The preserve is named after Fremont Older, a prominent early 20th-century San Francisco newspaper editor who owned the ranch here.
The Hunter family, who homesteaded the land in the 1850s, remains memorialized by the small historic cemetery near the summit.
The property serves as an important wildlife corridor connecting to the larger Sierra Azul range.
During the spring months, the preserve exhibits a diverse display of native wildflowers including California poppies and lupines.
The preserve's trail system was partially developed from old ranch roads used during the property's agricultural era.
Fremont Older Open Space Preserve is a 739-acre hilly landscape situated in the Santa Cruz Mountains foothills. The preserve features a network of multi-use trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Hunters Point, the highest point in the preserve, provides panoramic views of the Santa Clara Valley and the South Bay. The terrain is characterized by oak woodland, grassland, and chaparral habitats. Visitors can explore the historic Hunter family cemetery located near the top of the trails. Several trails link the preserve to the neighboring Rancho San Antonio County Park. The preserve is managed by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District. Water sources are not available within the preserve boundaries.
The bench at the summit of Hunters Point, which offers a 360-degree view of the Cupertino and San Jose urban sprawl.
Download offline maps before arrival, as cell service is inconsistent throughout the steep, hilly terrain.
Carry plenty of water, as there are no filling stations or fountains inside the preserve.
Mountain bikers must yield to hikers and equestrians on all narrow or blind trail sections.
Do not attempt the steep, unshaded sections during midday heat, as there is very little natural cover.
Open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Stay on marked trails to protect sensitive habitat and prevent erosion; leashed dogs are permitted on most trails.
