Alum Rock Park

History

Alum Rock Park was founded in 1872 and is one of California's oldest municipal parks. Nestled within the Alum Rock Canyon in the foothills of the Diablo Range, the Park's 720 acres of natural, rugged beauty, provide visitors with many leisure outdoor activities including hiking, horseback riding, bicycling, family and group picnicking, and of course just relaxing. Picnic tables, barbecue pits, water and restrooms are available in most picnic areas, with lawns and a children's playground in the mid-canyon area. 1890 to 1932 the park was a nationally known health spa with 27 mineral springs, an indoor swimming pool, tea garden, restaurant, and dance pavilion. At the time you could ride from downtown San Jose to the park on the Alum Rock Steam Railroad, a ride that cost a quarter. Today, remnants of the railroad bridges can be seen, some of the stone grottos that contain mineral springs are still accessible, but now the charms of the park focus on nature, wildlife, and hiking.

Specialties

Alum Rock Park has a vast history and became a San Jose Regional Park in 1872. Alum Rock Park is a great place for hikers, mountain bikers, horse back riding, pony rides, picnics, summer camps, art classes & much more. There are no dogs or pets allowed in the park. On occasion Alum Rock Park will restrict the use of BBQ's or close the park due to high fire dangers. We recommend calling the Ranger Office the day before your visit and make alternate plans for food during the summer months. Visit www.sjregistration.com for Summer Camp, Picnics and classes offered at Alum Rock Park. Alum Rock Park is open Tuesday thru Sunday from 8:00 A.M. until Sunset.