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.

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.

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):

See the pictures from Pioneer Day in Almaden Quicksilver's Spanishtown, Saturday October 14, 2006.
Pictures from Pioneer Day, October 13, 2007, New Almaden Community Center, Santa Isabel Shafthouse Dedication.
Almaden Times Weekly article on Pioneer Day, 10/13/07
Pictures from Pioneer Day 10/11/08, Wood Road
Pioneer Day, English Camp Map House, 10/10/09
Almaden Times Weekly article on Pioneer Day, 10/10/09
Pioneer Day: Reopening of the Casa Grande, 11/13/10
Pioneer Day: Hacienda Mining Display Outdoor Museum, 10/8/11
Pioneer Day, Almaden Quicksilver 10/13/12, Incline Railroad Sign Dedication
Pioneer Day, Almaden Quicksilver 10/12/13, Hacienda Mining Display Outdoor Museum and Cornish Miners
Pioneer Day, Rossi Retort Dedication at the Rotary Furnace Site, Spanishtown, 10/11/14
Pioneer Day, Dedication of the Hacienda Bell Tower, 10/10/15 (Facebook album version)
Pioneer Day, Casa Grande Pathway and Memorial Bench Dedication, October 8, 2016 (Facebook album version)

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.

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)
Volunteer Recognition BBQ, Casa Grande, 8/12/17 (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' Spring-Summer 2017 Play Here Guide.

March 2017:

Saturday, March 11, 2017, Living History Day, 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM. Visit the Casa Grande, once the magnificent home of New Almaden mine managers. Costumed docents and staff will guide you through Victorian period rooms and museum exhibits. Children may participate in a seasonal craft activity to take home. Questions? (408) 918-7770.

April 2017:

Thursday, April 6 and Saturday, April 8, 2017, Storytime With a Ranger, Casa Grande/Quicksilver Mining Museum, 10 am. Ages 1 to 92, all interested are welcome to come. An hour or so of songs and stories led by a park ranger. Come learn some "egg-citing" facts and see different animal eggs.
Saturday, April 8, 2017, Wildflower Scavenger Hunt,12:00 PM - 03:00 PM. Join Friends of the New Almaden Quicksilver County Park Association on a wildflower scavenger hunt through various stations along the Wood Road Trail. Meet at the Wood Road Parking lot. Register online or call (408) 355-2201.
Saturday, April 22, 2017, Connect with Nature Through Meditation, 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM. Almaden Quicksilver. Nature has an incredible way of maintaining balance and harmony. In this class offered by Morning Crane Healing Arts Center you will experience first-hand a connection with nature and leave with a better understanding of yourself and your connection to the whole. Meet at the Wood Road parking lot with comfortable clothes and shoes.

May 2017:

Wednesday, May 10, 2017, Connect with Nature Through Meditation, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM. See April 22, 2017.
Saturday, May 13, 2017, Tai Chi, 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM, Casa Grande. Learn the oldest and most powerful type of Tai Chi – Lao Jia. Develop greater physical strength, balance and coordination. These slow gentle movements are perfect for all ages and physical abilities. Meet on the back lawn wearing comfortable clothes. $15 per person. Reservations online or (408) 355-2201.
Saturday, May 27, 2017, Cougar Country, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, Almaden Quicksilver Mockingbird Hill entrance. Learn about mountain lions that call County Parks their home. Understand what makes them important to the local environment and how to keep you and your family safe. Meet at the Mockingbird Hill entrance. Questions? (408) 268-3883.

June 2017:

