Saratoga Gap Preserve

Overview

Hours

Open a half-hour before sunrise until a half-hour after sunset.

Saratoga Gap Open Space Preserve is a 1,600-acre outdoor adventure located at the junction of Highway 35 and Highway 9 in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The Sempervirens Fund provided critical support for acquisition of portions of this preserve.

Hiking: All Trails

Bicycling: All Trails

Equestrian: All Trails

Dogs on Leash: Not Permitted

No Easy Access

Camping: No Camping

Restrooms: Not Available

Download Map Trail Closures

Stories from the Preserves

Sudden Oak Death

Midpen staff research and monitor sudden oak death (SOD) in more than half the open space lands…

Wildland Fire Takes a Village

Midpen forms part of the Los Gatos Creek Watershed Collaborative, a joint group taking a holistic…

Midpen’s Wildland Fire Resiliency Program is a Year-Round Effort

Midpen is working year-round to implement our new Wildland Fire Resiliency Program, which increases…

Saratoga to the Skyline Trail

The Saratoga to the Skyline Trail is a 9.7-mile trail uniting the City of Saratoga's Quarry Park…

Know Before You Go

Preserve regulations help provide a safe, enjoyable visit while protecting sensitive areas and wildlife.

Share the Trail

Use designated trails to avoid damage to natural resources and prevent injury.
Avoid blocking the trail. Step aside to allow others to pass .
Whether you’re walking or biking, always yield to equestrians.
Leave no trace. Pack out what you pack in. Most preserves do not have trash cans. Littering is prohibited.
Abuses of trail etiquette should be brought to the attention of a ranger or call the Midpen main office at 650-691-1200.

Bicyclists: Bicycles are allowed on designated trails only (marked on map). Helmets are required. Observe the 15 mph trail speed limit (5 mph when passing). E-bikes are not allowed on most Midpen trails. Avoid startling hikers and equestrians by announcing your presence when approaching from behind. For more information visit the Bicycle Access page.

Dogs: Dogs are not allowed in this Preserve. For information on dog-friendly preserves visit the Dog Access page. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Midpen accommodates service dogs in preserves wherever we allow public access.

Drones and Model Aircraft: Drones, model airplanes and model rockets are NOT allowed.

Equestrians: Horses are allowed on designated trails (marked on map). Helmets are recommended for all equestrians. For more information visit the Equestrian Access page.

Fires are prohibited in preserves.
Plants & Wildlife: Please leave undisturbed. If you encounter wildlife during a visit, do not approach, startle or feed it. Although wild animals are generally fearful of humans and will run away, some wildlife can be dangerous.
Smoking is prohibited in preserves.
Water Areas: Swimming, wading or engaging in any water-contact activity is prohibited.
Weapons are prohibited in preserves.

Midpen trails and facilities are generally very safe. However, you are entering an environment where there are some naturally occurring hazards. Reasonable caution and common sense should be utilized when venturing into any outdoor environment.

Do not leave valuables in your vehicle! Lock your vehicle and store valuables out of sight or take them with you on the trail.
Travel in groups of two or more. Two of more people can assist each other in the event of an accident or emergency.
Dress for the environment. Temperature changes can be occur and you should dress in layers appropriate for the location, time of year and planned activities.
Carry water with you. Drinking water is not available at most Midpen preserves so you should bring your own. Two quarts per person per two hour hike is recommended.
Apply sunscreen and drink plenty of water prior to and during your outdoor activities.
Be aware that cell service is very sporadic on the preserves.

Be Prepared and Aware

Plan ahead before you leave. Check regulations and weather, download a map, pack water and first aid.
Know your limits and take safety precautions.
Rattlesnakes are native to this area and are especially active in warm weather.
Poison oak grows on most preserves: Learn to identify and avoid it in all seasons.
Ticks are present in this area and may carry diseases.
Mountain lions are a natural part of this region’s environment and are occasionally seen.

In Case of Emergency

If you experience an emergency (fire, accident or other immediate threat to life or property), call 911. For nonemergencies, call 650-691-1200.

Language:

Saratoga Gap Preserve

Overview

Saratoga Gap Trail

Preserve Highlights & Features

Lichen and Moss