About Alum Rock

It is named after a rock that was believed to alum in Alum Rock Park.

The Census Bureau reports it has 1.2 square miles, all land. 

History

Alum Rock, as with most areas in Santa Clara County, was mostly land growing fruit orchards during the 19^th century and into the 20^th century.

Along came developers in the 1940’ and 1050s building homes which formed the Alum Rock community. At that time, a passenger railroad and Alum Rock Avenue passed through the town directing the way to Alum Rock Park.

School Districts serving the area are Alum Rock Union School District and the East Side Union High School District.

Alum Rock Park

Alum Rock Park was founded in 1972. It is the oldest municipal park in the State of California, as well as among the largest parks in the country. Located in a canyon in the Diablo Range foothills, the 720 acres provides visitors with natural beauty and activities like bicycling, horseback riding, hiking, picnicking, and just leisurely relaxing.

There is no shortage of barbecue pits and picnic tables. Restrooms and water fountains may be found in most picnic area.

Hikers are welcome on all 13 miles of trials, which include three miles of bicycle trails, and six miles of horse trials. Cyclists and horses must remain on designated trials.

Operated by the Valley Transportation Authority (“VTA”), the Alum Rock Transit Center provides bus and light rail service. The VTA light rail stations are:

·        Alum Rock

·        Penitencia Creek

·        McKee