Summary

We'll begin our hike inside the Joseph D. Grant County Park at the Grant Lake trailhead.  The hike is about 8.8 miles roundtrip with an elevation gain of 1,800 feet.  From the trailhead, we'll edge around Grant Lake itself, then take the Halls Valley trail to the Los Huecos trail.  Heading mostly uphill, Los Huecos trail is known for great birdwatching, so if we're lucky we may spot hawks, eagles, and other raptors perched about in the area.  At the top of Los Huecos, we'll take the Canada de Pala trail with fine views of San Jose and South San Francisco Bay.   Before reaching the summit of Antler Point, we'll bear right onto the Pala Seca trail for the last 1.6 miles through grasslands to the top.  

For the return, we'll take a different track on another section of the Canada de Pala trail, then take the Halls Valley trail back to Grant Lake.  One notable feature of the Halls Valley area are the packs of goofy wild pigs that live in the area.   Fear not, though, as most are afraid of the mighty human.

Participants on this hike should wear sturdy shoes, bring plenty of water, snacks, and a lunch as the hike generally takes about 5 hours.  Be mindful also that there is very little shade on these trails, so sunscreen is appropriate for most.

Directions To Trailhead Parking Lot

 Contact hike organizer for details but, from I-680 in San Jose, take the Alum Rock Avenue exit and drive East for 2.2 miles.  Then turn right onto Mount Hamilton Road and drive 7.9 miles to the sign for the Joseph D Grant County Park on the right.  Pass the sign and continue straight ahead to the Grant Lake parking area on the left side of the road.