48 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM {due west} You’re also welcome to bring your casting rod to hook bluegill and bass (though catch and release is recommended due to the recent discovery of mercury in these fish). Feeling competitive? Bring a few frisbees and try your hand at the Villa Maria Disc Golf Course. Just a few minutes from the reserTAKE A HIKE The hikers among us will be pleased to find the foothills overflowing with trails and lofty outlooks. All are welcome at the Fremont Older Open Space Preserve, including horseback riders and cyclists. Check the Midpeninsula Open Space website for docent-led cycling ventures along the popular paths of this preserve (an upcoming one on October 26 has a History on Two Wheels theme). Located on the urban fringe of Santa Clara Valley, the park’s Woodhills Loop Trail leads to stellar citywide views at Hunter’s Point. Over at Saratoga Quarry Park, you’ll discover remnants of a historic quarry and informative plaques about the area’s industrial past, plus well-maintained trails, primo picnic areas and a hidden labyrinth. Last but not least, trek the breathtaking Hickory Oaks Trail at Long Ridge Open Space Preserve. Follow the path as it rolls gently over the grassy hills, the surrounding mountain ridges and misty forests stretching as far as the eye can see. As the sun turns in for the night, bid the foothills a fond farewell. voir, this woodsy 11-hole course is perfect for a little friendly rivalry. You might also choose to embrace your inner archer by loading your quiver over at the nearby Bowhunters Unlimited Archery Range. Whether you opt for haybale targets spread across a hillside clearing or a walking course winding through the woods, it’s sure to be a major hit. Not yet a Robin Hood on the range? Not a problem. Sign up for a lesson via the Bowhunters Unlimited website and you’ll be striking bullseyes in no time. Speaking of pointy things, consider stopping by Skyline Chestnuts in nearby La Honda for the annual autumn harvest of the world’s spikiest nuts (buckets and suitably thick work gloves provided). PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF: KIRK LOUGHEED / SANDIP BHATTACHARYA ABOVE: (top) Breathtaking views from Long Ridge Open Space Preserve; (below) a sunny day at Stevens Creek Reservoir.
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