El Sereno OSP ≈ 10 mi/2k ft
Details
Join me on this out-and-back hike which includes a 3.8 mile section of the Bay Area Ridge Trail and starts off with a one-mile steep climb up Sherman Road to get to the trailhead. (ICYW..."El Sereno" means Night Watchman or The Guardian and sereno means calm or tranquil - which aptly describes the vibe of this trail.)
The 1,614-acre preserve is named for Mount El Sereno, a prominent ridge in the Santa Cruz Mountains located south of Saratoga and west of Los Gatos. The route features mostly wide and exposed trails, some narrow shaded areas along the creek, a few steep sections with rocky terrain, and sweeping views of Sierra Azul and St. Joseph’s Hill preserves as well as Lexington Reservoir and the South Bay.
DIRECTIONS: Meet at the corner of Madrone Ave. and Overlook Road in Los Gatos. There is ample street parking in this quiet neighborhood.
DIFFICULTY: Moderate to strenuous ≈ 10 mi., 2k ft. elev. gain
(Starts out with a steep climb on residential roads to the trailhead followed by endless gradual switchbacks on Aquinas Trail.)
PACE: +/- 2.8 MPH
We’ll take a brief lunch/snack break at a convenient spot. The weather forecast is a pleasant 60-70 degrees.
REMINDER: Bring layers, at least 2 liters of water, snacks or lunch, sunscreen/hat, sturdy footwear, and poles if you use them.
The end time is estimated. Please consider that for your planning purposes,
Optional post-hike food and beverage TBD.