Sunday, June 4, 2017, History of Almaden Air Force Station, 1:00 PM - 03:00 PM, Casa Grande. Learn about the history of this fascinating site. See key artifacts and amazing historic photos of the radar station when it was in operation between 1958 and 1980. Presented by Basim Jaber (Founder of the USAF 682nd Radar Squadron Veterans Association). Reservations by email info@almadenafs.org or (408) 533-8107.
Saturday, June 10, 2017, Cougar Country, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, Almaden Quicksilver Mockingbird Hill entrance. See May 27, 2017.
Saturday, June 24, 2017, Play Like a Miner, 11:00 AM - 03:00 PM, Casa Grande. 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. Questions? (408) 918-7770.
Saturday, June 24, 2017, What's in a Park Ranger's Truck?, 6:00 PM - 07:30 PM, Almaden Quicksilver Mockingbird Hill park entrance. Have you ever wanted to see the inside of a Park Ranger's truck? This is your chance to interact with a variety of equipment used for search and rescue, firefighting and lifesaving duties. Meet at the Mockingbird Hill entrance. Questions? (408) 268-5240.
Sunday, June 25, 2017, Avoid the Rash - Poison Oak, 6:00 PM - 07:30 PM, Almaden Quicksilver Mockingbird Hill park entrance. It's not about the rash! Discover how the poison oak plant has benefited both natural and human communities throughout history. Wear long sleeves, pants and closed toe shoes. Meet at the Mockingbird Hill entrance. Questions? 268-5240.

July 2017

Saturday, July 22, History Van Tour, Casa Grande/Quicksilver Mining Museum, 9:30am-2pm. Step back in time and experience what life was like back in the mining heyday. Ride by van to various historic sites and enjoy your brown-bag lunch in the park. $15 per person. Children must be at least 8 years old and 4’ 9” tall. Meet at the Casa Grande/Quicksilver Mining Museum with a bag lunch. Reservations online or (408) 355-2201

August 2017

Sunday, August 6, History of Almaden Air Force Station, Casa Grande/Quicksilver Mining Museum, 1pm-3pm. See June 4, 2017.
Saturday, August 12, County Parks' Volunteer Recognition luncheon, 12-2:30 at the Casa Grande.
Saturday, August 19, History Van Tour, Casa Grande/Quicksilver Mining Museum, 9:30am-2pm. See July 22, 2017.

September 2017

Saturday, September 9, New Almaden Day Jump-In Parade and carnival, 11:00am. Come to the New Almaden Community Clubhouse on Bertram Road or jump-in anywhere along the route. Equestrians park at the Hacienda Entrance to Almaden Quicksilver and join the front of the parade at the Community Club by 10:45am. Cars, floats, etc., meet at the Community Club by 10:45am. After the parade, there will be ribbons for the participants and awards for Best of Show at the Comunity Club. There will be carnival games, drinks, music, raffle prizes, and a barbecue lunch at the Community Club.

October 2017

Satuday, October 14, Pioneer Day, Hacienda Outdoor Museum, 11:00am.
Sunday, October 22, 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

November 2017

Saturday, November 18, Holiday 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, all decorated for the holidays. Costumed docents will guide you through the historic home. Children can participate in holiday craft activities.Questions? (408) 918-7770

December 2017

Saturday, December 16, Quicksilver History Hike • Almaden Quicksilver • 9:00am-12:00pm. See October 22, 2017.

January 2018

Saturday, January 20, Quicksilver History Hike • Almaden Quicksilver • 9:00am-12:00pm. See October 22, 2017.

February 2018

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 October 22, 2017.

April 2018

Saturday, April 21, Quicksilver History Hike • Almaden Quicksilver • 9:00am-12:00pm. See October 22, 2017.

2017 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:

January 2017:

Saturday, January 14, 2017, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM. MLK Trail Day, Santa Teresa Park. Meet at Corral Parking Lot. Join Santa Clara County Parks staff and volunteers for a Trail Day to assist improving our trails and keeping them maintained through the winter. Come spend the day outside volunteering at Santa Teresa County Park. Please wear closed toed shoes, long pants, bring a jacket and a reusable water bottle. Tools, gloves and beautiful scenery provided! Event takes place rain or shine. Event open to Volunteers age 14 years and older. Volunteers 14 & 15 years old require adult supervision. Those16 & 17 years of age require a signed waiver by a parent or guardian. To register as a volunteer for the event please contact the Volunteer Program at volunteer@prk.sccgov.org or (408)918-4930.

February 2017:

Saturday, Februrary 25, 2017, Lichen: A Closer Look, 9:00 AM - 1:30 PM, Santa Teresa Park. Enjoy a moderate 2.8-mile loop hike to discover numerous brightly colored lichen varieties that thrive in serpentine grasslands and learn ways these organisms benefit both wildlife and the environment. Meet at the Stile entrance off Fortini Road. Questions? (408) 918-7770.

