Sanborn (Peterson - John Nicholas Loop)
Details
Length: 8.5 miles
Elevation: 1,850 feet gain
Difficulty: Moderately strenuous, a few steep sections on the climb
Sanborn County Park is a lushly wooded park with nearly 4,000 acres of mixed evergreen forests nestled in the Santa Cruz mountains between the town of Saratoga and Skyline Boulevard.
The hike will climb Peterson trail and Sanborn trail. Snack and bathroom stop at Sunnyvale Mountain. We will head over to John Nicholas trail for the descent using the Skyline trail (this is lovely trail with gently descending switchbacks and a great view point; unfortunately there WILL be bikes). After passing the Lake Ranch Reservoir, we will use Lake Ranch trail to Sanborn Road. We have to walk on the road for 3/4 mile to return to the park, but there is not much traffic on this section.
Driving Directions to Trailhead: Meet in Sanborn Park. Take 85 exit to Saratoga Avenue. Go through the village of Saratoga on Big Basin Avenue and continue up highway 9 (same road, 3 different names). Take a left on Sanborn Road. Drive approximately a mile or two and come to the park entrance on the right hand side. After you pass the entry kiosk (where you get a parking pass), make the first right and head into the Peterson Grove parking area.
Disclaimer: The posting of this hike does not reflect any assurance by the hike leader that group hiking is now a fully safe activity or sanctioned by the CDC or Santa Clara County Health. Hike only if you are comfortable with the risk. The South Bay Ramblers Hiking Group and its event organizers are not responsible for your safety. Outdoor activities are inherently dangerous. By signing up for these events, you agree to release the South Bay Ramblers Hiking Group and its event organizers from any responsibility, liability, or claim in law or in equity. If you don't agree to these terms, DO NOT join this meetup event. The South Bay Ramblers does not certify the expertise of its event organizers - we are all volunteers. You are responsible for yourself. Please come prepared with appropriate hiking shoes, gear and water.