New Almaden Quicksilver County Park Association Homepage

Welcome to the New Almaden Quicksilver County Park Association (NAQCPA) website. Our purpose is to promote the educational and interpretive activities of the Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation Department, particularly in Almaden Quicksilver County Park. See below for information about NAQCPA, our past and present activities, and how you can join or help with the park. Also below is information about Almaden Quicksilver County Park, maps, trail descriptions, and park events. See the links on the side for related websites.

News:

Note: See here for archived news from 2015 and 2016. The following is news from 2017:

On 1/28/17, docent Cait Hutnik led a lichen discovery hike at the Wood Road entrance.

Trail closures

Seen on 3/6/17, the Hacienda Trail between the Norton and English Camp Trails was closed due to landslides. The Randol Trail is also closed, but that's customary for winter. For trail closure information, call (408) 355-2200. 2017's storms have severely impacted parks and trails all throughout Santa Clara County.

The Santa Clara County Parks is updating their Strategic Plan in 2017. It was last updated in 2003. These are their goals:

Update the Long-Range Vision.
Assess key systems, procedures, policies, facilities, trends, and conditions in a comprehensive Needs Assessment.
Present Refined Procedural and Policy Guidelines to make standard operating processes clearer, faster, and more effective.
Assess the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) process and develop new Priority-Setting Criteria that integrate consideration of operational costs.
Develop a 3-5 year Action Plan for near-term implementation of the Integrated CIP.

See ourfutureparks.org for more information.

The input of the people who live, work, and/or play in Santa Clara County is critical to the Strategic Plan Update. Opportunities to provide your input during the planning process will be posted on the website and will include:

Online Engagement. Provide your input by completing a short activity on your computer or device. The first activity is planned for Spring, 2017 and will be posted on the website.

Events. Visit the Strategic Plan Update table when attending a regional event. The table will provide information as well as opportunities to provide your comments. The first events that will include a Strategic Plan table are anticipated for Spring 2017 and will be posted on the calendar.

Meetings. Attend a public meeting where the Strategic Plan will be presented and discussed. Meetings will include Parks & Recreation Commission (PRC), Housing, Land Use, Environment and Transportation Committee (HLUET), and Board of Supervisors meetings. All meetings will be posted on the calendar.

On February 6, 2017, C-Span interviewed Luke Bailey and Kitty Monahan for a story about mining in San Jose. It was part of their 2017 Local Content Vehicles tour of San Jose, featuring the history and literary life of the community.

Lacers at Living History Day, 3/11/17

The Golden Gate Lacers had a display on lacing at Living History Day on 3/11/17.

La Foret Restaurant

After 38 years, the La Foret Restaurant closed. The last day of service was on March 26, 2017. Chef John Davoudi and his business partner Mike Mashayekh opened the restaurant in 1978 in the historic Hacienda Hotel building. The closure was due to Chef Davoudi's retirement for health reasons. The hotel was built in 1848 and rebuilt in 1875 after a fire. It was the first two-story hotel in California. It because a boardinghouse for miners from the Almaden Mines. In the 1930s, it became Cafe Del Rio, which operated for 40 years. Here is the story. Buyers have expressed interest in the property, so there may be another restaurant here in the future.

This billboard is on St. John Street, east of Market Street in downtown San Jose. It shows the Castillero Trail in Almaden Quicksilver. Ron Horii took the picture. It is part of the County Parks' "Wish you were here?" publicity campaign. Pictures of County Parks are on billboards and the backs of buses all throughout San Jose, mostly in heavily urbanized areas. The campaign started in May and will run until the end of July. Here are pictures of all the billboards.

The same picture of the Castillero Trail is on the back of this bus.

On May 9, 2017, the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority announced it had purchased the 51.78-acre Pfeiffer Property in the Santa Teresa Hills, overlooking the Almaden Valley. Here is a view of the property in the Santa Teresa Hills, as seen from the Mine Hill Trail in Almaden Quicksilver. Here is a presentation about it.

On 5/12/17, volunteers and staff who will be working at "Play Like a Miner" met at the Casa Grande to go over plans for the event, which will be held on 6/24/17. Here are some of the staff and volunteers.

Mural on wall on Almaden Road

Description of this mural from angecox.com: "Roger Papesh commissioned Andrea “Ange” Cox to do a collection of scenes chosen by the artist from the early history of the New Almaden Mine. A 4 foot by 36 foot mural was created on a cement wall next to 21744 Almaden Road, San Jose, California, which is across from the Hacienda entrance to Almaden Quicksilver County Park. The mural is a small representation of the 170+ years of New Almaden history in art and literature."

Cougar Talk, Mockingbird Hill Lane, 5/27/17

On 5/27/17, Ranger Gina Ellis gave a talk about cougars at the Mockingbird Hill Lane Staging Area of Almaden Quicksilver.

On 6/2/17, Mike Boulland and Ron Horii met with Michele Dexter of San Jose Parks and two members of the Chinese community, Adam and Jenny, who were interested in the restoration of the Chinese pagoda, also known as the tea house, that was on the grounds of the Casa Grande. It was a gift from the Chinese emperor, who was grateful for the mercury from Almaden Mines.

We found out the Chinese call this type of pavilion a "ting," which also means cooling kiosk. It is a resting place and is very common in China. Mike gave a slideshow presentation about the building project. Adam has connections in China that may be interested in supporting it.

On 6/3/17, there was a dedication ceremony for the Lisa Killough Trail in the new Rancho San Vicente addition to Calero County Park. Above is the ribbon-cutting for the trail, which was named in honor of Lisa Killough, who was the director of the County Parks. She was instrumental in the acquisition of Rancho San Vicente. She was appreciative of volunteers and frequently came to events, such as Pioneer Day. (Here are pictures of Lisa Killough at park events.) Sadly, she died of cancer on February 22, 2016. A memorial service was held in her honor at the Casa Grande on April 30, 2016. Rancho San Vicente will be open to the public later this year. Connections to Almaden Quicksilver are being studied.

The Hacienda Trail was closed this winter after a half of it washed down the hill. The trail is open again, but there are signs warning about it. This is the washed out section (taken on 6/5/17).

NAQCPA Board at Roberto Adobe

On 6/10/17, NAQCPA members got a tour of the historic Roberto Adobe & Sunol House on Lincoln Avenue. Here is the history of the building. (Picture from Mike Boulland.)

Play Like a Miner, 7/7/17

Play Like a Miner was held at the Casa Grande on 6/24/17. Here are more pictures of the event.

San Cristobal Mine closure

The San Cristobal Mine entrance is currently closed due to damage to the tunnel's ceiling. It is being repaired. (Picture taken 8/7/17.)

