For just two days this year, the gate at Bells Station will be
open and hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts alike have a chance
to visit the beautiful and rare side of Henry W. Coe State Park.
Only a handful of visitors will be allowed access to the east side
of the Park
– a remote area isolated from the park’s Morgan Hill entrance by
12 miles of rugged terrain.
Staff Report
Gilroy – For just two days this year, the gate at Bells Station will be open and hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts alike have a chance to visit the beautiful and rare side of Henry W. Coe State Park. Only a handful of visitors will be allowed access to the east side of the Park – a remote area isolated from the park’s Morgan Hill entrance by 12 miles of rugged terrain.
From April 29 to 30 the gate will be open during Backcountry Weekend for selected equestrians, hikers, bikers and campers. Adventurers can walk the park alone or with park rangers on guided tours, wildflower walks, and horseback rides.
The deciduous trees will have started to unfold their leaves, the creeks flowing – and wildflowers blooming.
“By far it’s the nicest time in the park,” said Park Ranger Barry Breckling.
In the past, only half of the applicants eligible for the weekend trip are granted access, Breckling said estimating that there is room for about 330 cars.
Applications are only accepted during the month of February. They will be available Jan. 18 on the park’s Web site. Forms can be picked up at Coe Park Headquarters, and at Morgan Hill, Gilroy and Modesto libraries. Written requests should be addressed to Application Forms, Coe Backcountry Weekend, 1410 Terri Lynn Court, Gilroy, CA 95020.
Applicants will hear one way or another by Mid-March. For more information visit www.coepark.org
