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Spotted Sandpiper by Teresa Cheng

Field Trip: Penitencia Creek Trail and Ponds (San Jose)

Penitencia Creek flows from the Diablo range through Alum Rock into Coyote Creek. This trip explores a section of the Penitencia Creek Trail, nearby percolation ponds, and surrounding fields. This urban hotspot hosts a variety of winter visitors from warblers and kinglets to ducks and gulls along with year-round residents. This short, flat walk is great for beginners and experienced birders looking for a variety of species.

Trip Difficulty: 2 miles, gravel trails, packed-dirt trails, lawns (potentially wet), muddy or possibly muddy after rain, little or no elevation gain, some shade

Other Trip Notes: No facilities. Nearest bathrooms can be found at the Penitencia Creek Park Playground next to the Berryessa Community Center (opens at 8 am). Trip experience can change based on the water levels of the ponds. Heavy rain cancels.

Leaders: Ryan Ludman (248) 719-1331

Family Friendly Ages 14 and up, Beginner Friendly

Meet: Park along chain link fence on Noble Avenue, near "Penitencia Creek Reach 2" sign

Directions: From I-680 in San Jose, take the Berryessa Rd exit east. Continue on Berryessa Rd for 1.3 mi, turn right onto Piedmont Rd, continue for 0.3 mi, turn left onto Noble Ave. The destination will be on the right in 0.3 mi. GPS: 37.393954, -121.838461

Facilities: No toilets, cell phone service

Parking Type and Fees: dirt parking lot, no fees

Banner Photo: Spotted Sandpiper by Teresa Cheng

Questions? Email general questions to fieldtrips@scvbirdalliance.org or contact the trip leader for questions regarding the event.