Solar-powered horse trough at Wood Road Trailhead

Solar-powered horse trough at Wood Road Trailhead

There is a new horse trough at the Wood Road Trail staging area on Hicks Road. It uses a solar-powered pump to fill the trough.

Calcine removal sign

These signs are posted at park trailheads. It lists temporary trail closures for the project to remove calcines (processed mercury ore) from old mine roads in the park, which are now used as trails. Here's what the Parks Department says about it: "Contractors will begin to remove the concentrated calcine waste material that was used to pave many of the access trails. In addition, after removal of this waste material and deposited in an on-site protected landfill, the trails will be remediated with a baserock material mixed, graded and compacted. By removing such calcine material, it will prevent further runoff and contamination of the waterways leading to the Guadalupe River and San Francisco Bay. The construction project will begin during the third week of June, 2017 and conclude in the third week of October 2017. Mine Hill Trail originating from the Hacienda Park Entrance will be open during construction, however, this trail will be the main route for construction vehicle and heavy loaded truck access. Access will be limited with periodic closures of the following trails: Mine Hill Trail, Castillero Trail, April Trail, Randol Trail and Yellow Kid Trail. Detour signs will be posted at key locations along these trails." Here is more information: https://www.sccgov.org/sites/parks/PlansProjects/Pages/calcine-roads-remediation-project.aspx

Calcine removal work on the Mine Hill Trail

This is the Mine Hill Trail near the San Cristobal Mine (taken 8/7/17). Calcines have been removed from the trail surface. On the left are rolls of wattles, which will be used as part of the restoration of the trail.

La Foret Restaurant undergoing renovation

La Foret Restaurant undergoing renovation

The La Foret restaurant has been sold to local restaurateurs and is currently undergoing renovation. It will re-open under the same name and will keep its famous French and continental menu. (Picture taken 8/7/17.)

Woods Trail, Mt. Umunhum Road

This is the trailhead for the Woods Trail, next to Mt. Umunhum Road (currently closed for construction). It is across Hicks Road from the Wood Road Trail entrance to Almaden Quicksilver. The Woods Trail or Mt. Umunhum Road can be taken to reach the summit of Mt. Umunhum, which is on the right. It will have a grand opening on September 17. It will be open to the public on September 18. (Picture taken 8/8/17.)

On 8/12/17, the Volunteer Recognition Barbecue was held at the Casa Grande. Volunteers were treated to a barbecue lunch and recognized for their service. Here is the list of lifetime volunteer service hours.

Chinese pagoda poles

On 8/25/17, a group of volunteers, including NAQCPA members, interested parties from the Chinese and New Almaden community, and Rotary Club representatives, met at the parking lot of the Casa Grande to examine and document the poles from the historic Chinese Pagoda. It was originally a gift of the Chinese emperor (see above). It was destroyed in a flood. All that's left are these poles and a piece of the screen, which is in the museum.

On 9/9/17, the annual New Almaden Day Jump-In Parade was held. Here are pictures from the parade: Part 1, Part 2,

New Almaden Day Carnival, 9/9/17

On 9/9/17, on New Almaden Day, after the parade, a carnival was held at the New Almaden Community Center. Here are pictures of the carnival.

Mt. Umunhum Opening

On 9/17/17, there was a grand opening for Mt. Umunhum. The event was free, but it required a ticket. Tickets "sold out" in only 9 minutes after they were made available. Since parking at the top was limited and was being used for the celebration, participants were bused in from staging areas. One of them was the Hacienda Area overflow lot at Almaden Quicksilver. Guests were dropped of at the top of Mt. Umunhum. They got to tour the new facilities on top of the mountain. Some groups went on guided hikes down the new 3.6 mile trail from the mountaintop to the Bald Mountain staging area, where buses took them back to the Hacienda Area. Here are pictures of the tour of the mountaintop facilities. Here are pictures of the new Mt. Umunhum Trail. Now that the mountaintop is open, there are large crowds trying to go up there on weekends, only to find the parking lots at the top and at Bald Mountain full, along with the small Woods Trail lot on Hicks Road. People have been parking across Hicks Road at Almaden Quicksilver's Wood Road Entrance, filling up the lot and boxing in equestrian trailers. Equestrians may want to avoid the Wood Road entrance on weekends until the crowds going to Mt. Umunhum thin out.

This mountain lion warning sign was posted at the park entrance at the end of McAbee Road.

Art Boudreault at Pioneer Day 10-14-17

On 10/14/17, NAQCPA celebrated its 35th anniversary at its annual Pioneer Day Celebration. It was held at the Hacienda Outdoor Mining Display. Mike Cox was the Master of Ceremonies. County Parks Director Robb Courtney thanked NAQCPA for their years of service to the park. Art Boudreault (above) and Don Weidon talked about the history of NAQCPA. John Drew and Larry Drew Hawkinson talked about their families, who worked in the New Almaden Mines. Entertainment was provided by the Santa Clara Valley Fiddlers Association. Katie Mapes Dini served lunch. Jim Campbell displayed his artwork. There were lots of raffle prizes.

Living History Day, 11/18/17, Casa Grande

On 11/18/17, Holiday Living History Day was held at the Casa Grande. Docents Jim and Kathy have a leather-punching and bead necklace-making activity above. See here for more pictures.

Mapbox sign

There are signs on map boxes saying the map inventory is low. There is a QR code on the sign that can be scanned to download a PDF of the map.

Restroom signboard

There's a new information station on the restroom at the Hacienda entrance to the park. It has a bulletinboard and map holders. The restroom was closed for awhile due to plumbing problems. It's open again.

The County Parks' newest #PixInParks Challenge includes a route in Almaden Quicksilver County Park. It starts at the Wood Road Trail (picture above) and makes a loop around Mine Hill on the Castillero and Mine Hill Trails, before returning on the Wood Road Trail. Points of interest along the way include the Mine Hill Rotary Furnace, English Camp, the San Cristobal Mine, and Bull Run. It follows the same route as this Healthy Trails hike in 2009.

There was a CNPS/Open Space Authority plant hike at Almaden Quicksilver on 1/14/18. Docents and plant experts led a hike up the English Camp Trail to English Camp, then went down the Deep Gulch Trail. Here are pictures from the hike.

Castillero Trail after Calcine Roads Project, 1/21/18

The Calcine Paved Roads Remediation Project has been completed. This is the Castillero Trail. Calcines, which are waste rock from mercury smelting, were removed from the trails (see 8/7/17 picture above), and the trails were resurfaced with gravel. Above is the Castillero Trail just east of the Hacienda Cemetery Trail junction. The trail branching off to the left is an old mine road leading to the Upper Velasco Cut. It's been resurfaced and may become a trail someday. (Picture taken 1/21/18.)

