It always surprises me that so many of us who live in the shadow of northern California’s largest state park don’t even know it is there. Many others have heard of it, but they have never visited the park.
Though Henry W. Coe State Park is wonderful any time of year, in spring the hills are green, the creeks are running, and the flowers are in bloom. The place is beautiful. Like proud parents, park staff and volunteers like to show off their “gifted child,” so there is always a full schedule of events this time of year. One is sure to suit you and your family. (Complete information about all the events below is at www.CoePark.org > Programs & Events > PRA Events).
The Mother’s Day Breakfast is Coe Park’s most popular event. Treat Mom to an amazing breakfast of scrambled eggs, pork sausage (or a veggie alternative), homemade biscuits, and country fried potatoes served in a beautiful meadow under in the shade of the oaks just a short walk from park headquarters. Volunteers do all the work while you eat and enjoy the fresh morning beauty. Tickets are available starting March 15. Hurry, because this event always sells out. Adults $16.00, Seniors and Children $9.75.
The following weekend, on May 17, learn about ranch life and ranch animals at Ranch Day. At the Hunting Hollow park entrance near Gilroy, there will be plenty of crafts and exhibits as well as horses and other ranch animals to meet. The only charge is the standard day-use fee ($6) unless you can spare $3 for a hot dog lunch. Bring rubber boots for the kids to play in the creek.
I will be leading two weekend backpack trips (March 22 and 23 and April 5 and 6) for experienced backpackers into the remote region of the park. We will drive deep into the east side of the park before we take to the trail. There is a special solitude and beauty waiting out there in what I think is the park’s prettiest area. Pine Ridge Association members $45, non-members $55. Go to www.CoePark.org > Programs & Events > Coe Outings for information and to sign up.
A weekend Coe Outings adventure for cyclists is scheduled for the weekend of May 2 – 4. Participants will camp at Pacheco Camp and all cyclists’ gear will be shuttled to camp so riders can enjoy an unencumbered ride. The $60 cost includes all park fees and four meals.
On March 29, I will lead a one-day outing that is also in the rarely visited east side of the park. The class is offered through Gavilan College Community Education, and it is a great day in a very wild part of the park. Get more information and sign up at www.GavilanCE.com > Courses > Leisure > Outdoors or call (408) 852-2801. Cost: $75 + $12 materials fee.
If you have tromped or ridden the trails at Coe Park and would like to help build and maintain them, Coe Park volunteers would love your help. March 22 is the next Trail Work Day. Bring some friends and get a good workout, donuts and coffee, and a good feeling that comes from helping out. The trail location hasn’t been set yet, but watch the website for details as the day draws near.
This is just the tip of the iceberg. Visit www.CoePark.org to see the full list of coming activities. Don’t let another spring pass before you visit this beautiful park.
