Sierra Club Ventana Chapter

# Sierra Club Ventana Chapter Hike: Mount Madonna Loop

Join the Sierra Club Ventana Chapter for a scenic morning hike through the lush forests and ridge lines of Mount Madonna County Park! We'll explore towering redwoods, dense oak and tanoak canopies, and enjoy sweeping views across southern Santa Clara County and the Pajaro Valley along the Bay Area Ridge Trail: Mount Madonna Loop.

### Event Details

• Date & Time: Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 9:00 AM
• Location: Mount Madonna County Park
• Trailhead / Meetup Location: Sprig Day Use Area, Blackhawk Canyon Rd, Gilroy, CA 95020
• Distance: 8.2 miles
• Elevation Gain: 1,646 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Pace: Steady / Casual

### Weather Forecast

• Conditions: Cool and partly sunny with morning marine cloudiness clearing to mild, clear skies.
• Temperature: ~56°F at 9:00 AM start, warming to a comfortable high near 67°F.
• Wind: Light southwest breezes (5–9 mph).
• Recommendation: Layer up! Early morning under the canopy can feel crisp before warming up as we hit the open ridges.

### What to Bring

• Water: At least 1.5 to 2 liters.
• Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots or trail runners with good traction.
• Layers: Light windbreaker or fleece layer for the cool morning start.
• Sun Protection: Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for open ridge sections.
• Snacks: Energy bars or a light trail lunch for our break.
• Parking Fee: Standard Santa Clara County Parks vehicle entry fee ($6) if parking inside the main park entrance.

### Important Notes

• Safety & Ethics: Please practice Leave No Trace principles. Stay on marked trails at all times.

★★★ Note: This is not an official Sierra Club outing. Everyone is welcome to join ★★★

Disclaimer: The organizer(s) are volunteers and not professional guides. By signing up for this trip, you are acknowledging that you are aware of the risks, dangers and hazards associated with any outdoor activity and freely accept and fully assume all such risks, dangers and hazards, and further agree to release and discharge the hike organizers against any and all liability arising from your participation in this activity.