Taken on 1/21/18: The San Cristobal Mine, which had a fence at the opening due to a landslide-caused roof collapse deep in the tunnel (see picture from 8/7/17 above), is now open partway. Boards block access to the area beyond, which has the collapsed roof.

Living History Day was held at the Casa Grande on 2/11/18. There were Valentine's Day crafts for kids.

Julie Lee, manager of the County Parks' Volunteer Program sent out a letter announcing the new County-wide Samaritan volunteer management system. She also sent out a "how to" guide with a FAQs section. Volunteers will be using the system to enter their hours and can search for volunteer opportunities. There will be training sessions announced. Here is the link to Samaritan.

Almaden Quicksilver County Park has a new neighbor: the 966-acre Rancho San Vicente addtion to Calero County Park, which opened on 3/24/18. (See Rancho San Vicente Opening Day, 3/24/18.) The main entrance and parking lot is on McKean Road opposite Fortini Road, which leads to the Stile Ranch/Fortini entrance of Santa Teresa County Park. There is a neighborhood entrance on Almaden Road, on the other side of the street from 20491. There is no parking lot there, only limited street parking. It is a long way from the entrances to Almaden Quicksilver trailheads at the moment. It is approximately halfway between the Mockingbird Hill Lane and Hacienda entrances at Almaden Quicksilver, though there is talk of someday opening another entrance near the bridge on north Bertram Road. At the Almaden Road entrance, there is this bridge above, which leads across Alamitos Creek to the new Almaden Trail in Rancho San Vicente. Here are pictures of this entrance and trail: Rancho San Vicente Almaden Road Entrance, 3/25/18.

The County Parks has a new interactive webpage showing the best trails for viewing wildflowers in the parks. Three of the featured trails are in Almaden Quicksilver: the Senador Mine Trail, the Castillero Trail, and the New Almaden Trail. Two of the featured trails are in Santa Teresa Park: the Rocky Ridge Trail and the Stile Ranch Trail. Another is nearby in Calero (Rancho San Vicente). You can also download a printed wildflower guide.

Here 3 NAQCPA and FOSTP (Friends of Santa Teresa Park) members are receiving lifetime volunteer service awards (left to right): 13,500 hours for NAQCPA President and FOSTP Vice President Kitty Monahan, 28,500 hours for Grant Park docent Ron Bricmont, 11,000 hours for NAQCPA Webmaster and FOSTP Secretary Ron Horii, and 8,000 hours for NAQCPA Board Member and FOSTP President Mike Boulland. Volunteer Program Manager Julie Lee is on the right. Here are pictures from the Volunteer Recognition Event at Hellyer County Park.

Living History Day was held at the Casa Grande on 5/6/18. Helping out were (clockwise from the top) Docent Doug, Park Interpreters Natasha, Chris, & Kelsi. See here for more pictures from this event.

Play Like a Miner will be held at the Casa Grande on July 21, 2018 from 11 am to 3 pm. Join in for a fun day of learning what it was like to be a miner long ago. There will be games, demonstrations and crafts as well as an opportunity to try your hand at panning for gold and precious gems.A fun event for the whole family. Here are pictures from last year's Play Like a Miner.

The Parks For Life Challenge is a FREE game that is hosted by the Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation Department to help you and your friends and family get outside and engage in healthy activities in our lovely 48,000 acre park system. Teams of 2 to 3 players sign up, and then choose to participate in outdoor adventures in any one of our 28 regional parks. Document your adventures by posting photos or videos on your social media sites to compete for awesome prizes. For more details and to sign up, see here.

NAQCPA accepts donations of time, effort, artifacts and money. At NAQCPA, our most valuable resources are the time and effort of volunteers to help with various projects. Since NAQCPA is a not-for-profit 501c3 corporation recognized by the state of California and the IRS, donations may qualify to be tax-deductible depending on your circumstances.

To donate time as a museum docent, to walk students around the community, as an archives recorder, to clean up trails etc., call Kitty Monahan at 408-268-6541 or the park interpreters at the New Almaden Mining Museum, 408-323-1107.

If you have photos, books, magazine articles or other artifacts from or about New Almaden that you want preserved for future generations, please consider donating them to NAQCPA for use in the archives and in the museum. You will receive a receipt that identifies its value for IRS Tax deductibility purposes. To donate these items, call Kitty Monahan at 408-268-6541 or the Santa Clara County park interpreters at the New Almaden Mining Museum, 408-323-1107, or bring them to the museum during visiting hours.

Funds are important to purchase books and other artifacts that become available on the market, for special projects, such as the blacksmith shop restoration, preserving the map table, building new exhibits for the museum, improving the Archives computer and software, preserving artifacts, and for many other projects. To donate money, please write a check and mail it to:

If you live in or near the Santa Clara Valley or Silicon Valley in Northern California or are planning a trip to the area, you may enjoy a visit to the New Almaden Quicksilver County Park. Come and see our beautiful park and learn about its wildlife, and many historic photographs, writings, relics, and landmarks. You can reach the park office at (408) 268-3883.

Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum

The Casa Grande and the Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum were closed for renovation starting in 2009. The Grand Re-Opening ceremony was held on Pioneer Day, November 13, 2010. It re-opened on January 14, 2011. The museum is open-year round Fridays through Tuesdays except for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year's Day. The museum is closed Wednesdays and Thursdays. You can reach the museum at (408) 323-1107. It is located at 21350 Almaden Road in New Almaden. These are the hours:

Mondays	12pm - 4pm
Tuesdays	12pm - 4pm
Wednesdays	Closed
Thursdays	Closed
Fridays	12pm - 4pm
Saturdays	10am - 4pm
Sundays	10am - 4pm

Many NAQCPA members serve as docents in the museum, giving guided tours. There are frequent events at the Casa Grande, such as Living History Days, Play Like a Miner, a yuletide bazaar, and historical talks. See the events calendar below. The grounds are also available for rent for special occasions, such as weddings, parties, and company picnics.

One of the period rooms in the Casa Grande

Mining exhibits in the Mining Museum

Mining exhibits in the Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum

See Ron Horii's picture and description of the Casa Grande for the Visual San Jose 2015 Photo Contest.

Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum Gift Shop

The Casa Grande has a bookstore and gift shop. It is decorated with historic portraits. For sale are books on history, minerals, flowers, wildlife, and children's activities. They also have maps, nature guides, colorful rocks, jewelry, educational toys, and artwork. Some of the publications available in the store were written by NAQCPA members.

