San Antonio Valley (elevation 2,000 feet):

This a fine remote dark site with great horizons, but can be dewy. Light domes to the west from San Jose and central Bay Area. Excellent conditions on dry nights. Very peaceful.

From Interstate 580 in Livermore, take South Vasco Road south to its termination at Tesla Road, then turn right (west) on Tesla and proceed about 1 mile. Turn left (south) on Mines Road. At about 3.5 miles, turn left again and continue on Mines Road (Del Valle Road continues straight and up a large hill).

Continue approximately 24.5 miles farther on Mines Road (be careful on this road - it is narrow and winding along most of its length, and can have unexpected minor road damage due to slides and arroyo crossings). At the junction of Mines Road/Del Puerto Canyon Road/Mt. Hamilton Road, continue straight (south) on Mt. Hamilton Road another 1.75 miles. On the left is a wide driveway apron with a gate. On evenings with scheduled events, the gate will be unlocked by sunset or before; simply slide the gate latch open, proceed through (closing the gate behind) and drive east on the gravel road about 0.5 mile until you are through the cattle guard. This is the normal observing site, or another site about 0.2 mile farther beyond straight past the grove of trees.

Notes: No facilities (last gas/restroom at I-580/Vasco Road). This is private land, and we need to treat the area and residents with respect (as they do us). OK to sleep over in tent or vehicle. Dress warmly.