Come with the Young Birders Club to explore the chaparral, riparian, and grassland habitats of Alum Rock Park! Located in the Eastern Foothills of San Jose, this park is a safe haven for many diverse species of plants and animals. Strolling along Penitencia Creek, we’ll be on the lookout for Black-headed Grosbeak, Cassin’s Vireo, California Thrasher, raptors, and more birds enjoying the space for the summer.

This trip is designed for young birders, though parents and siblings are welcome to attend! We welcome birders of all skill levels. Loaner binoculars are available for participants.

Leaders: Allison Cheng and Valerie Wong

Meet: Eagle Rock Parking Lot (free). From the east entrance, go past the first small parking lot. The Eagle Rock Parking Lot is large, has a sign, and is located next to restrooms and a large hill.

Directions: From US-101 or I-680 exit McKee Rd east towards the hills. Turn left onto Toyon Ave then turn right onto Penitencia Creek Rd. Continue on Penitencia for about 0.7 miles into the park. Once in the park, continue another 0.9 miles. There is a control light along this stretch of the road due to the road washing away making the road a one lane road. The Eagle Rock parking lot is on your right. Latitude/Longitude: 37.393568, -121.815682.

Photo: Carter Gasiorowski