Picchetti Ranch Open Space Preserve — Attraction in Cupertino

Cute little open space preserve just outside Cupertino.

The main parking lot is by the winery (which I haven't tried, so I can't comment on the wine), but I like to park on Stevens Canyon Rd. at the nondescript trailhead on the west side of the road just before the fire station. You get more of a workout hiking from there, plus there are pretty views of the reservoir (and the South Bay beyond).

There's only space for maybe 4 cars, but even at midday on weekends I've never had trouble parking, possibly because it's a blink-and-you-miss-it turnout from the road.

Once you reach roughly the altitude of the winery, there's a pretty pond as well. Good odds of seeing deer both at the pond and on the trail in general. Lots of butterflies at this time of year too (mid-May), and while the grass is turning yellow, there are still more wildflowers and flowering plants than you might expect.

From the vista point at the top, there's a view (partially obstructed by trees) of the South and East Bay. The descent down the more open trail is pretty steep and gravelly, so be careful! (It's not the only available path down though.)

As with most South Bay trails, watch for poison oak and the occasional snake (though I've only ever seen one, which might have been a gopher snake and was just chilling in the sun).

Overall about two miles (3 km) and 400' (120 m) of elevation gain if you start from the lower trailhead described above.

The views may not be as spectacular as what you can see in the mountains, but that doesn't diminish the charm and convenience of this...

Fun hiking location with decent parking on dirt lot. Note there is a winery next door, but avoid parking your car at the winery if you can. The trailhead is well marked, with a big map pinned behind glass, and also smaller copies of trail map to carry with you. The hike is not particularly strenuous - few elevation changes, and can easily be done with sneakers/tennis shoes. There is supposed to be a lake just shortly after start of trail. Unfortunately, lack of rain means it’s just a bowl with grass growing. Trail path is well marked and worn, so you are not likely to get lost even without a map. The trails are mostly shaded and cool, though there are a few short sections that are exposed and it can get warm under the sun. Most of the trail is relatively narrow and best to walk/hike one person in front of other. The winery also has a few tables for picnic.. and an open space if you wish to sit on grass. Overall, very good trail and hike. Def will...

Took my out -of -state cousins for wine tasting. The tasting room is open from 11am-4 pm on regular weekday and their website and the customer service that answers the phone are super helpful. That is why the 5 stars. Now about the tasting:

The wine tasting costs about $15 per person and one can select about 5 verities. If you are unsure about what to try the sommelier can suggest. Now, they do not offer cheese or glass of water to wash away the taste of the previous wine prior to tasting the next one. You kind of get what you pay for. The wines are good, not excellent per my cousins. One of the pros is, the wines are kind of unique because they sell them only from their winery, not available for purchase anywhere else. At least that was what I was told when I asked them if I can find them at local stores. So will be good one-of-the-kind gifts like ifonly experiences. Easy to get...