration required, limit 20 people. (408) 355-2240
  • Saturday April 17, Healthy Trails Challenge Hike, Santa Teresa County Park, 11:00am-3:00pm. Join Docent Bob Cicisly on a strenuous but gratifying 3.5-mile hike along the Hidden Springs, Coyote Peak, Rocky Ridge and Mine Loop Trails. See beautiful views of the nearby hills and valleys. Meet at the Pueblo day use area. Bring sun protection, water, snacks, sturdy hiking shoes and a camera. (408) 355-2240
  • Saturday April 24, Power to the Petal Wildflower Hike, Santa Teresa County Park, 11:00am-1:00pm. Hike with a Park Ranger to explore the bounty of wildflowers dotting the Santa Teresa foothills. Discover why the unique environment here contributes to a colorful display and provides critical habitat for several endangered species. Bring water, sun protection and sturdy hiking shoes. Meet at the Pueblo Group area. (408) 225-225
  • Wednesday, April 28, Santa Teresa County Park, Rare Plant Treasure Hunt (Western side), 10 am to 2 pm. Santa Clara County Parks and the Santa Clara Valley Chapter of the Native Plant Society (CNPS) invite you on a treasure hunt for our rare plants at Santa Teresa County Park. Volunteers will spread out across the park in search of our rare or endangered plants. Teams will be provided with a GPS unit (or bring your own GPS unit or GPS-enabled mobile phone) and there will be enough experts around to insure accurate identification of the plants. You don't need to have plant keying skills. All that is required is a desire to help and the fitness to walk one to three miles in somewhat hilly terrain. Different dates will focus on different areas of the parks. Data collected will be submitted to the California Natural Diversity Data Base, a joint project of CNPS and the California Department of Fish & Game. To pre-register call Karen at 408-629-7229.
  • Sunday, May 2, Healthy Trails Pre-Mother's Day Hike, Santa Teresa County Park, 10:00-3:00pm. 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 2, Santa Teresa County Park, Santa Teresa Rare Plant Treasure Hunt (North and Eastern sides), 10 am to 2 pm. Santa Clara County Parks and the Santa Clara Valley Chapter of the Native Plant Society invite you on a treasure hunt for our rare plants at Santa Teresa County Park. Volunteers will spread out across the park in search of our rare or endangered plants. Teams will be provided with a GPS unit (or bring your own GPS unit or GPS-enabled mobile phone) and there will be enough experts around to insure accurate identification of the plants. You don't need to have plant keying skills. All that is required is a desire to help and the fitness to walk one to three miles in somewhat hilly terrain. Different dates will focus on different areas of the parks. Data collected will be submitted to the California Natural Diversity Data Base, a joint project of CNPS and the California Department of Fish & Game. To pre-register call Karen at 408-629-7229.
  • Sunday, May 2, Wash Day and Old Time Games, Santa Teresa County Park's Historic Bernal Ranch, 1:00-3:30pm. Come out for a fun-filled afternoon at the ranch. Experience what granny called her "weekly affliction" and play games from 100 years ago. The ranch is located at the corner of Camino Verde and Manila Dr. in San Jose. (408) 226-5453.
  • Saturday, May 8, Healthy Trails 2nd Edition Celebration and Hike, Coyote Lake-Harvey Bear Ranch County Park, 11:00 am - 2:00 pm. Come celebrate and sign up for Healthy Trails 2nd Edition! There will be exhibitors, giveaways and lots of fun. Join partners, dignitaries and park staff on an easy 2-mile walk on the Martin Murphy Trail. Meet at the San Martin Ave. entrance. (408) 355-2240.
  • Saturday, May 15, Intro to Geocaching Class, Coyote Lake-Harvey Bear Ranch County Park, 8:45am-12:00pm. Join Docent Sam Drake on a beginner’s geocaching adventure to find 6-7 hidden caches in the park. GPS units provided. Meet at the Mendoza park entrance on Roop Rd. Bring sun protection, water, snacks and sturdy hiking shoes. Reservations required. (408) 355-2240.
  • Saturday, June 5, Raptors Over the Rancho, Rancho San Vicente, 4:00pm – 6:00pm. Take a hike with a Park Ranger in this future County Park. Learn to identify our local sky-hunting hawks, eagles and other raptors. Participate in an activity that demonstrates hunting practices of these magnificent birds. Meet at Calero Reservoir, then caravan to the site nearby. Bring sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection and water. Note: This hike is in a “closed area” not yet open for public access. Restrooms not available except at meeting location. (408) 268-3883.
