Please note that the parking area has been changed from what was listed in Views and on the poster in the preserve signboards.
Dust off your magnifying loupe—and your high school biology!—to get a hands-on look at the sex lives of some familiar spring wildflowers on this leisurely-paced hike along the Woods Trail. Led by Docent Naturalists Frances Reneau and Helena Cohen, you’ll likely see an abundance of species, including hound’s tongues, woodland stars, buttercups, and milkmaids displaying their “come hither” reproductive organs to the pollinators. What is the purpose of the diverse array of colors, sizes and shapes, if not just to delight our eyes? (Note: A couple magnifying loupes may be available but please bring yours if you have one.)
Meet at the Jacques Ridge Parking Area near the intersection of Hicks Road and Mt. Umunhum Road in San Jose. Exit Highway 85 at Camden Avenue. (From northbound Hwy. 85 turn left on Branham Avenue and then turn left on Camden Ave. and from southbound Hwy. 85 turn left on Camden Ave.) Travel on Camden Ave. about 1.6 miles. Turn right on Hicks Rd. and travel for about 6.3 miles. Turn right on Mt. Umunhum Rd. The preserve parking lot will be on the right.