Morgan Hill, California is a vibrant and diverse city rich in history and culture. Tucked into the Silicon Valley between eponymous mountains, it has become home to many high-tech companies and boasts rare, exquisite Poppy Jasper as its trademark stone. Indeed, Morgan Hill is bursting with exciting stories of agricultural and industrial roots, as well as the legendary bullfight from the Murphy family atop El Toro Mountain.
9 Things to Know About Morgan Hill
Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Morgan Hill, California! Located in the southern Silicon Valley, this community is home to a variety of restaurants, wineries, farms, and natural settings. Not only that, but many high-tech companies have chosen Morgan Hill as their base – making it an exciting place to explore. With deep agricultural and industrial roots, Morgan Hill is a unique city full of fascinating stories. Learn more with 9 Things to Know About Morgan Hill!
Exploring El Toro Peak
El Toro Peak, situated between the Diablo and Santa Cruz Mountain ranges, is often mistaken for Morgan Hill. The peak’s true name is El Toro Mountain or Murphy’s Peak, alluding to the legend of a bullfight that once took place atop the mountain and to the California pioneers of the Murphy family. Though hiking the trail at El Toro Peak is not allowed due to it being on private property, Morgan Hill provides many other wonderful trails to explore!
A Symbol of Morgan Hill: Poppy Jasper
Morgan Hill is renowned for its rare and exquisite Poppy Jasper, boasting an array of warm reds, oranges, yellows, and browns that create a one-of-a-kind pattern. This remarkable stone has become so iconic to the area that it has inspired the annual Poppy Jasper International Film Festival each April. Truly, Poppy Jasper’s importance to Morgan Hill is highlighted by the Downtown Morgan Hill parking garage staircase which is enclosed in glass panels depicting this beautiful stone, creating an awe-inspiring amber glow on the 3rd Street plaza at night.
Morgan Hill: The Mushroom Capital
Morgan Hill is proud to be known as “the mushroom capital” and celebrates this fungus with its annual Mushroom Mardi Gras. South Valley Mushroom Farm has been growing mushrooms in Morgan Hill since the 1960s, while also running a farmstand and apiary. Monterey Mushrooms, the largest commercial grower of fresh mushrooms in North America, is located in north Morgan Hill and ships an impressive 200 million pounds of mushrooms each year! This is a testament to the hardworking locals who have made Morgan Hill a major player in the mushroom industry.
Stonefruit Orchards:
Morgan Hill’s stonefruit orchards provide an abundance of fresh, delectable fruits. The Santa Clara Valley AVA, Sarah’s Vineyard, is home to some of the West Coast’s most renowned orchards. Andy’s Orchard stands out with its impressive selection of premium heirloom fruits, while U-Pick Orchards hosts an exciting annual event that invites visitors to pick their cherries during the 3-5 week harvest period from May to June. With these options, it’s no wonder why Morgan Hill is a popular destination for those looking for farm-fresh produce.
Morgan Hill is known for its bustling high-tech sector, but it still proudly holds onto its agricultural roots. The Santa Clara Valley AVA, Sarah’s Vineyard, is home to some of the West Coast’s most renowned stonefruit orchards, offering a bounty of cherries, apricots, plums, citrus, nuts, and olives. Andy’s Orchard stands out with its impressive selection of premium heirloom fruits, while U-Pick Orchards hosts an exciting annual event that invites visitors to pick their cherries during the 3-5 week harvest period from May to June.
Exploring the Santa Clara Valley Wine Trail
The Santa Clara Valley AVA is a renowned wine region in Morgan Hill, home to around 35 wineries stretching from the Eastern Santa Cruz Mountains to the foothills of the Diablo Range. Local lore suggests that this area was originally discovered by wild grapes, known as Vitis California, which is why many sites bear the name “Uvas.” In recent years, the Santa Clara Valley Wine Trail has become a celebrated destination for those seeking a unique combination of old-world flair and modern sophistication. Boasting a variety of microclimates due to its coastal and inland influences, visitors can enjoy a range of varietals at the laid-back wineries, all while taking in the family-friendly atmosphere.
Premier Sports Facilities
The Morgan Hill Outdoor Sports Center and the Morgan Hill Aquatics Center are two premier sports facilities located in Northern California. The Outdoor Sports Center consists of 12 fields and hosts the 2021 CrossFit Games, while the Aquatics Center features a record-breaking pool that hosts major Western swim meets. These facilities provide a family-oriented atmosphere and support local youth sports programs, creating an ideal environment for athletes to hone their skills. In addition, they are conveniently located across the street from several lodging accommodations.
Home to Specialized Bicycle Components and Bike Therapy
Morgan Hill is proud to be the home of Specialized Bicycle Components, a leading designer, manufacturer, and marketer of bicycles, cycling equipment, accessories, and apparel. With its impressive corporate presence in the area, it is no surprise that cycling has become an esteemed hobby for many Morgan Hill residents and visitors alike. It is also well known for its picturesque winding backroads and rugged trails, which make it an excellent destination for both road and mountain biking. The local bike shop, Bike Therapy, has been consistently awarded Platinum in the Bicycle Retailer “Best Bike Shop” awards for several consecutive years, recognizing their commitment to community cycling advocacy and free group rides. Morgan Hill has twice been a stop on the Amgen Tour de California, further demonstrating its place as a premier cycling destination.
Diverse Range of Dining Experiences
Morgan Hill is a Bay Area culinary hot spot, boasting over 100 restaurants and an ever-growing downtown. With many of the eateries being independently owned, it provides a diverse range of unique and high-quality dining experiences. You can find anything from casual dine-in establishments to upscale eateries and hip pop-ups. In addition, local wines, beers, hard ciders, and handcrafted cocktails are readily available. Foodies in search of a great meal will want to visit Morgan Hill for a truly unforgettable experience.
Weekend Warrior Itinerary
Start your trip off with a bang by exploring some of the outdoor activities that Morgan Hill has to offer. Go on a hike in Coyote Creek Regional Park, take a kayak or stand-up paddleboard tour of Uvas Reservoir, or explore the trails and terrain at Mt. Madonna County Park. After a day of adventure, refuel at one of the many delicious restaurants in town. Spend your nights at one of the charming bed and breakfasts or boutique hotels. On Sunday, check out the Gilroy Premium Outlets for some retail therapy before heading home.
As a vibrant city located in the Silicon Valley, Morgan Hill is full of interesting experiences and fascinating history. From discovering Poppy Jasper stones to seeing the renowned El Toro Peak from afar, this lively culture has something for everyone. With major technology hubs as well as numerous attractions, this small city packs plenty of interesting knowledge and activities to explore. Morgan Hill encapsulates this allure, from ancient roots to modern-day progress, providing remarkable areas worth visiting!