March 2017:

Saturday, March 18, 2017, Native Plant Discovery Walk 9:00 AM - 1:30 PM, Calero County Park. Enjoy a moderate 3-mile hike to enjoy early spring wildflowers that thrive in the park’s serpentine grasslands. Along the way, observe a variety of endangered species found only in this unique environment. Meet at the Calero Park entrance (south of reservoir) off McKean Rd. Group will caravan to the Rancho San Vicente park entrance from there. Questions (408) 918-7770.

April 2017:

Sunday, April 9, 2017, Spring Wildflowers Nature Walk, 9:00 AM - 1:30 PM, Calero County Park. Take a moderate 3-mile hike to enjoy spring wildflowers that thrive in the park’s serpentine grasslands. Along the way, observe a variety of endangered species found only in this unique environment. Meet at the Calero Park entrance (south of reservoir) off McKean Rd. Group will caravan to the Rancho San Vicente park entrance from there. Questions (408) 918-7770.

May 2017:

Saturday, May 6, 2017, A Taste of the Valley of Heart's Delight, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Martial Cottle Park. Come celebrate urban agriculture, food and spring planting time at this fun day on the ranch! Family friendly activities, healthy food and fresh produce for sale, arts and crafts, live music and much more. Volunteers needed, check parkhere.org for details. Questions? (408) 535-4060.
Saturday, May 13, 2017, Herpetology Science and Movie Night, 7:30 PM - 10:30 PM, Santa Teresa County Park. Explore the science of amphibians and reptiles followed by a movie at the ranch at this fun family night for all ages and abilities. Meet at the Bernal Ranch barn. Reservations (408) 226-5453.
Saturday, May 13, May 20, Hula Hoop!, Martial Cottle, 10:30am-11:30am. Learn a new way to get some exercise, play and have FUN! Move with a hoop around your waist, feet and arms. All ages and experience levels welcome. Hoops provided for free or available for purchase. Meet at the visitor center. Questions? (408) 535-4060.
Saturday, May 20, 2017, When Nature Bites Back, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Hellyer. The wild world 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 by Park Rangers. All practice equipment is provided. Meet at the visitor center. Reservations online or (408) 355-2201.
Sunday, May 21, 2017, Hike the Magnificent Seven! 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Calero. Complete the #PixInParks challenge with a guided hike on one of our magnificent trails! This month’s hike is the #BaldPeak Trail. Find your photographic destination and see some gorgeous views of Santa Clara Valley. Meet at the parking lot on Casa Loma Rd. No dogs. Questions? (408) 355-2240.

June 2017:

Saturday, June 3, 2017, Healthy Parks, Healthy People Walk, Martial Cottle, 10am-12pm. Join park staff for a walking tour to learn about the ranch’s history and organic farming. Spend time afterward playing at the Discovery Farm or visiting the Farm Stand. Meet at the Visitor Center. Questions? (408) 355-2240
Saturday, June 3, 2017, dedication and tour of the Lisa Killough Trail at the Rancho San Vicente addition to Calero County Park.
Friday, June 9, 2017, Moon Gazing, 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Motorcycle County Park. Explore the seas, mountains and craters of our nearest astronomical neighbor with a Park Ranger and a telescope. Questions? (408) 226-5223.
Saturday, June 10, 2017, Tai Chi, 8:30 AM - 9:30 AM, Bernal-Gulnac-Joice Ranch, Santa Teresa Park. Learn the oldest and most powerful type of Tai Chi – Lao Jia. Develop greater physical strength, balance and coordination. These slow gentle movements are perfect for all ages and physical abilities. Wear comfortable clothes. $15 per person. Reservations online or (408) 355-2201.
Saturday, June 10, June 17, 2017, Hula Hoop, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM, Martial Cottle Park. See May 13, 2017.
Saturday, June 10, 2017, Carnivorous Plant Science and Movie Night 7:30 PM - 10:30 PM, Bernal-Gulnac-Joice Ranch, Santa Teresa Park. Explore the science of carnivorous plants followed by a movie at the ranch at this fun family night for all ages and abilities. Meet at the Bernal Ranch barn. Reservations (408) 226-5453.
Saturday, June 10, 2017, In the Park After Dark Movie Night, 8:00 PM - 10:30 PM, Martial Cottle Park. Watch a family-friendly FREE feature movie under the stars. Come early and join an Open Space Authority Interpreter to learn and play old past time activities. Meet on lawn near Parking Lot A with a flashlight and low lawn chair or blanket. No dogs please. Questions? (408) 535-4060.
Sunday, June 11, 2017, Youth Fishing Event, 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Ed Levin - Sandy Wool Lake. Join South Bay Fishing in the City partners for a free learn-to-fish event for children ages 5-15. Expert instruction and all equipment provided. On-site registration 8-10am for first 150 kids. Parental supervision required. Meet at Sandy Wool Lake. Questions? (408) 355-2240.
Saturday, June 17, 2017, Hellyer Amazing Race, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Hellyer. Anyone can participate in this fun family outdoor challenge! Register with your team to compete for great prizes by completing challenges and games as you learn some cool skills along the way! Registration required, space is limited. More info at parkhere.org or (408) 355-2255.
Saturday, June 17, 2017, Container Gardening, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Martial Cottle. Live in a condo or apartment? Learn from certified Master Gardeners how to grow veggies and ornamental plants in containers. You may be surprised that you can grow all the makings of a salad in just a few containers. Meet at the Master Gardener parcel to learn how! Questions? (408) 282-3105.
Wednesdays June 21, June 28, 2017, A Taste of Water Skiing,12:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Coyote Creek Parkway. Learn how to water ski with the Santa Clara County Water Ski Club. Cost is $10 per person. All equipment, lessons and other resources will be provided. It's a great time for ages 8-17! Bring your bathing suit, towel, sunscreen, water and snacks and be prepared to get WET! Reservations online or (408) 355-2201.

