Hikers in Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve / photo by Lanette Otvos

A Cold War Sentinel on Mt. Umunhum

February 17, 2024
1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Sierra Azul Preserve
Approximate Total Miles
.25

What was it like living and working at the Almaden Air Force Station during the Cold War? Join Midpen Ranger Ken Miller for a leisurely-paced walk while learning about daily life at this small, remote community located on a high peak in the Santa Cruz Mountains. You'll walk for approximately 1/4 mile including up and down 159 steps.

Where to Meet

Meet at the Mt. Umunhum Summit Parking Area at the top of Mt. Umunhum Road. Exit Highway 85 at Camden Avenue. (From Southbound Hwy. 85 turn left on Camden Ave. From northbound Hwy. 85 turn left on Branham Avenue, then left on Camden Ave.) Travel on Camden Ave. about 1.6 miles. Turn right on Hicks Road and travel for about 6.3 miles. Turn right on Mt. Umunhum Road and travel for 5.3 miles to the preserve parking lot on the left.

To ensure your experience on a docent naturalist outing is enjoyable please review these activity guidelines.

If your activity requires registration, please be sure to cancel your reservation (from your confirmation email) if you are no longer able to attend so others can participate.

After your participation on a guided activity please share your feedback — your input is meaningful to our volunteers and program staff – thank you!