wild women walking: Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve

April 15, 2018
Santa Clara County
Hikers: Cathy, Laura
Distance: 7.65 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,286 ft.

Mount Umunhum's name is derived from the Ohlone Indian's word for hummingbird.

You have more than likely spotted the big cement block atop this mountain while cruising along highway 17 on your way to Santa Cruz or from a trail while hiking Almaden Quicksilver County Park.

Our destination.

Remnant foundation of a 20th century cabin.

Trail closed due to renovations to tower.

The steps we couldn't take.

From this point up to the tower, there is plenty of seating, which is nice when you want to rest a spell and have a snack.

Steps from the parking lot up to the tower. One hundred fifty-nine to be exact.

Ceremonial Circle

"The first people to visit Mount Umunhum thousands of years ago were the native people of California for whom this mountain was sacred. Their descendants requested a place where they could return to Mount Umunhum for the first time in nearly 200 years to pray and dance where they feel closer to their creator, just like their ancestors did." -source