July 2017:

Saturday, July 1, 2017, Healthy Parks, Healthy People Walk, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Martial Cottle Park. See June 3, 2017.
Saturday, July 1, 2017, Hula Hoop, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM, Martial Cottle Park. See May 13, 2017.
Saturday, July 8, 2017, A Taste of Archery, 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Santa Teresa Park Archery Range. 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 participation fee. A mandatory safety class and equipment are provided by Predator's Archery. Meet at the archery range on Avenida Espana Drive. Choose from the 8-10am or 10-12pm class. Reservations online or (408) 355-2201.
Saturday, July 8, In the Park After Dark Movie Night, Martial Cottle, 8pm-10:30pm. Watch a family-friendly FREE feature movie under the stars. Come early and join an Open Space Authority Interpreter to learn and play old past time activities. Meet on lawn near Parking Lot A with a flashlight and low lawn chair or blanket. No dogs please. Questions? (408) 535-4060
Sunday, July 9, Full Moon Owl Hike, Martial Cottle, 8pm-10pm. Come learn about the night time predators that soar the skies. The park is home to a variety of owl species and we will head out on a hike to find them. Meet at the visitor center with layered clothes. Questions? (408) 535-4060
Thursday, July 13, Friday July 14, Bats Over Calero, Calero, 6pm-9:30pm. Join Park Rangers for a batty presentation followed by a van ride into the heart of the park to the Bat Inn. View thousands of bats as they emerge from a good day’s sleep. $15 per person. Bring a light source, folding chair or mat to sit on, bug repellent, sturdy shoes and long pants. Flash photography not allowed. Reservations online or (408) 355-2201
Friday July 14, In the Park after Dark Movie Night, Hellyer, 8:30pm-11pm. Enjoy a night under the stars with family and friends. Come early to learn about your local County Parks and watch a FREE family-fiendly movie on a big screen. Meet at the Cottonwood lawn with a flashlight, lawn chair or and blanket.
Saturday, July 15, Building Raised Beds Workshop, Martial Cottle, 9:30am-12pm. Learn about the benefits of raised beds and options for building them at home. Stay awhile and build a raised bed under the supervision of Master Gardeners. Meet at the Master Gardener parcel with gloves, sun protection and refillable water container. Questions? (408) 282-3015 Questions? (408) 225-0225
Saturday, July 15, In the Park After Dark Movie Night, Coyote Creek Parkway/Parkway Lakes, 8pm-11pm. Enjoy a night under the stars with family and friends. Watch a short film about the County Park system followed by a FREE showing of LEGO BATMAN on a giant blow up screen. Enter the parkway at Metcalf Rd. Bring a flashlight and low lawn chair or blanket. Questions? (408) 226-5223

