[Saratoga, CA] The Hiking Trails of Montalvo "Villa of the Arts"

The Historic Montalvo Arts Center is famous for its "Art on the Grounds", and beautiful lawns and gardens, as well as, their support for the artists, musicians and writers. Although the grounds are beautiful and great for an afternoon stroll, what most visitors do not notice right away (especially on their first visit) are the hidden hiking trails behind the historic villa and auditorium.

Montalvo has around 175 acres of hiking trails tucked away in the Foothills of the City of Saratoga. There are a few entrances to get onto the many trails. On the West side, you can enter on Norton Road to get on Orchard Trail, or you can start on the East near Parking Lot 3 or 4 to go straight onto Lookout Trail. Here is a link to the map for reference.

My favorite entry way is through Poet's Walk, on the west side of the Garden Theatre, which is right behind the Historic Villa, which you can miss since it is a giant mansion behind an equally giant lawn. Along Poet's Walk, you are treated to a nice poem on your way to these old stone steps that lead up to a statue of Montalvo's founder, James Duval Phelan. Once you have reach this statue, turn left to get on the Redwood Trail.

The Redwood Trail is true to its name. The foothills of Saratoga is full of giant redwood trees. It's hard not to feel small among these magnificent beauties.

The goal is to get to the Look Out Point, where the reward is a beautiful view of the Valley below. You will be able to see Downtown San Jose from up there. So most of the hike is uphill. Don't worry, the climb to the top is completely shaded, thanks to the Redwoods. However, it's another story once you have reached to the peak of 1,120 ft. The Look Out Point is completely exposed to the sun, but the view makes up for it. 

RELATED POST: Montalvo "Villa of the Arts" Center, Saratoga, CA

A hike on the trails of Montalvo is short and sweet. It's the perfect place that combines nature and art into one. So if you do decide to make a trip to Montalvo, don't forget there is a nice, short hike behind the Villa.

Happy Wandering, Alice.