  • Saturday, June 12, Wash Day and Old Time Games, Santa Teresa County Park’s Historic Bernal Ranch, 1:00pm-3:30pm. Come out for a fun-filled afternoon at the ranch. Experience what granny called her “weekly affliction” and play games from 100 years ago. The ranch is located at the corner of Camino Verde and Manila Dr. in San Jose. (408) 226-5453.
  • Saturday, June 12, Carnivorous Plants Night, Santa Teresa County Park’s Historic Bernal Ranch, 7:30-10:30pm. Explore the world of carnivorous plants with experts. Meet some real meat-eating flora up close and take home your own Venus Fly Trap. End the night by munching on popcorn and watching “Little Shop of Horrors” in the historic barn. Reservations required. (408) 226-5453.
  • Friday, June 18, Exploring Local Wildlife Hike, Rancho San Vicente, 5:30pm-8:00pm. Learn about local wildlife and tracking skills on this strenuous 2-mile hike in a beautiful future County Park. Meet at the Calero Reservoir parking lot to caravan to the tour location nearby. Bring sturdy hiking shoes, water, flashlight and binoculars (optional). Reservations required prior to 6/17. Note: This hike is in a “closed area” not yet open for public access. Restrooms not available except at meeting location. Pre-registration required. (408) 323-1107.
  • Saturday, June 26, Festival in the Park – Where Wellness Meets FUN! Hellyer County Park, 11:00am – 4:00pm. This 4th annual event’s goal is to help families take charge of their health, learn how to eat nutritiously, make healthy life choices and get physically fit. FREE admission, information, health and recreation opportunities, food, entertainment and FUN! (408) 355-2240.
  • Saturday, July 10, Wash Day and Old Time Games, Santa Teresa County Park’s Historic Bernal Ranch, 1:00pm-3:30pm. Come out for a fun-filled afternoon at the ranch. Experience what granny called her “weekly affliction” and play games from 100 years ago. The ranch is located at the corner of Camino Verde and Manila Dr. in San Jose. (408) 226-5453.
  • Saturday, July 10, Bug Out Night -Ants, Santa Teresa County Park’s Historic Bernal Ranch, 7:30pm-10:30pm. Explore the fascinating world of ants, try a unique chocolate covered treat and munch on popcorn while watching the classic big-bug movie “Them”. Reservations required. (408) 226-5453.
  • Saturday, July 10, Chitactac Family Day, Chitactac-Adams Heritage County Park, 10:00am-2:00pm. Families and friends are invited to a special day of hands-on activities, demonstrations, traditional crafts at this celebration of the native Ohlone People who once lived at this ancient village site. (408) 323-0107.
  • Saturday, July 17, Ranger-led Hike, Rancho San Vicente, 9:00am-11:00am. Take a strenuous 2-mile hike with at Park Ranger to explore this neighbor to Calero and future County Park. Learn about the history of the rancho property and explore plants and wildlife living here. Meet at Calero Reservoir to caravan to tour site nearby. Bring sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection and water. Note: This hike is in a “closed area” not yet open for public access. Restrooms not available except at meeting location. (408) 268-3883.
  • Saturday, July 17, Raptors in the Wind Hike, Santa Teresa County Park, 10:00am-12:00pm. Join a Park Ranger on a 2-mile hike to explore our local winged hunters in the sky. Learn about a raptor’s role in the environment and how to easily identify these hawks, falcons and eagles. Bring water, sun protection and sturdy hiking shoes. Field guides and binoculars recommended. Meet at the Pueblo Group Area. (408) 225-0225.
  • Saturday, August 14, Lost in Space Night, Santa Teresa County Park’s Historic Bernal Ranch, 7:30pm-10:30pm. Join park staff and astronomers from the San Jose Astronomical Society to explore the night sky through computer-guided telescopes. Munch on popcorn while watching old TV episodes of “Lost in Space” – Danger Will Robinson, Danger! Reservations required. (408) 226-5453.
  • Saturday, August 21, Family Fandango, Santa Teresa County Park’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 372 Manila Dr., San Jose. (408) 846-5632.
  • Friday, August 27, Tragedy of the Berryessas Hike, Rancho San Vicente, 6:00pm-8:00pm. Take a hike into the past in this future County Park. Learn of the tragedies that befell the Berryessa family and their rancho. Explore historic connections to the New Almaden Mines and take in spectacular views of New Almaden and Ranchos San Vicente and Los Capintancillos. Meet at the Calero Reservoir parking lot to caravan to the nearby tour location. Bring sturdy hiking shoes, water, flashlight and binoculars (optional). Reservations required prior to 8/23. Note: This hike is in a “closed area” not yet open for public access. Restrooms not available except at meeting location. Pre-registration required, space limited. (408) 323-1107.