August 2017

Saturday, August 5, Healthy Parks, Healthy People Walk, Martial Cottle, 10am-12pm. See June 3, 2017.
Saturday, August 5, Drip Irrigation Workshop, Martial Cottle, 9:30am-12pm. Learn about the benefits of drip irrigation and how to design and install a system at home. Practice by helping to install drip irrigation in a raised bed under the supervision of Master Gardeners. Meet at the Master Gardeners parcel with gloves, sun protection and refillable water container. Questions? (408) 282-3105
Saturday, August 5, Family Fandango, Santa Teresa/Bernal Ranch, 5pm-8pm. Celebrate the history of early California and its ties to the Anza Expedition and the Bernal family. The evening’s focus is family fun through song, dance, demonstrations and activities that highlight the many contributions of our early communities. Location is Camino Verde at Manila Drive in San Jose. Questions? (408) 226-5453
Wednesday, August 9, A Taste of Water Skiing, Coyote Creek Parkway, 12pm-4pm. See June 21, 2017.
Saturday, August 12, 26, Hula Hoop! Martial Cottle, 10:30am-11:30am. See May 13, 2017.
Saturday, August 19, When Nature Bites Back, Hellyer, 10am-12pm. The wild world 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 by Park Rangers. All practice equipment is provided. Meet at the visitor center. Reservations online or (408) 355-2201
Saturday, August 19, 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 your local County Parks and watch a FREE family-friendly movie on a big screen. Meet on the Cottonwood lawn with flashlight, lawn chair or blanket. Questions? (408) 225-0225
Saturday, August 26, A Taste of Archery, Santa Teresa, 8am-10am & 10am-12pm. See July 8, 2017.
Saturday, August 26, Compost Education Workshop, Martial Cottle, 10am-12pm. Join Master Composters for a workshop to learn about the magic of decomposition and how to compost at home. Meet at the Master Composter parcel with sun protection and water bottle. Questions? (408) 535-4060

September 2017

Saturday, September 9, Chitactac-Adams Family Day, Chitactac-Adams County Park, 10am-2pm. Discover the heritage of the people who once lived at this ancient village site along Uvas Creek. Learn to make traditional crafts and participate in unique activities and demonstrations. Questions? (408) 918-7770.
Sunday, September 17, grand opening of Mt. Umunhum, Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve. The summit and trails will open to the public on Monday, September 18.
Friday September 22, 2017 at 12:30-1:30 pm. Ron Horii will be giving a lunchtime brownbag slideshow presentation on outdoor and nature photography at the Open Space Authority of Santa Clara Valley's headquarters at 33 Las Colinas Lane, San Jose. You can register here.
Saturday, September 30, Introduction to Outdoor Photography, 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM, Bernal-Gulnac-Joice Ranch (Manila Drive). Join docent Ron Horii for a FREE outdoor photography workshop. Learn how to choose and use a camera, how to take better outdoor pictures and about photo composition. Workshop begins with an indoor slideshow, followed by demonstrations and a walk around the historic area to take pictures. Meet at the ranch house with your camera. Register online or call (408) 355-2201.

October 2017

Saturday, October 7, Harvest Festival • Martial Cottle • 10:00am-3:00pm. Come celebrate the legacy and significance of your valley’s rich agricultural heritage at this fun day on the farm! Family friendly activities, healthy food and fresh produce for sale, music and much more. Volunteers needed,check parkhere.org for details. Questions? (408) 535-4060
Sunday, October 8, Day on the Bay • Alviso Marina • 10:00am-3:00pm. This fun-filled festival along the South Bay shores of Alviso features a health resource fair and festive celebration of our diverse cultures. Free activities include pumpkins for kids, music, entertainment, kayak rides, food, and a community bike ride.Questions? (408) 299-5030
Saturday, October 14, 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? Explore nature and recreation at the Visitor Center while being trained in hands-only CPR and basic first aid by Park Rangers. All practice equipment is provided; space is limited.Reservations online or at (408) 355-2201

April 2018 (Preview)

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.

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

For more information, contact our webmaster, Ron Horii. Updated 9/12/17.