Bill and I off-loaded our bikes across from the San Tomas Aquino Trail head which offers a paved route approximately 5 miles through Santa Clara along its namesake waterway. We made a stop at Levi’s Stadium, then onto to Sunnyvale Baylands Park where we were struck by acres of native grasses, open meadows, a protected Wetlands Preserve providing habitat for plants and wildlife. Bill and I road up and down series of dirt slopes that felt like skiing (photo), before continuing on to Alviso.
Alviso is a peaceful residential community known for natural areas along San Francisco Bay like Alviso Marina County Park, that reflect the area’s historic past. First known to the Ohlone Indians, it is now known as a popular birdwatching spot with paths and boardwalks, and Baylands Park, another wetlands reserve.
Nearby, was the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge, which is the first urban wildlife refuge in the United States. The refuge includes 30,000 acres of open bay, salt ponds, salt marsh, mudflats and a ghost town, called Drawbridge which is accessible via the Union Pacific Railroad Tracks that draws many curious travelers. Drawbridge is also home to diverse species, including shorebirds, seals and foxes. If were so inclined, one could shove away from land and float through the reeds on a kayak from Lain’s Bates and Rentals, enjoying the marsh birds and narrow waterways, that connect into the San Francisco Bay. We simply road along the shoreline on wooden docks.
Alviso also has a number of homestyle Mexican restaurants including Rosita’s Restaurant which is a mainstay in the area. The exterior has charm, boasting a fenced—in patio with outdoor seating. We were amazed that there is a grand looking crystal chandelier hanging from the a wooden beam in the lovely rose garden. We were surprised it hadn’t been stolen. Perhaps it was because the Blessed Mother of the Catholic Shrine was the devout owner, Rosita. Bill had a fish taco and I had a Chicken Tostada with rice and refried beans.
We had a nice breeze and the wind chimes echoed gently. If there a hammock at Rosita’s I could have easily taken a siesta. Enjoy the photos!