These portraits of the New Almaden Mine managers were painted by local artist Gilian Altieri

The painting of the Casa Grande above the fireplace was painted by Gilian Altieri

Mining Museum Archives

The Archives of the New Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum are now online. NAQCPA members have been helping to scan in thousands of historical documents and pictures into the archive. The archives are available for searching and viewing. You can search for specific topics using keywords or just display random images to get a sample of the collection. You can order high-resolution images without watermarks. Here is an example of an historic photo from the archives:

Historical picture of the Hacienda Reduction Works from the archive

This yard, at the former site of the Hacienda Reduction Works, contains a collection of equipment from the New Almaden Mine and the Guadalupe mine. One item of particular interest is an old wooden Cornish pump from an English design which was used to pump water out of the mine shafts. Another unusual item, a cylindrical piece of machinery, was a small rotary furnace used for extracting Mercury from crushed cinnabar ore.

This is a more recent picture from the archives, taken in 1952. The Casa Grande and its grounds were used for a resort called Club Almaden. There was a swimming pool in back.

Hacienda Mining Display Outdoor Museum

Outdoor mining museum displays

Displays at the Hacienda Outdoor Museum

For years, there was an unorganized collection of rusting mining equipment sitting behind a fence in the Hacienda area of Almaden Quicksilver near the Deep Gulch Trail entrance. Above is how it looked in 2008.

Bruce Bartlett at the outdoor museum dedication

NAQCPA members, led by Bruce Bartlett (above), organized, repaired, and re-arranged the equipment and added other mining equipment. They had interpretive signs made, paid for the fencing, and created life-size figures.

Pioneer Days

Kitty Monahan welcoming guests to Pioneer Day 2014

Pioneer Day 2014, Rossi Retort Dedication

For over 34 years, NAQCPA has held their annual Pioneer Day celebration in Almaden Quicksilver County Park, in partnership with the County Parks Department. The original purpose of Pioneer Day was to be a get-together to share stories with former New Almaden miners and people who remembered the mines. While that is still the case, it has also been associated with the dedication of historic sites, interpretive signs, or projects in the park. Most of these were NAQCPA projects, or NAQCPA members were involved with them. Pioneer Day for 2017 will be held on October 14 at 11:00 am at the Hacienda Mining Display Outdoor Museum (see 2011 and 2013).

Self-running slideshows (Windows only):

New Almaden Days

New Almaden Jump-In Parade, 9/13/14

The Santa clara County Horsemen's Association at the Jump-In Parade, 9/13/14

For more than 34 years, the community of New Almaden has held their New Almaden Day community celebration, kicked off by the Jump-In parade. It's an informal parade around the town, where anyone can jump in and join. Afterwards, there is a carnival held at the New Almaden Community Center, featuring games, prizes, food, and entertainment. This year's New Almaden Day and Jump-In Parade will be held on Saturday September 9, 2017, starting at 11:00 am at the New Almaden Community Center.

Pictures from New Almaden Coummunity Day 9/8/07: Jump-In Parade on Bertram Road, Jump-In Parade on Almaden Road, Dedication of Pat Tillman Memorial, and the BBQ and Games at the New Almaden Community Center.
New Almaden Community Day Sept. 13, 2008: Jump-In Parade, BBQ and Games.
Almaden Times Weekly article on New Almaden Day, 9/12/09
New Almaden Jump-In Parade 9/11/10
Almaden Times Weekly article on the Jump-In Parade, Sept. 12-23 issue
New Almaden Community Day, Jump-In Parade 9/8/12
New Almaden Community Day 9/13/14: Jump-In Parade, Carnival at the New Almaden Community Center
Almaden Times Weekly article on the Jump-In Parade, see Sept. 19-Oct. 2, 2014 issue, page 4.
Facebook: New Almaden Day Jump-In Parade, 9/12/15
Facebook: New Almaden Day Carnival, 9/12/15
Facebook: New Almaden Day Jump-In Parade, 9/10/16
Facebook: New Almaden Day Carnival, 9/10/16
Facebook: New Almaden Day: Jump-In Parade, 9/9/17, Part 1, Part 2, Carnival

News, Media, Articles, and Links

Recipients of Lifetime Presidential Volunteer Service Award

Recipients of the Lifetime Presidential Volunteer Service Award (L to R): Art Boudreault, Roy Ichinaga, Ron Horii, Mike Boulland, Ranger John Heenan accepting for Richard and Margaret Brunner, Kitty Monahan, Jaime Day

Almaden Times Weekly article, "Living at the mines, circa 1880-1914: Quicksilver miners worked hard, played hard"
Almaden Times Weekly article, "History Repeats Itself: Two New Almaden Historic Homes Dedicated With Monuments"
The History of Mercury Emissions from the New Almaden Mines, Santa Clara County, California by Michael Cox
Bay Nature Magazine: Legacy of the Red Ore Almaden Quicksilver County Park by John Dorrance, 1/1/02
You can vote to save the Casa Grande! See here for details.
The County Parks' Healthy Trails program includes 2 trail routes in Almaden Quicksilver.
NAQCPA has adopted 3 trails in Quicksilver Park: The Yellow Kid, the Great Eastern and Day Tunnel, and the Deep Gulch Trail. The trail group meets on the second Wednesday of the month and drives up to the trail for work from 9 am to 11:30 am. We need volunteers to help in the spring and summer. Contact Kitty Monahan to volunteer.
Erosion Reconnaissance of the Almaden Quicksilver County Park, Santa Clara County, California, August 2007
San Jose Mercury News Section, Where We Live, Almaden Valley.
Open Road TV show on Almaden Quicksilver
Almaden Resident: Casa Grande in Quicksilver Park set for $5 million building restoration, March 6, 2009.
Hacienda and Deep Gulch Remediation Project Almaden Quicksilver County Park Final Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration, September 14, 2010
DAR honor renovation of Santa Clara County's Casa Grande and costuming of Feather Tippetts, 7/7/11
On November 18, 2014, the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors presented the Lifetime Presidential Volunteer Service Award to County Park volunteers (here is the list). They included several NAQCPA members and officers: Kitty Monahan, Mike Boulland, Art Boudreault, Bob Meyer, and Ron Horii. Here is the commendation letter from the President. Above is a picture of some of the award winners.
Hacienda and Deep Gulch Remediation Project
Environmental Review Documents for the Calcine Roads Remediation Project
Almaden Quicksilver County Park Final Trail Master Plan Report, October 1998
Casa Grande Historic Structure Report: Volume 1, Volume 2
Santa Clara County Parks Links:

SF Gate 9/24/14: "Take a trip back in time at Almaden Quicksilver County Park"
Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration for Calcine Roads Remediation Project March 2015
San Jose Mercury News 3/12/15: "Almaden Quicksilver Park: Then and Now in Pictures"
An episode of Open Road on NBC Bay Area (KNTV) featured the County Parks' Park for Life Challenge. It featured contestants at the Casa Grande and Uvas Canyon. Ron Horii's pictures are shown starting at 5:40.
Guadalupe River Watershed Mercury TMDL, May 2016 TMDL Implementation Update
On February 6, 2017, C-Span interviewed Luke Bailey and Kitty Monahan for a story about mining in San Jose. It was part of their 2017 Local Content Vehicles tour of San Jose, featuring the history and literary life of the community.
The Santa Clara County Newsbeat has an online article and video on the County Parks' PixInParks Challenge, which includes the Wood Road Trail at Almaden Quicksilver. (Still pictures were provided by Ron Horii.)

