Asterism: Joseph D. Grant County Park

Halls Valley Astronomical Group

Joseph D. Grant County Park

The Ranch House at Grant Park

Located in the hills east of San Jose, Joseph D. Grant County Park is the largest park managed by the Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation Department. This 9522-acre (3850-hectare) park ranges in elevation from 1200 feet (375 meters) to 3000 feet (915 meters), and has a 40-mile (65-kilometer) trail system that offers visitors the opportunity to hike, mountain bike, or horseback ride through some of the most beautiful scenery in the Bay Area.

Shaded picnic areas are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Campers can choose from among 22 first-come, first-served family campsites. Hot showers are available in the campground restroom. Group picnic and youth group camping areas are available by reservation. A large lake and several smaller ponds are accessible for warm water fishing.

Vehicle entry fees are collected year-round on weekends and holidays, and throughout the week from one week before Memorial Day until one week after Labor Day. Fees are required for camping and for use of the group picnic areas.

For more information on camping and other activities at the park, visit the Grant Park Home Page provided by the Santa Clara County Parks Department.

Directions
In San Jose, from either highway 101 or highway 680, exit at the Alum Rock Avenue interchange. Go east on Alum Rock Avenue (which is also state highway 130) for 3.6 miles from route 101 or 2.2 miles from route 680. Turn right on Mount Hamilton Road (which continues state highway 130). There is a sign at this intersection indicating Grant Park. Continue on Mount Hamilton Road for 7.7 miles. This takes you over the first ridge of the mountains and into Halls Valley. Turn right at the park entrance, which is indicated by the large "Joseph D. Grant County Park" sign.

Asterism