Let's go for the longer version of the Henry Cowell hike, with a twist! This one covers about 8 miles, with moderate hills and a variety of environments, from redwoods to dusty scrublands to knee-deep water. Yes, it's one of those river-crossing hikes, so break out those shorts and amphibious footwear!
Here's the late-summer twist: we'll break for lunch at the first river crossing -- after which, the co-leader will proceed to Big Rock Hole by the usual route, which doesn't require getting wet more than knee-deep; the sensible members of the group may wish to follow.
Meanwhile, the leader plans to make a right turn halfway across, and just charge right up the middle of the river (about a mile in the water), which may involve a certain amount of swimming. If you plan on taking the leader's route, pack light, don't carry anything you wouldn't want to take swimming with you, and dress for getting thoroughly wet!
As usual, bring water, lunch, sun protection, and carpool/park entrance money.
Meet at carpool point #2.
The weather forecast looks good: not too hot for the exposed hills in the morning, nor too cool for the mid-day river crossings.
Directions to LPSS carpool point #2 (Los Gatos Public Parking Lot): Exit 17 onto Saratoga Ave (Highway 9) west in Los Gatos. Go past first light (University), then take the first right into the free public parking lot. Meet near the Saratoga Ave end of the lot.