Discovering A Hidden Gem in South San Jose

**Event:** 207n**Distance:** 5.6 milesn**Total Elevation Gain:** 1,410 ft.n**Difficulty:** Moderate Challengingn**Route type:** loopn**Gathering Coordinates:**n37.01140572000272, -121.70788913837735nPlease navigate through Google Map.n**Timing:** We gather at 9:45 A.M. We’ll leave at 10:00 am sharp.nn**Hike Overview:**nMt. Madonna County Park is one of Santa Clara County’s most majestic regional parks and recreation areas. This 4,605-acre park is dominated by the redwood forest which is characteristic of the Santa Cruz Mountain range. To the east, the park overlooks the Santa Clara Valley, and to the west, Monterey Bay. As the slopes of Mt. Madonna descend toward the valley, the landscape changes from redwood forest to oak woodland, dense scrub, and grassy meadows.nn**Trail Map:**nhttps://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/california/nature-merry-go-round-ridge-loopn(The first part of the trail is mostly flat, then all downhill up to the 3rd mile. From the 3rd mile on out is pretty steep. Poles are recommended.nn**Parking:**nParking lot fee is $6. Carpooling is recommended.nn**Be Prepared:**nRecommonded to have sunscreen and/or hat, sturdy hiking shoes/boots, at least one liter of water, poles (optional), and a good attitude!😎nn**Dog:**nDogs on leash are allowed.nn**Do Not Attend:**nIf you’re experiencing any cold or flu symptoms, have compromised immune systems, or if you’ve been exposed to or tested positive for COVID-19.nLegal DisclaimersnBy voluntarily joining us for any event, you hereby RELEASE and DISCHARGE Nature Bloomers organizers, hosts, and participants from any and all liability, claims, demands, or causes of action arising in whole or in part out of our events.nYour attendance implies to be in the photos and videos taken to be posted on our social media.nn**Legal Disclaimers:**nWe show our respect to the wilderness and other hikers by not playing music and leaving speakers home.nBy voluntarily joining us for any event, you hereby RELEASE and DISCHARGE Nature Bloomers, organizers, hosts, and participants from any and all liability, claims, demands, or causes of action arising in whole or in part out of our events.nYour attendance implies your consent to be in the photos and videos.