Martial Cottle Park 2015-09-29

Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, Martial Cottle Park is a historic agricultural farmland that now belongs to Santa Clara County Park. Belonging to the Cottle-Lester families for more than 150 years, the last descendant transferred the ownership to SCC Park so that future generations can appreciate what it was like in our very own backyard before the technology revolution. 

The main entrance to the park is from 5283 Snell Ave. However, several other entries to the perimeter trail and park is possible from Branham Lane, Chynoweth Ave (at Barron Park Dr and Duesenberg Dr). Low 60s marked a classic fall start to the day and our walk from Chynoweth Ave (at Barron Park Dr) entrance.  

A paved, multi-use trail goes around the perimeter of this agricultural land. This is a fairly new park and the trail itself was opened only in 2014. The trail crosses the Canoas creek, the bridge still looking brand new. The farm land is fenced and is still actively used for organic farming by Jacobs farms.

The trail turns eastward at Branham Lane and runs parallel to it for a while. At the intersection of Snell Ave, the trail turns south and leads you to the main entrance. Behind the main entrance is a visitors center and a large informational board describing the history of the ranch along with current developments in the valley, California, US and world. Very nicely done!

By the visitors center is also a huge lawn, a children's play area and several picnic spots, each named after the descendants of the Cottle-Lester family. Apollo was extraordinarily curious today and had his nose to the ground until we came up on the visitors center and lawns. Continuing past the area, the trail goes by the park offices before turning west at Chynoweth Ave (near Duesenberg Dr). 

Chynoweth Ave is not a through street for vehicular traffic, but the trail runs through the farm and got us to the place where I'd parked my car. As I walked this easy 3 mile loop, I was amazed at the determination of the Cottle-Lester family to preserve this small piece of history, not just for themselves but for everyone. 

Come here for a family picnic; or for a walk with your dog. Choose a time of day when it is nippy to enjoy the smell of the land. I've a reminder to myself to visit this park again in spring when it will be filled with vibrant colored flowers and fresh fruits and vegetables.

More pictures from our walk today.
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