Wildflower hikes

The Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority is offering hikers three weekends to explore Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve during peak wildflower season. While the preserve usually offers only docent-led hikes, hikers can register to take a self-guided stroll through the preserve Fridays-sundays, through March 28, 8 a.m-5 p.m.

Coyote Ridge comprises 1,831 pristine acres located in the Diablo Range foothills in southern Santa Clara County. The preserve offers wildflower displays paired with views of the Coyote Valley. The rare serpentine grassland provides critical habitat for over a dozen threatened and rare species, including Bay Checkerspot butterflies, Metcalf Canyon jewelflowers, burrowing owls and golden eagles.

The lower area contains about 2.5 miles of trail with minimal incline for easy hiking and plenty of habitat to explore.

Those interested in a longer hike can trek up the Coyote Ridge Trail to the top of the ridge. The trail includes a steep 900foot elevation gain over 2 miles, so hiking poles are recommended for the return trip down. The hike is a 5- to 8-mile round trip, depending on the route.

Registration is required to eventbrite. com, and attendees will be checked in upon arrival. Directions will be provided after registration, as well self-guided, interpretive trail map to download and print. Social distancing protocols will be observed.

For more information, visit https://www.openspaceauthority.org.