Ed R. Levin County Park — Attraction in Milpitas

WONDERFUL time today!

My uncle and I went horseback riding for the first time in AGES. He hadn't been on a horse in about sixty years, and I hadn't been since the third grade.

Because my birthday was coming up, we decided to go. Well, my birthday was Monday, so it turned out to be a belated present but also a research experience for me since I have some books coming up that include riding horses, and I wanted to get fresh experience since it's been a few years since my first go.

And I'm SO glad I decided to do this ride because I learned so much to make my scenes more authentic.

Our guide was Jenny, who was very sweet and helpful and made the experience even more enjoyable as she regaled us with tales of her youth spent on horseback.

Jenny led us on the trail atop Sizzle. My horse was Lana. My uncle had Lucky. We paid for the hour tour, and it takes you on a good stretch of the park, descending, ascending, and crossing the street.

We came across a bunch of wild turkeys (it's a gaggle of geese (I think), but are turkeys "gaggles," too?) and, nearing the end, even a BOBCAT! Thank God our horses didn't freak, and the bobcat seemed more afraid of us than we of him, and he just crossed the trail and headed for a fallen eucalyptus tree for cover.

Along the hillside, you get this amazing view of the surrounding hills and even of the Bay (though we had a touch of fog obscuring that view). If I had a bit more proficiency, I would’ve loved to’ve taken a camera to get some shots!

Anyhow, at the end, Jenny took our pictures (they ask you not to bring your phones) and promised to send them our way later. If so (and it looks good), I'll try to attach it to this review later.

If you're new to riding, don't worry. The horses are gentle, and you get to mount/dismount via a block if you need help. They also give lessons, which I may look into for book research and because I LOVE horses and truly enjoyed the experience.

If you're looking for something new to try, definitely consider reserving time for a trail ride. It’s really an hour (or however long you...

Ed R. Levin Park, nestled in the stunning Calaveras mountains, has the nickname "Little Switzerland." This park presents a landscape reminiscent of the Swiss countryside, featuring rolling hills, lush meadows, and grazing cattle. During spring, the verdant hills are dotted with colorful wildflowers, such as California poppies, lovely lupine, and bright yellow wild mustard, which enhance the beauty of the landscape.

Different levels of hike are here. From the shortest next to the lake to 8+ miles to the summit of Monument Peak, ascended more than 2,000 feet in elevation, or, for a greater challenge, there's also a 13-mile hike to Mission Peak starting from Ed Levin Park with a 3,172-foot elevation gain.

There is a $6 entrance fee. This park is also covered by the Santa Clara County Parks Annual Vehicle Entry Pass, which is $95 at the regular price, but it's reduced to $15 for eligible individuals and families who participate in certain social programs like Medi-Cal, CalFresh, SSI, or CalWORKs or use services at the Department of Family and Children's Services San Jose or Gilroy...

Went here for Mother's Day with my three daughters, my mother, my sister and her three daughters. It was a fun experience but it did seem that we didn't go horseback riding for the full hour it was more or less we had to wait 10 to 15 minutes it felt like for the other horses to arrive for all 9 of us, and when they did come we had to another few minutes because my little one started to get a little scared because her horse was a lot larger they didn't have a pony for her. I swear I let them know the ages of the smallest member but that could have been my mistake and I did not inform them in time for them to provide a small enough horse for a 10 year old. Either way, they works really well with her to read assure her that everything was going to be fine which I really liked and after we got started we all had a blast and my nieces definitely will be volunteering their during the summer since they live about 10 minutes away. With all that being said it could have been the full hour I guess when you're on such a beautiful animal you lose...