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

Explorer Hike: Chaparral Adventure

March 19, 2025
10:30 am - 2:30 pm
St. Joseph's Hill Preserve
Approximate Total Miles
4

Head out on a moderately-paced journey to the top of the hill along the Jones, Manzanita, and Novitiate trails hike with Docent Naturalists Nick Yatsko, Mary Brunkhorst, and Kate Bauer. You’ll hike through chaparral to observe and learn about this unique, quintessentially Californian habitat. Bring a lunch for a break with a view of Lexington Reservoir. (Note: Parking fills quickly in the pullout area on the eastern side, but there is the payment-required Lexington Reservoir Parking Area directly across Alma Bridge Road.)

Where to Meet

Meet at the County boat launch parking lot next to the Lexington Reservoir Dam. From southbound Highway 17, take the Bear Creek Road exit, cross over the highway, and go 0.4 miles north on Highway 17 to Alma Bridge Road. Follow Alma Bridge Rd. over the top of the dam. Continue beyond the dam as the road jogs to the right.  Turn right into the parking lot just before the road veers to the left. A Santa Clara County Park parking fee is in effect.

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