Almaden Quicksilver County Park Large Loop
Details
**IMPORTANT**
**PLEASE READ ALL INFORMATION**
Join me for my first sojourn into Almaden Quicksilver County park. I've constructed a route that includes the park's dense oak woodlands and historic fire roads on the eastern and central slopes. We will largely be protected from the sun while enjoying a hearty workout.
We'll start out in a cool shaded forest with a steady climb. We'll pass through the heart of the park's historic mining zone and continue climbing to sweeping views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and Mt. Umunum. Then we'll drop down through the darker, damper ravines and return on the New Almaden Trail, the coolest 😎, shadiest and most sheltered trail in the park.
Our route:
https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/almaden-quicksilver-county-park-large-loop-c56f2b7?u=i&sh=gi7zbr
Weather forecast is bright sunshine with temps high 50s to mid-70s.
We're starting this hike early because it is a holiday and the park will probably get busy as the day progresses. I would schedule for Friday but there is a good chance of rain that day.
There are bathrooms at the parking lot.
Intensity: Difficult (see Photo below) Length: 11+ miles**
Time: 5+ hours Elevation gain: 1900+feet Route type: Loop
**For those wanting a shorter hike feel free to join us because my large loop route passes two short connector trails to New Almaden Trail, the trail that leads back to the parking lot. The first connector creates a 6.8 mile loop and the second connector creates an 8.8 loop.
Please wear hiking shoes/boots with good tread. Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen and your adventurous spirit!
Safety: Please keep in mind that you always hike at your own risk and you are ultimately responsible for your own safety.
Take a few moments and refer to the frequently updated Soquel SoleMates Hiking Group general description ("What We're About") for important information about this group. Soquel Soulmates Hiking Group
https://www.meetup.com/soquel-solemates-hiking-group/
I hope to see you there!
Jill :)
Please RSVP only if you are committed to attend. Reevaluate your availability a few days before the hike and withdraw at that time if you can no longer commit.