2.5-mile guided Geology walk, Henry W. Coe State Park, Coe Ranch Visitor Center

Come join us on a guided geologic and geographic tour of the ancient sea floor that is now the area around the Coe Ranch Visitor Center. We will walk a 2.5-mile loop where we'll see mainly sandstone and chert -- marine sedimentary rocks that started out as continental material (sandstone), or as tiny plankton far out in an equatorial sea (chert), and have been pushed around and up due to plate tectonics to form the dramatic topography of Henry W. Coe State Park. Our route will also afford sweeping views of the Santa Clara Valley, Monterey Bay, the volcanic peaks to the south, the Central Valley, and even some Sierran peaks, depending on the day's visibility. Terrain: moderate ups and downs, with a short, steep downhill section at the end.

What to bring: Hat, sunscreen, sturdy shoes, water, snacks, and optional hiking poles. Rain cancels. Please check for any messages the evening before the walk.

Cautions: The Meetup hike leaders and guides are volunteers willing to share their experiences in a social hiking environment. Hiking risks include ticks, poison oak, and uneven trail surfaces. Each participant is responsible for evaluating their own hiking skills and stamina to determine if this hike is suitable for them to participate.

Directions: https://coepark.net/planning-your-visit/visitor-centers-and-park-entrances/visitor-center/
Allow 30 minutes to get to Henry W. Coe State Park from the Hwy 101 turnoff onto East Dunne Avenue in Morgan Hill. The road up to the Coe Ranch Visitor Center is narrow and scenic. Take your time and enjoy. Parking is $8.00 ($7.00 senior). The following State Park passes are also accepted: Golden Bear, Poppy Pass, and Explorer. Please carpool and arrive early! If the group camps fill up, we WILL run out of parking. There is minimal parking availability outside the park. Allow extra time to walk the 1/2 mile from the remote lot (the first lot you see when you reach the park entrance).