  • Saturday, Sept. 11, Ranger-led Habitat Hike, Calero County Park’s Rancho San Vicente, 8:30am -10:30am. Come on a moderate 2-mile hike to explore the grassland and serpentine surroundings of this future parkland. Meet at the Calero Reservoir parking lot, then caravan together to the adjacent Rancho San Vicente property. Bring sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection and water. Note: This hike is in a “closed area” not yet open for public access. Restrooms not available except at meeting location. (408) 268-3883.
  • Saturday, Sept. 11, Bug Out Night,Santa Teresa County Park’s Historic Bernal Ranch, 7:30pm-10:30pm. Join experts for a show and tell about orthoptera (grasshoppers and crickets). Taste an exotic treat from central Mexico and hear interesting stories about these strange looking creatures. Afterwards, munch on popcorn while watching the big-bug classic movie “The Beginning of the End”. Reservations required. (408) 226-5453.
  • Saturday, September 18, Santa Teresa Community Fest at George Page Park, 11 am to 5 pm.
  • Saturday, September 18, Raptors in the Wind Hike, Santa Teresa County Park, 4:00pm-6:00pm. Join a Park Ranger on a 2-mile hike to explore our local winged hunters in the sky. Learn about a raptor’s role in the environment and how to easily identify these hawks, falcons and eagles. Bring water, sun protection and sturdy hiking shoes. Field guides and binoculars recommended. Meet at the Pueblo Group Area. (408) 225-0225.
  • Saturday, September 25, Healthy Trails Hike, Santa Teresa County Park, 9:00am-11:00am. Join Docent Cait Hutnik on a moderately challenging 2.5-mile hike along the Fortini Trail. See beautiful views of the Santa Teresa Hills, Calero Reservoir and the Almaden Valley. Meet at the Fortini Trailhead parking lot. Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, snack, and camera. (408) 355-2240.
  • Saturday, October 2, Introduction to Photography Class, Santa Teresa County Park’s Historic Bernal Ranch, 9:30am – 12:30pm. Join Docent Ron Horii for a free outdoor photography workshop. Learn how to choose and use a camera, take better outdoor pictures, compose a photo, plus more! Class begins with an indoor slideshow, then goes outside for demonstrations and a walk around the historic area to take pictures. Bring a camera - any kind will do! Open to ages 14 and up - limit 20 participants. Meet at the Bernal Ranch barn on Manila Drive at Camino Verde in San Jose. Reservations required. Call or register online (408) 355-2240.
  • Saturday October 9th, 2010, Grand Re-Dedication -- Casa Grande and Pioneer Day, Open House from 11 am to 3 pm, Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum 21350 Almaden Road New Almaden, CA 95042 (408) 323-1107. Festivities begin at noon. Activities, children’s games, entertainment, speeches, and special recognition of descendents of those who lived in the Casa Grande will be part of celebration. See the “Original Wells Fargo Stage Coach” and take rides on horse driven wagons from the parking lot to the Casa Grande.
  • Saturday, October 9, Ranger-led Hike, Calero County Park’s Rancho San Vicente, 9:00 am-11:00am. Take a strenuous 2-mile hike with a Park Ranger to explore this future parkland. Learn about the history of the rancho property and explore plants and wildlife living here. Meet at the Calero Reservoir parking lot, then caravan together to the adjacent Rancho San Vicente property. Bring sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection and water. Note: This hike is in a “closed area” not yet open for public access. Restrooms not available except at meeting location. (408) 268-3883.
  • Saturday, October 9, Nighttime Photography Class, Almaden Quicksilver County Park, 6:30pm-9:30pm. Bring your camera, tripod, shutter release and curiosity for an adventure into the night with Docent Marty Reinders and a Park Ranger. Learn about long exposure, star photography, lighting tricks and more! Meet at the Hacienda parking lot, then take a van ride up to English Camp. Bring comfortable shoes, insect repellent, and flashlight. Reservations required. Call or register online (408) 355-2240.
