Summary:
Grant Ranch is great if you enjoy challenging climbs, wide open panoramic views of the bay area, wildflowers in the spring, super fast sketchy and rutted fireroad descents, solitude, intervals, did I mention climbing and more climbing, a few prime singletrack sections, oak trees, sycamore trees, buckeye trees, bay laurels and pine trees, cows, pigs, coyote, squirrels, more cows and more climbs. This is an awesome park with a different flavor than what you'll get in the forested singletrack of the Soquel Demonstration forest. Admire this park for what it is and not what it isn't and you'll be thrilled by what you are so privileged to take in!
Recommended Route:
I like to go to Antler Point and take in one of the most majestic views that this park has to offer. Start at the Grant Lake Parking lot, climb up Halls Valley trail to the intersection of Canada de Pala and head north along the ridge and climb some more to the intersection of Canada de Pala and Pala Seca trails, climb some more and get to the Antler Point intersection and bear right for another 1/4 mile out to Antler Point...here's a little video, since a picture is worth a thousands words, a video is worth a million, but even still doesn't do this precious gem of a park due justice. Enjoy and be inspired...you're in for a helluva ride and a terrific lung busting, quad stressing workout!
http://gallery.me.com/ronaclan/100819
