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Western Kingbird by John Scharpen
Joseph D. Grant County Park Ranch House Area (San Jose)
This park is located high in the east hills of San Jose part way to Mount Hamilton. It’s summer and a quiet time of year but there’s always something to see here. We’ll explore the historic ranch house area and nearby trails to look for Wild Turkeys, California Quail, Western Kingbirds, Bullock’s Orioles, Pacific-slope Flycatchers, Blue-gray Gnatcatchers and more.
Optional: pack your own lunch/snack and we'll picnic together afterwards.
Trip Difficulty: 2-3 miles, paved and packed-dirt trails, little or no elevation gain, no shade
Other Trip Notes: If it’s very hot that day, I will adjust the route and/or end the trip a little early.
Leaders: Eve Meier (408) 569-9391 and Edward Rooks (408) 318-2485
Beginner Friendly, Family Friendly Ages 10 and up, Intermediate Level Birding
Meet: Ranch house parking near green barn and restroom
Directions: From US-101 exit Capitol Expy in San Jose and continue east for 1.7 miles, turn right onto Quimby Rd and continue for 7 miles. Turn right onto CA-130 E and continue for 0.2 miles. The park entrance is on the right. After passing through the park entry kiosk, continue into the park for about 300 ft. At the brown sign directing you to the park office and ranch, turn left into the parking area. Park near the restroom and green barn. Note that google maps “Ranch House Parking Area” will take you to a different location in the large parking lot. Latitude/Longitude: 37.337975, -121.718018.
Driving Notes: Quimby Road winds up into the hills with some steep drop-offs and one short section of narrow road. As an alternative route, some people take Mount Hamilton Rd (Hwy 130) to the park.
Facilities: ADA accessible bathroom, drinking water, cell coverage may be intermittent or non-existent
Parking Type and Fees: paved parking lot, $6 credit card only or use a Santa Clara County Park annual pass
Questions? Email general questions to fieldtrips@scvas.org or contact the trip leader for questions regarding the event.