  • Thursday, October 21, Healthy Trails Toddler Trek, Santa Teresa  County Park, 4:30pm-6:00pm. Join Strollerhikes.com's Debbie Frazier on a moderate 2.5-mile hike geared towards families with young children. Enjoy historical sites along the way. Meet at the Fortini Trailhead Parking Lot. Bring sun protection, water, snacks and sturdy hiking shoes. (408) 355-2240.
  • Saturday, October 30, Spider Night, Santa Teresa County Park’s Historic Bernal Ranch, 7:30pm-10:30pm. 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 if you dare. Hear spider poems and folklore followed by popcorn, lemonade and the classic big-bug movie “Tarantula”. Reservations required. (408) 226-5453.
  • Saturday, November 6, REI Ridge Trail Service Day Volunteer Project, Santa Teresa County Park, 9:00am-1:00pm. This annual event includes projects to improve the Bay Area Ridge Trail. The Stiles Ranch at Santa Teresa Park is part of this year's efforts. Gloves, tools, water and snacks will be provided. Bring a refillable water bottle, hiking shoes, long pants, long-sleeve shirt and sun protection. 40 volunteers are needed for this project – rain or shine. Parking is limited-carpooling encouraged. Pre-registration required. (408) 355-2254.
  • Saturday, November 13, Introduction to Geocaching Class, Santa Teresa County Park, 8:45am-12:00pm. Join Docent Sam Drake on an adventure to learn about geocaching and seek out several caches along the Fortini, Mine and Stile Ranch Trails. GPS units provided. Meet at the Fortini Trailhead off of San Vicente Ave. Wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection and water. Reservations required. Call or register online (408) 355-2240.
  • Saturday, November 13, Pioneer Day, Almaden Quicksilver, 11 am to 3pm, celebrating the restoration of the Casa Grande. Park at the Hacienda entrance to Almaden Quicksilver.
  • Saturday, November 13, Lost in Space Night, Santa Teresa County Park’s Historic Bernal Ranch, 7:30pm-10:30pm. Join park staff and astronomers from the San Jose Astronomical Society to explore the night sky through computer-guided telescopes. Munch on popcorn while watching old TV episodes of “Lost in Space” – Danger Will Robinson, Danger! Reservations required. (408) 226-5453.
  • Friday, November 26- Friday, December 31, Fantasy of Lights, Vasona County Park, 6:00pm-10:00pm nightly. Come celebrate our 12th Anniversary of this drive-through holiday family favorite. See thousands of colorful twinkling lights and have loads of holiday fun. Admission fee required. For more information and pricing, go to www.parkhere.org. (408) 355-2201. Volunteers are needed nightly to help at the back gate providing visitor hospitality and safety services. Call (408) 355-2254 to sign up as a volunteer!
  • Friday, December 10 – Sunday, January 2, Yuletide Festivities at the Casa Grande, 12:00pm-4:00pm (Fridays-Sundays except Christmas Day). Take a visit back in time for a real holiday treat at the Casa Grande. Enjoy the afternoon in a beautiful Victorian setting while learning about local history in the Quicksilver Museum. Purchase holiday gifts and local crafts from our unique gift shop. Sip hot spiced cider, munch on delicious cookies and enjoy the holiday décor in this exquisite historic building. (408) 323-1107.
  • Saturday December 11, Visit Santa at the Ranch, Santa Teresa County Park’s Historic Bernal Ranch, 1:30pm-3:00pm. For the 6th year in a row Santa will bring his “Ho, Ho, Ho” to the ranch to hear Christmas wishes 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.

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See our News and Pictures Archive pages for information from 2001 to 2006, 2007 to 2008, 2009

Friends of Santa Teresa Park Meetings and Minutes:

 

Links 

Links on the Friends of Santa Teresa Park:


Links on Santa Teresa Park:


Parks and Trail Links: Community Links: Government Links: Historical Links

For more information on the Friends of Santa Teresa Park, contact Mike Boulland.

We welcome community contributions to our Website. If you have pictures, stories, announcements, questions, concerns, news, etc., please send them to Ronald Horii.

Legal disclaimer: as an organization, the Friends of Santa Teresa Park does not take an official group position on political candidates or ballot measures. Members or officers are free to take a position, but as private individuals only. If they list membership in the group, it should be construed as being for credential purposes only, not as an implication of group endorsement.

Created 6/2000, updated 12/4/2011 by Ronald Horii, secretary of the Friends of Santa Teresa Park