Pictures and Special Reports

View from Hidalgo Mine Trail

View of Almaden Reservoir from the Hidalgo Cemetery Trail

Powerpoint presentation (18 MB) created by Ron Horii, showing activities in all the Santa Clara County Parks.
Almaden Quicksilver County Park Van Tour 11/17/01
Pictures from Mike Boulland's and Art Boudreault's book signing at the Casa Grande on 7/12/06.

Self-running slideshows (Windows only):
- California Trail Day, north New Almaden Trail, 4/23/05 (14 MB)
- Wildflower Scavenger Hunt, Senador Mine Trail, 5/5/05 (21 MB)
- Volunteers Recognition Banquet, 4/6/06 (31 MB)
- Wildflower walk, Wood Road Trail, 4/30/06 (31 MB)
- GPS Class, Wood Road Trail to Mine Hill, 4/30/06 (31 MB)

Los Alamitos Creek/Guadalupe River Trail

Ron Horii's Outdoor Photography Gallery (includes Almaden Quicksilver)

Pictures from the Los Alamitos Creek Watershed Cleanup 5/19/07: Page 1: Preparation, Page 2: Cleanup 1, Page 3: Cleanup 2, Page 4: BBQ Lunch.
Pictures of wildflowers and park views, Spring 2008:

Part 1 Southside: Deep Gulch, Mine Hill, Wood Road Trails

Part 2 Northside: Senador, Guadalupe, Mine Hill, New Almaden Trails

Geocaching Class, Wood Road Trail, June 14, 2008
Ghost Tour, Santa Teresa and Almaden, 10/25/09

Geocaching Class, Wood Road Trail, Jan. 17, 2009

Pictures from the Healthy Trails Hike, Wood Road Trail, Almaden Quicksilver, 3/28/09

Kiwanis Ghost Tour of Santa Teresa Park and New Almaden, 10/17/09

Geocaching Class, Wood Road Trail, Jan. 16, 2010

Almaden Quicksilver HDR Pictures 2/27/10
Clean-up of Los Alamitos and Guadalupe Creek Watersheds, New Almaden to Guadalupe Dam 9/25/10

In September, 2011, Ron Horii had a display of park pictures at the Santa Teresa Library.
New Almaden and Randol Trails (Facebook Album), 12/28/11
Hike on the New Almaden, Buena Vista, Randol, Capehorn Pass, and Hacienda Trails 1/27/12
The Virl O. Norton Trail, the Easy Part, Almaden Quicksilver, 12/8/12 (Facebook album)
Hike on the Senador, New Almaden, Mine Hill Trails, 12/1/13 (Facebook album)
Post New Year's Hike, Almaden Quicksilver, 1/3/14 (Facebook album)
Wood Road Trail Hike, 2/14/15 (Facebook album)
Almaden Quicksilver National River Cleanup Day, 5/16/15 (Facebook album)
9/11 Service Day at the Casa Grande, Almaden Quicksilver, 9/11/15 (Facebook album)
Pierce Ranch and McAbee Road Entrance to Almaden Quicksilver, 10/25/15 (Facebook album)
Pierce Ridge Tour, 11/3/15 (Facebook album)
Quicksilver Holiday Boutique 12/5/15 (Facebook album)
Anza Expedition Hike, Almaden Quicksilver, 3/26/16 (Facebook album)
Almaden Quicksilver North Spring Hike, 4/6/16 (Facebook album)
V-O-Cal Trail Day, Almaden Quicksilver, 5/21/16 (Facebook album)
Play Like a Miner, Almaden Quicksilver, 6/18/16 (Facebook album)
Living History Day at the Casa Grande, 7/2/16 (Facebook album)
Stone-Wasserman Breakfast, Casa Grande 8/27/16 (Facebook album)
New Almaden Day Jump-In Parade, 9/10/16 (Facebook album)
New Almaden Day Carnival, 9/10/16 (Facebook album)
Quicksilver Senador Mine Site Restoration, 11/5/16 (Facebook album)
Pioneer Day, Almaden Quicksilver 10/8/16 (Facebook album version)
Almaden Quicksilver Holiday Boutique 11/19/16 (Facebook album)
Lichen Hike at Almaden Quicksilver, 1/28/17 (Facebook album)
Almaden Quicksilver Photo Gallery (Facebook album)
Living History Day, Casa Grande, 3/11/17 (Facebook album)
New Almaden Trail, Almaden Quicksilver, 4/25/17 (Facebook album)
Play Like a Miner, Casa Grande, 6/24/17 (Facebook album)
Almaden Quicksilver Calcine Roads Project, 8/7-8/17 (Facebook album)
Volunteer Recognition BBQ, Casa Grande, 8/12/17 (Facebook album)
New Almaden Ghost Tour, 10/29/17 (Facebook album)
Living History Day, Casa Grande, Almaden Quicksilver, 11/18/17 (Facebook album)
Almaden Quicksilver: Norton to Hacienda Trails, 1/7/18 (Facebook album)
Views of Rancho San Vicente from Almaden Quicksilver, 1/7/18 (Facebook album)
Almaden Quicksilver Plant Hike, 1/14/18 (Facebook album)
Almaden Quicksilver Calcine Roads Project 1/21/18 (Facebook album)
Living History Day, Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum, 2/11/18 (Facebook album)
Almaden Quicksilver, Northside Flowers and Views, 3/8/18 (Facebook album)
Almaden Quicksilver Hike: New Almaden to Hacienda, 4/8/18 (Facebook album)
Almaden Quicksilver Flowers and Plants, 4/8/18 (Facebook album)
Living History Day, Casa Grande, 5/6/18 (Facebook album)

2017 Almaden Quicksilver events

Living History Day, Casa Grande, 2/14/15, left to right: Mike Boulland, Mary Moran, Elaine Hill, Bridgett Orcutt, Doug Bergtholdt

See here for the County Parks' Latest Play Here Guide.

