Mt Hamilton — Local services in San Jose

If youre headed here to check out the Mt. Lick observatory, be prepared for a drive for many turns on a windy road, some of which are blind. At the peak, however, the views make the drive worth it and then some. The observatory itself is populated by researchers who are sleeping during the day, so it's expected you will keep your visit quiet. The gift shop has a wide variety of options ranging from marbles to hoodies and socks, and the staff who works there and who conducts the tours is knowledgeable and friendly. On my trip I asked one of the maintenance men for directions and he also was kind. 10/10 panoramic views, 10/10 learning experience and 10/10 staff interactions....

I timed it perfectly as I drove up to Lick Observatory on Mount Hamilton on December/12/2022. There was a lot of snow getting up to the Summit. So be prepared for a drive with many many turns on a very windy road, some of which have blind spots. So my best advice is to take your time, and don't rush up to the peak. However, the views more than make the drive so worth it. Along the way, it has a few spots to full out areas for watching the sunset and the beautiful lights of San Jose City. It is so picturesque. Note, there are also many hiking trails to enjoy as well... I highly recommend this...

Long winding drive to the summit from San Jose. Due to pandemic Lick Observatory is closed and also there are no restrooms at the summit now. You can still see many people visiting the summit. You can see the devastation caused by Santa Clara lightning complex fire. You can enjoy the beautiful view from the summit. When I visited there was snow at the summit. You can see many cyclist riding on the way. There is very limited parking spaces now...