East Glenwood Open Space Preserve

📣 25th Anniversary Celebration after the hike!

Host: Mary S.

In 1993, a concerned group of citizens formed the Friends of Glenwood. The group worked to overturn plans to develop what is now Glenwood Open Space Preserve. The proposed development would have removed the hilltops and placed 276 homes and a golf course on 170 acres. Thanks to their efforts, this last remaining undeveloped land in Scotts Valley continues to be forests, meadows, riparian areas, and wetlands.

Glenwood is home to a high number of rare and endangered species, including the Ohlone tiger beetle, Opler’s longhorn moth, and the Scotts Valley spineflower. The land also works to recharge the aquifer beneath it, the prime source of water for the community.

The cows on the property are part of the strategy to protect the rare and endangered species on the property. As the Preserve Manager, we have the responsibility of protecting and enhancing the habitat for these special species. Conservation grazing is one of the ways we enhance the habitat for endangered species. Some species thrive with short grass and bare soil, and cattle grazing is an effective way to accomplish this.

The Glenwood Open Space Preserve trail system was designed, permitted, and built by the Land Trust of Santa Cruz County through donations from Santa Cruz County Land Trust members.

The Hike

This hike will be a combination of walking three trail loops through diverse environments that include both redwood and open chaparral. Bring layers, brimmed hat and something to sit on for the meeting.

Level: 2 (Moderate) | Miles: 5 | Elevation: 400′

Getting There
(click for directions)

Approximately 35 minutes from San Jose. From  I-280 N, Exit to CA-17 S to Glenwood Dr in Scotts Valley – Take exit 5 (24.6 miles) Continue on Glenwood Drive Right on Vine Hill School Rd to the Vine Hill School Parking Lot at 127 Vine Hill School Rd, Scotts Valley, CA 95066 We will walk from the parking lot through Siltanen Park to the Preserve

Know Before You Go

Parking is free. No dogs. No toilets.

📣25 year celebration will be held after the hike, 3-6pm in Scotts Valley. This will be a pot luck with games and a gear swap. Learn more»