Zinfandel Trail

The Zinfandel Trail spans the Pichetti Ranch Open Space Preserve and Stevens Creek Park as it meanders through the oak forests and chaparral hills of the area. The trail starts at the parking lot next to the Pichetti Winery, which makes for a great destination after your hike for a little refreshment. The trail meanders on the other side of the winery's picnic area before leaving the winery and working its way uphill through the orchards of the old Pichetti Ranch. The trail is wide at this point and can be heavily traveled by visitors of the winery. Views of the South Bay can be enjoyed on the left hand side of the trail. At roughly 0.25 miles, the Orchard Loop Trail breaks off to the left. A short distance further, Pichetti Ranch Pond sits off to the left of the trail. A seasonal wetland, this area provides habitat for a number of species and if there has been rainfall, ducks and geese may be seen swimming and relaxing in the water. There are two trails on either side of the pond that lead to a vista point where views of winery and surrounding area can be enjoyed. At roughly 0.5 miles, the Orchard Loop Trail joins back with the Zinfandel Trail on the left hand side. The dirt trail narrows and becomes a pedestrian-only trail (it was shared with equestrians up to this point) and begins to follow the hillsides of the area, with Stevens Creek Reservoir visible off to the lefthand side of the trail. The trail enters an oak forest and quickly comes to a small stream, which is easily crossed by a bridge. The trail climbs out of the ravine and enters Stevens Creek County Park. More views of the reservoir spread out before you at the top of the hike at roughly 1.4 miles. The trail drops back into the woods, where the shade from the trees provides relief from the sun, even in the middle of the day. From here, the trail descends through the woods and runs alongside Stevens Creek. The trail finally emerges at Cooley Picnic area, where there are picnic tables and toilets. From here, your only option is to turn around and retrace your steps as any other trails that may appear to lead back to earlier parts of the hike are on private property or necessitate heading alongside the road.