Deer Hollow Farm dates back to the 1850s, representing one of the few surviving examples of early Santa Clara Valley homesteading.
The preserve serves as a key migratory corridor for local wildlife moving between the valley floor and higher mountain elevations.
The 'Hidden Villa' trail provides a connection to the nearby privately owned environmental education center of the same name.
The park's location atop an ancient landslide complex contributes to the unique topographical diversity of its hiking trails.
Bicycles are permitted only on the lower, paved-to-gravel service roads leading to the farm and are banned from all single-track interior trails.
Rancho San Antonio is a combined county park and open space preserve located in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains in Cupertino. The site features the Deer Hollow Farm, a functioning 19th-century-style farm that serves as an educational center for local schools. Visitors access over 20 miles of trails traversing oak woodlands, chaparral, and riparian corridors. Deer Hollow Farm houses heritage breeds of livestock, including chickens, pigs, and goats, maintained for agricultural education. The preserve is a segment of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, which manages the land for habitat protection and recreation. Extensive trail networks connect the lower farm area to elevated ridges with views of the Silicon Valley floor. The preserve protects habitat for diverse wildlife including black-tailed deer, bobcats, and various raptors. Bicycles are strictly prohibited on most interior trails to minimize impact on sensitive ecosystems.
The elevated ridgelines of the Upper High Meadow Trail, offering a panoramic perspective of the Santa Clara Valley.
Arrive early on weekends as the main parking lot fills to capacity frequently, leading to long entry delays.
Bring ample water as most of the internal trails are exposed with very little shade coverage during the afternoon.
Check the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space website for specific trail closure alerts, especially during or after the rainy season.
Attempting to visit during mid-day on a summer Saturday, as traffic congestion at the entrance is a chronic issue.
The main parking area often experiences peak congestion on weekends; certain trails may close temporarily following heavy winter rains.
Stay on marked trails to protect sensitive habitat and prevent erosion; keep dogs on a leash at all times; no smoking or fires allowed.
