Our Saturday runs traverse trails in (3) adjacent parks: Stevens Creek County Park, Fremont Older Open Space Preserve, and Picchetti Ranch Open Space Preserve. Several prominent trail segments are described in more detail below.
Stevens Creek County Park
- Tony Look (aka “REI”)
- Constructed by hundreds of volunteers in partnership with REI, this shaded trail features at the start of many of our runs. From the parking lot, carefully descend the side of the reservoir, and then it’s about a 2.3-mile run along Tony Look to a water fountain and bathrooms where we often regroup and catch up for a while.
- Lookout Trail
- Following Tony Look, cross a bridge, then climb a series of eleven switchbacks (0.5 miles) to Inspiration Point and a view toward Mt Eden. Past the Lookout Trail is the Vista Trail and the start of Fremont Older.
- Rim Trail
- Follow the Rim Trail for small rolling hills and a tour of several charming picnic areas and the main park entrance. At one end (Villa Maria picnic area), an unnamed trail picks up and climbs to Coyote Ridge (Fremont Older). At the other end – just below the reservoir – is another connection to Tony Look and Coyote Ridge.
- Mt Eden & Stevens Canyon Rd
- Comprising the Canyon Trail and Mt Eden Trail, Mt Eden is a challenging climb from any direction, with a panoramic view at the top, and the famous painted rock (“The Rock”) just below the summit. Primary access to Mt Eden is from Stevens Canyon Rd, and this road continues another 3 miles to Upper Stevens Creek County Park. This section of road is the coolest spot in the park, so it makes for great summer running.
Fremont Older
- Coyote Ridge
- The spine of Fremont Older is Coyote Ridge. This broad fire road is a transit to several other trails and vista points. Take in the views from Maisie’s Peak (the highest point in Fremont Older) and Nob Hill. Also, the 3/4-mile descent towards the Rim Trail and Tony Look is fast and flowing – great for anyone who wants to try some speedwork. On the ridge, keep an eye out for horses and slow when passing.
- Fern Trail, Vista Trail, & Wedding Trail
- The top of Fremont Older is a nest of short unique trails, all worth exploring.
- Saratoga Trail, Parker Ranch Trail, & Garrod Farms / Garrod-Cooper Estate
- At the eastern boundary of Fremont Older is a popular pair of trails managed by the City of Saratoga, both of which offer solid climbs. Bounding the Saratoga Trail and Fermont Older is Garrod Farms (est. 1893). You can find water here, as well as wine, horseback riding and – in the summer – an outdoor concert series. While on the Garrod property, please respect the safety of the many horseback riders, and slow to a walk.
- Seven Springs
- Descend from Coyote Ridge at the Hayfields trail and enjoy the gentle descent and ascent of this 2-mile loop (or cut through the middle for a steeper climb). When you reach Hunter’s Point, pause for a moment to catch your breath and take in the view.
- Toyons
- Garrod Farms connects to Seven Springs via the Toyon Trail, (3) segments (longest-to-shortest in that direction) collectively called “the Toyons”. Eucalyptus is unique to this section of Fremont Older, and the steep-but-runnable grade is a delight.
Picchetti
- Zinfandel, Bear Meadow, & Picchetti Winery
- The Zinfandel trail actually starts in Stevens Creek County Park, but it crosses into Picchetti, and that’s where you’ll find the best views of the reservoir. Continue further, and you’ll reach Picchetti Winery. Maybe stop for a drink and then finish your loop descending Montebello Rd. Alternatively, a popular way to start our runs is to go 3/4 miles along Stevens Canyon Rd and then climb up through Bear Meadow, before taking Zinfandel back towards Stevens Creek County Park.