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Get Away Now By Sarah Gaffney The southern tip of Santa Clara County holds more than 80,000 acres of wild, beautiful land that will never face the blade of the developer's bulldozer or be cut in half by a buzzing freeway. It will always be untamed and open. Henry W. Coe State Park in Morgan Hill (408.779.2728; www.coepark.parks.ca.gov) is the largest state park in Northern California. It's a year-round haven for hikers, mountain bikers, backpackers, birders, campers and picnickers and one of the best and cheapest getaways in the valley. Hiking the park's 200 miles of strenuous, sinewy trails should be avoided during the hottest summer months. There's not a lot of shade along these steep trails, but there are acres and acres of meadows, and in the spring wildflowers blanket the chaparral and oak woodlands in spectacular color. Every Sunday in the spring, the park hosts two-hour wildflower walks. For the more adventurous types, the park's Saturday Discovery Hikes are led by an experienced guide and cover up to 12 miles of the park's vast wilderness. Once home to the Ohlone Indians, the park's wild lands are still roaming habitat for mountain lions. It's a great place for camping and even better for away-from-it-all backpacking. Deep in the park's interior, it's easy to feel a million--not just 40--miles away from Silicon Valley. Streamlined Living: Pare down and live simply. Put Up Yer Dukes: Don't get mad, get even. Cruising: Transit made simple. Soul Relief: Free your inner self.     Make Your Own Blockbuster     Non-Profiteer     Make Your Head Glow     Digital Rocker Get in on the Gold Rush: Grab a fistful of cash and join the party. Domestic Bliss: Make your house into a home. [ San Jose | Metroactive Central | Archives ]