January 2018

Sunday, January 14, Plant Communities for Beginners, Almaden Quicksilver, 9:00am-3:00pm. Are you interested in learning more about our local plant communities? Join Authority Docent Steve and the California Native Plant Society for a walk up the English Cap Trail to Church Peak and back down via the Deep Gulch Trail. Expect to see scrub, chaparral, mixed evergreen forest, and riparian plant communities and learn to identify some of these plants with enthusiastic docents. The distance covered is 4 miles with 1000’ of elevation gain/loss and will be a strenuous hike. Please meet at the Hacienda Entrance to the park and bring water and a lunch. Rain will cancel. For details, link here.
Saturday, January 20, Quicksilver History Hike • Almaden Quicksilver • 9:00am-12:00pm. Explore what remains of the once-bustling mining operations in the hills above New Almaden on this 4-mile hike. Meet at the Wood Road entrance
off Hicks Road. Bring water and a snack. Questions? (408) 918-7770.
Saturday, January 27, Backyard Birding: The secret lives of the birds living among us, Casa Grande, 8:30am-9:30am. Have you ever been curious about the little brown birds in your bushes? Do you have bird feeders but don't know the names of the birds that visit them? Are you an avid bird watcher that wants to learn more about the lives of your subjects? What can we do to help our feathered friends? If any of these questions interest you, then come enjoy a peaceful morning walk around the beautiful backyard of Casa Grande or the serene trail of Bernal Ranch with an experienced naturalist. Bring warm clothes, binoculars if you have them (8X42 magnification is best), patience, a sense of curiosity. Heavy rain cancels. Call (408) 918-7775 for more information.

February 2018

Saturday, February 10, Backyard Birding: The secret lives of the birds living among us, Casa Grande, 8:30am-9:30am. See 1/27/18.
Sunday, February 11, Victorian Valentine Living History Day, Casa Grande/Quicksilver Mining Museum • 11:00am-3:00pm. Come visit the Casa Grande, once the magnificent home of New Almaden mine managers. Costumed docents will guide you through the historic home. Children can participate in valentine craft activities.Questions? (408) 918-7770

March 2018

Saturday, March 18, Quicksilver History Hike • Almaden Quicksilver • 9:00am-12:00pm. See January 20, 2018.

April 2018

Saturday, April 14, Wildflower Scavenger Hunt, Almaden Quicksilver, 12:00pm-3:00pm..Join the New Almaden Quicksilver County Park Association on a wildflower scavenger hunt through various stations along the Wood Road Trail. Meet in the Wood Rd. parking lot off of Hicks Rd. Reservations online or at (408) 355-2201.
Saturday, April 21, Quicksilver History Hike • Almaden Quicksilver • 9:00am-12:00pm. See January 20, 2018.

May 2018

Sunday, May 6, Living History Day, Casa Grande/Quicksilver Mining Museum • 11:00am-2:00pm. Experience life in a historic mining community. Participate in activities, play games, and learn about daily life in the 1890s at Casa Grande and the QuicksilverMuseum. History tours at 11:30am and 1:00pm. Fun for the whole family. Questions? (408) 918-7770.
Wednesday, May 9, Connect with Nature • Almaden Quicksilver • 6:00pm-7:00pm. Nature has an incredible way of maintaining balance and harmony. Come experience a connection with nature and leave with a better understanding of
yourself. $15 per person. Meet at the Wood Road parking lot with comfortable clothes and shoes. Reservations online or (408) 355-2201.
Sunday, May 20, Saturday, May 26, Sunday, May 27. Take A Ride With A Ranger • Almaden Quicksilver • 10:00am-1:00pm
Mountain biking can be your ticket to adventure and discovery. Learn bike handling skills and history of the park. Meet at the Hacienda parking lot. Questions? (408) 268-3883.
Saturday, May 26, Birding Basics • Casa Grande/Quicksilver Mining Museum • 9:00am - 9:45am. Come out and learn the basics of observing and identifying local birds with an experienced bird watcher and naturalist! Meet in front of the Casa Grande with binoculars if you have them. Questions? (408) 918-7775.

June 2018

Sunday, June 10, Mountain Lions & Bobcats • Almaden Quicksilver • 9:00am-11:00am. Stop by a parks booth for information about these local wild cats who share the environment with us. Meet at the Hacienda parking lot off Almaden Rd. Questions? (408) 918-7772.
Wednesday, June 13, Wednesday, June 20. Yoga Hike Meditate • Almaden Quicksilver • 6:00pm-7:00pm. Refresh your mind, body, and spirit with Mother Nature. Learn simple and effective methods for self-healing and energy enhancement by practicing gentle postures, breathing, and mind intentions. $15 per person. Meet at Wood Rd. parking lot. Reservations online or (408) 355-2201.
Saturday, June 16, Saturday, August 18, Quicksilver History Hike • Almaden Quicksilver • 9:00am-12:00pm. Explore what remains of the once-bustling mining operations in the hills above New Almaden on this 4-mile hike leaving from the Wood Roadparking lot off Hicks Rd. Questions? (408) 918-7770.
Saturday, June 23, Hike the Magnificent Seven! • Almaden Quicksilver • 10:00am-1:30pm. Work towards completing the #PixInParks challenge with a guided hike on one of our magnificent trails. Meet at the Wood Road parking lot with water and snacks. Find your destination, take a photo, and enjoy spectacular views. Questions? (408) 355-2240.
Sunday June 24, Saturday, Birding Basics • Casa Grande/Quicksilver Mining Museum • 9:00am - 9:45am. See May 26, 2018 above.

July 2018

Saturday, July 21, 11:00am-3:00pm, Play Like a Miner, Casa Grande/Quicksilver Mining Museum, 21350 Almaden Road, San Jose. Join in for a fun day of learning what it was like to be a miner long ago. There will be games, demonstrations and crafts as well as an opportunity to try your hand at panning for gold and precious gems.A fun event for the whole family.
Saturday, July 28, Birding Basics • Casa Grande/Quicksilver Mining Museum • 9:00am - 9:45am. See May 26, 2018 above.

August 2018

Sunday, August 12, Explore A Ranger’s Truck • Almaden Quicksilver • 3:00pm-4:00pm. Discover critical resources that Park Ranger’s provide while you explore and use equipment they carry in patrol trucks. Drop in at the Mockingbird Hillparking lot. Questions? (408) 268-3883.
Saturday, August 25, Birding Basics • Casa Grande/Quicksilver Mining Museum • 9:00am - 9:45am. See May 26, 2018 above.

2018 Events at Other Parks

From the Rancho San Vicente Hike, 3/28/15

These events are mostly at neighboring parks, like Santa Teresa, Calero, and Hellyer. See here for Santa Clara Open Space Authority events.

