Station 1: The Hill
“Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them.” (Matthew 5:1-2)
Choose 1 of the suggested locations for the first step on your journey...
... or choose your own location! Ideally your location will be outdoors, with space to sit quietly and pray without being bothered by other people.
Alviso Marina County Park
This county park is primarily a walk around the wetlands, overlooking the southern tip of the Bay. At the walk along the South Bay Yacht Club, enjoy a slightly more isolated water outlook and bird-watching
Address:
1195 Hope Street, Alviso, CA 95002 (main entrance);
1489 Hope Street (South Bay Yacht Club side)
Benches: limited
Walking paths: available, mostly not paved
Shade: None
Parking: Parking lot and street parking
Hours: 8:00 AM to sunset
Website: https://www.sccgov.org/sites/parks/parkfinder/Pages/AlvisoMarina.aspx
What to bring: Walking shoes, shade umbrella, water, sunscreen, folding chair (optional), Bible, notebook, pencil, folding chair, printed reflection instructions
What to eat afterwards: Grab a burrito or some chile verde from Rosita's De Basilio Deli & Market which is 2 minutes drive away (5168 N 1st St, San Jose, CA 95132)
Alum Rock Park
This park is eclectic with a little of something for everybody, from wide lawns and a playground to creeks, lush plant life and 13 miles of trails. Many people go there to enjoy the great hiking trails. The ridge trails offer views out over the Santa Clara Valley.
Address:
15350 Penitencia Creek Rd., San Jose, CA 95127
Benches: available in the picnic areas
Walking paths: many walking and hiking paths
Shade: Partial shade on paths
Parking: Parking is currently free
Hours: 8:00 AM to half an hour after sunset
Restrooms: Available at Rustic Lands, Quail Hollow, Live Oak and Mineral Springs parking lots
Website:
https://www.sanjoseca.gov/Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/FacilityDirectory/ 2088/34
What to bring: Walking shoes, water, hat, sunscreen, Bible, notebook, pencil, folding chair (optional), printed reflection instructions
What to eat afterwards: Stop by for some delicious Pho from Pho Kim Long (2082 N Capitol Ave, San Jose, CA 95132)
Fasting Prayer Mountain
This private retreat site is located in the Santa Cruz mountains. The owners have opened the site for anyone to attend, and it has a multitude of places to sit, walk and pray. The whole site is dedicated for fasting and prayer, and you will find yourself praying among Christians from many cultures and backgrounds.
Address:
997 Lockhart Gulch Rd., Scotts Valley, CA 95066
Benches and seats: plentiful
Walking paths: paths for wandering, not for hiking
Shade: Lots
Parking: Parking lot
Hours: Office hours: 8:00AM to 6:00PM (reservation core time: 8AM to 10AM); there are cabins for overnight stay if you register ahead of time. There is a daily worship service at 10:30 AM.
Cost: Donations welcomed
Website:
https://www.fpmw-sv.com/
What to bring: Walking shoes, water, sunscreen, folding chair (optional), Bible, notebook, pencil, folding chair, printed reflection instructions. **Since it is dedicated for fasting, no food or drinks (except water) is permitted on the site.**
What to eat afterwards: Grab a burrito and some complimentary fresh salsa and chips from Taqueria Los Gallos (235 Mt Hermon Rd C, Scotts Valley, CA 95066)