Deer Hollow Farm and Rancho San Antonio

Bridge at Rancho San Antonio, animals and flower at Deer Hollow Farm

Hiking at Rancho San Antonio

Rancho San Antonio offers an amazing array of hiking trails within its 24 miles of open space.  The trail most frequented by families is the 3-mile Wildcat Loop. Serious hikers will want to try the very popular 8.8-mile PG&E Trail.  From higher ridges you will absolutely fall in love with the picturesque views. 

Keep in mind ...

•  Pack water, sunscreen and a hat. Most trails have large areas of direct sun and it can get toasty.  There is no access to water so please plan accordingly.
• Potty breaks.  This is an open space preserve and there are only a few bathrooms, all near the trail head and Deer Hollow Farm.
• Poison Ivy is prevalent.  Know your plant - leaves of three, let it be.
• Sorry, no dogs.
• Parking can be nearly impossible on the weekend.  There are two main parking lots and they fill up quickly.  Try visiting during the week. Rancho San Antonio Website

Deer Hollow Farm

The City of Mountain View supports this 150 year old working farm and education center.  Because it is a working farm you are able to purchase eggs and seasonal produce (when available) and visit the animals who live at the farm which include: chickens, ducks, geese, rabbits, a cow, goats, sheep and pigs.  Your family can take a self-guided tour of the farm and garden.  Note that the barn and buildings are normally closed to the general public but the animals roam their pen during the day.  Because it is a working farm, docents and staff are generally available to answer questions when they are on site.

Keep in mind ...

• Lots of photo opportunities so don't forget your camera.
• Expect a short hike to the farm from the lower parking lot. 
• Bring a picnic lunch and eat under the open-air roof of the original barn.
• Check the city website for updates about docent-led opportunities and special events.  Deer Hollow Farm Website 

Directions

From I-280, north or south, take the Foothill Boulevard exit and proceed south on Foothill Boulevard approximately 0.2-mile to Cristo Rey Drive. Turn right on Cristo Rey Drive, continue for about 1 mile, veer right around the traffic circle, and turn left into the County Park entrance. There are several parking lots, including one designated for equestrian trailers. The trailhead for Rancho San Antonio is located adjacent to the 85-car parking area in the northwest lot. Access to Deer Hollow Farm is most accessible from the lower lot.