January 2018

Friday, January 5, Backyard Birding: The secret lives of the birds living among us, Bernal Ranch House, Santa Teresa Park, 8:30am-9:30am. Have you ever been curious about the little brown birds in your bushes? Do you have bird feeders but don't know the names of the birds that visit them? Are you an avid bird watcher that wants to learn more about the lives of your subjects? What can we do to help our feathered friends? If any of these questions interest you, then come enjoy a peaceful morning walk around the beautiful backyard of Casa Grande or the serene trail of Bernal Ranch with an experienced naturalist. Bring warm clothes, binoculars if you have them (8X42 magnification is best), patience, a sense of curiosity. Heavy rain cancels. Call (408) 918-7775 for more information.
Saturday, January 13, 2018, Martin Luther King Day of Service-Trails, Santa Teresa County Park Corral Parking Lot, 9:00am-1:00pm. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. lived his life serving others. Following his example, millions of Americans serve on Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service. On this special day volunteers will be working with park staff to accomplish a variety of park beautification projects. Tools, gloves, and necessary training will be provided. Please wear closed toes shoes, long pants, a jacket, and bring a reusable water bottle. Event occurs rain or shine! Families are welcome! A parent or guardian over the age of 18 is required to accompany volunteers under the age of 15 for the duration of the event.
Saturday, January 13, 2018, The Secret Life of Slime Molds, Rancho Canada del Oro Open Space Preserve, 10:00am-12:00pm. In the Winter, all of Rancho Cañada del Oro’s mysterious creatures and plants who need wet environments come to life. Come explore one of the most mysterious of all, slime molds. Join Authority Docent Cait and the Author Carrie Niblett for a morning in the meadow, discovering a remarkable beautiful organism you may have never noticed before. This is a slow-paced exploration and engaging educational experience for anyone who is inquisitive and curious. Heavy rain will cancel.
Saturday, January 13, 2018, Starry Nights, Rancho Canada del Oro Open Space Preserve, 7:00pm-9:00pm. Join the Open Space Authority in partnership with the San Jose Astronomical Association (SJAA) for an evening out under that stars. No need to bring your own telescope, the SJAA will provide telescopes along with friendly astronomy docents who are eager to share the view. The gates will be closed at 8:00 pm to allow for better, undisturbed viewing, please arrive before then. Please dress warm, bring water to drink, and your sense of wonder for the night sky. Space is limited and registration is required.
Saturday, January 20, 2018, Anza Expedition Hike, Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve, 10:00am-12:00pm. Join the Open Space Authority and National Parks for a history walk along the Arrowhead Trail in Coyote, a certified interpretive site for the Juan Bautista de Anza Expedition. As you hike this 4-mile trail, you will learn all about the Anza Expedition and the experience of those families. Please bring your own water and a snack for the trail. Heavy rain will cancel.
Saturday, January 27, 2018, Headwaters to the Bay – an Educational Family Hike, Sierra Vista Open Space Preserve, 9:30am-11:30am. Enjoy a gentle, fun, and engaging family-friendly hike along the easy 1.2-mile Aquila Loop Trail. We’ll talk about rain, aquatic homes for wildlife, and the larger wildlife that depend on clean water and our amazing watersheds to survive.

February 2018

Friday, February 2, Backyard Birding: The secret lives of the birds living among us, Bernal Ranch House, Santa Teresa Park, 8:30am-9:30am. See 1/5/18 above.
Saturday, February 3, 2018. Become an Open Space Docent!, 10:00am-4:00pm.Do you love sharing nature with people? Do you love being outdoors and walking in nature? If you have the time, we have the preserves! Come to our beginner docent training to learn about the Open Space Authority's volunteer opportunities. No experience is neccessary. Bring your enthusiam and curiosity and we will teach you the rest! Please bring a bag lunch with you and rsvp here. Volunteers must be 18 and older to volunteer on their own. Youth volunteers over 14 may join, but a parent or guardian over 18 must be present.

March 2018

The Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority has numerous hikes scheduled to Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve, which is not open to the public yet. Access is only through guided hikes, currently scheduled in March and April. See their Events page for details.
Sunday 3/25/18: “Hike the Magnificent Seven! Santa Teresa” 10am to 1pm. Join the Friends of Santa Teresa Park for a moderate 2.5-mile #PixInParks hike on the Stile Ranch, Mine, and Fortini Trails. View spectacular wildflower displays, take in the gorgeous views, and hear talks about the rich history of the area. There will be nature and history exhibits and activities at the trailhead. Please bring snack, sunscreen, water and wear comfortable shoes. Meet at the Stile Ranch Trailhead on San Vicente Avenue, at the end of Fortini Road, off McKean Road.
Saturday 3/31/18: Outdoor Photography and Wildflower Walk, 10 am - 1 pm. Join a docent for an outdoor photography class and slide show in the barn at the historic Bernal Ranch followed by a moderate, but easy-paced hike up the Joice Trail to take pictures of the colorful spring wildflower displays. Meet at the Barn with your camera or smartphone. Register here.

April 2018

Saturday, April 7, Chitactac Family Day, Chitactac Adams • Check website calendar for time. Discover the heritage of the people who once lived at this ancient village site along Uvas Creek. Learn to make traditional crafts and participatein unique activities and demonstrations.
Sunday, April 8, Cougar Country, Calero County Park, 10:00am-2:00pm. Come learn about the habits and life cycle of a mountain lion. Explore how humans and wildlife interact and share our park lands. Meet at the Rancho San Vicente parking lot on McKean Rd. Questions? (408) 535-4070.
Saturday 4/21/18: Coyote Peak Vistas Hike: 2 pm - 4 pm. Join the Friends of Santa Teresa Park on a moderate 2-mile hike to Coyote Peak starting from the Pueblo Day Use Area. Look at the wildflowers and trees along the way. At the top, take in panoramic views of the Bay Area and Coyote Valley. Please bring snack, sunscreen, water and wear comfortable shoes. Register here.
Saturday, 4/28/18: 23rd annual Volunteer Recognition event, 12:00pm-2:30pm. (Invitation-only, for County Parks volunteers.) Hellyer County Park’s Buena Vista Group Area.

May 2018

Saturday, May 5, Spring Celebration • Martial Cottle • 10:00am-3:00pm. Come celebrate urban agriculture, food, and spring planting at this fun day on the ranch! Healthy food, fresh produce and native plants for sale, arts and crafts, live music and much more. Volunteers needed, check parkhere.org for details. Questions? (408) 535-4060. See here for more details.
Wednesday, May 9, Geocaching in the Park • Anderson Lake • 11:00am-1:00pm. Come explore hidden treasures in the park. Hike on trails above the lake to locate geocaches using GPS technology. Bring a hand-held GPS or download the app to your cellphone. Optional to bring/leave/exchange anything in the caches. Meet in the parking lot at top of the dam. Questions? (408) 918-7985.
Saturday, May 12; Sunday, May 20; Saturday, May 26; Saturday, July 28; Saturday, August 4; Saturday, August 18. What’s “Shaking” in Parks? • Santa Teresa • 9:00am-12:00pm. Trek to the highest peak in the park to view fantastic vistas and explore local geology formations. Meet in the 2nd parking lot with hiking shoes, layered clothing, and water. Questions? (408) 225-0225.
Saturday, May 19, Saturday, July 7, Hike the Magnificent Seven! • Calero • 10:00am-1:00pm. Work towards completing the #PixInParks challenge with a guided hike on one of our magnificent trails. Meet in the parking lot by Ranger Office with water and snacks. Find your destination, take a photo, and enjoy spectacular views. Questions? (408) 355-2240.
Sunday, May 27; Saturday, June 23; Saturday, August 18. In the Park After Dark Movie Night • Santa Teresa • 8:30pm-11:30pm. Saturday, August 25, 8:00pm-11:00pm. Saturday, September 1, 7:30pm-10:30pm. Enjoy a night under the stars with family and friends. Come early to learn about parks and wildlife before the FREE family-friendly movie. Meet at the Pueblo Group Area with a blanket or low-back chair and a flashlight. Questions? (408) 225-0225.

June 2018

Monday, June 4, The Trails and You: Shared Use and Safety • Calero • 10:00am-12:00pm. Be safe and enjoy shared park trails. Learn about regulations and tips to protect you and park resources. This is a drop-in event at the parking lot by the Calero Park office. Questions? (408) 268-3883.
Saturday, June 16, Hellyer Amazing Race • Hellyer • 10:00am-1:00pm. Anyone can participate in this fun outdoor challenge! Register with your team to compete for great prizes by completing fun challenges, games, and learning outdoor skills along the way! Preregistration required, space is limited. More info at parkhere.org or (408) 355-2255.
Saturday, June 16. In the Park After Dark Campout • Santa Teresa • 7:00pm-8:00am. Begin with a feature-length movie under the night sky, followed by a campfire and s’mores, then a second feature-length movie. Bring camping supplies for an overnight trip: tent, bedding, food, warm clothes, flashlight. Cost is $15/camping family and $6/vehicle. Restrooms available. No electricity or showers provided. Space is limited. Reservations online or (408) 535-4060.
Saturday, June 23, Chitactac Family Day • Chitactac Adams • 1:00pm-4:00pm. Celebrate the Amah Mutsun culture and discover the heritage of people who once lived at this ancient village site. Participate in hands-on activities, play traditional games, and make unique crafts while learning about native plants and wildlife. This event is free and appropriate for families and all ages. Questions? (408) 918-7770.
Friday, June 29; Saturday, June 30; Saturday, July 7; Friday, July 13; Saturday, July 21; Friday, August 3; Friday, August 10; Friday, August 17. In the Park After Dark Movie Night • Hellyer • 8:30pm-11:30pm. Enjoy a night under the stars with family and friends. Come early to learn about parks and wildlife before the FREE family-friendly movie. Meet at the Cottonwood Lake lawn with a blanket or low-back chair and a flashlight. Questions? (408) 225-0225.
Saturday, June 30, Discover the Park Through Nature Journaling. Martial Cottle • 9:00am-11:00am. Learn how to nature journal while enjoying the beauty of your surroundings.Meet at the Visitor Center. No dogs please. Reservations (408) 535-4052.

July 2018

Friday, July 20, Geocaching in the Park • Anderson Lake • 10:00am-12:00pm. Come explore hidden treasures in the park. Hike on trails above the lake to locate geocaches using GPS technology. Bring a hand-held GPS or download the app to your cellphone. Optional to bring/leave/exchange anything in the caches.Meet in the parking lot at top of the dam. Questions? (408) 918-7985.
Saturday, July 21, Park Partners Open House • Martial Cottle • 9:00am-12:00pm. Explore the gardens, attend a workshop, or tour the Master Gardener Parcel.Learn from youth 4-H members about their livestock animals. Purchase and learn to plant native and drought-tolerant trees and shrubs or attend an Edible & Native Plant talk from Our City Forest. Partner parcels are located near Chynoweth Ave. Questions? (408) 535-4060.
Saturday, July 21, When Nature Bites Back • Hellyer • 10:00am-12:00pm. The wild world of parks has numerous wonders to explore, but in the event of an accident are you prepared? Discover nature and recreation while being trained in hands-only CPR and basic first aid. All practice equipment is provided.Meet at the Park Office. Reservations online or (408) 355-2201.
Saturday, July 28. A Taste of Archery • Santa Teresa • 8:00am-10:00am, 10:30am-12:30pm. Join the Black Mountain Bowmen to learn how to shoot a compound or recurve bow, fletch arrows, and make a bow string. Ages 6 and up with parent. $5 fee. A mandatory safety class and equipment are provided by Predator’s Archery. Bring water, snacks, and sun protection. Reservations online or (408) 355-2201.

August 2018

Saturday, August 4; Saturday, August 11; Saturday, August 18; Saturday, August 25; Fishing Program for Kids • Hellyer • 9:00am-11:30am. Join a Park Ranger to learn about local watersheds, fisheries, and secrets to catching bass. Open to ages 10-13. Fishing gear provided. Meet at the Visitor Center with sun protection. Reservations (408) 225-0225.
Sunday, August 5, Take a Hike on the Wild Side • Calero • 9:00am-12:00pm. Hike in the habitat of two wild felines-mountain lions and bobcats.Discover these cats’ unique characteristics while gaining awareness and appreciation for wildlife that call parks home. Meet in parking lot by the park office with water, good hiking shoes, and sun protection. Questions? (408) 918-7772.
Saturday, August 11, Meteor Shower: The Best HD Viewing is Free. Martial Cottle • 10:00pm-12:00am. Join us for Perseids meteor shower. Begin the evening with a discussion of best ways to view objects in the night sky. Meet on the big lawn with warm clothes, flashlights, and a telescope or binoculars. Questions? (408) 535-4060.
Saturday, August 18, Master Gardener and 4-H Open House • Martial Cottle • 9:00am-12:00pm. Explore the gardens, attend a workshop, or tour the Master Gardener parcel. Workshops and class information at http://mgsantaclara.ucanr.edu/. Stop by the 4-H parcel to learn from youth members about the livestock animals they raise here. Partner parcels are located near Chynoweth Ave.Questions? (408) 535-4060.

See here for past events at Almaden Quicksilver and other parks.

For more information, contact our webmaster, Ron Horii. Updated 6/13/18.