The outdoor activities are numerous at Ed R. Levin County Park, whether you prefer hanging out by Sandy Wool Lake or…More hang gliding.  This 1,541-acre site is the largest green space in Milpitas, and offers scenic views, including one from Monument Peak (elevation 2,594 feet). The park's one mountain-bike trail, Agua Caliente, spans more than two miles.</p> <p>Some trails can be accessed without going through the park entrances, but for the most part, you'll stop at one of two paid entry points: Calaveras and Downing or Spring Valley (continue along Calaveras past Downing to arrive at the other entrance).  The Spring Valley side has the pond, visitor center, and ranger station, but the Sandy Wool side has the lake, hang gliding, and the Milpitas Dog Park. Parking is $6.</p> <p>Santa Clara County Parks offers occasional events at Ed Levin, such as a stroller hike, Halloween Haunt, and the Healthy Trails Challenge Hike. Rotary International partners with the park system each year to sponsor fishing events for kids at Sandy Wool Lake. Check the website for dates.  </p> <p>Alcohol is allowed at the park, with some restrictions. Dogs are only allowed off-leash on trails north of Calaveras.  The only fires allowed are charcoal fires for barbecues. Amplified music can be played at Elm group area only. Fishing is not always available. The <a href="http://dfg.ca.gov/fish/">California Department of Fish and Wildlife</a> stocks the lake with fish, but not regularly--and you need a state fishing license, which can be purchased at places like Big 5.  Swimming is not allowed. Boating is temporarily banned due to an invasive species of mussel that has spread to freshwater areas in southern California.  There are no camping or overnight stays permitted.</p> <p>Useful phone numbers:</p> <ul> <li>Group reservations for 20 or more: 408-355-2201 </li> <li>Wings of Regallo (hang gliding club): 408-946-9516</li> <li><a href="http://bayareaequestrian.net/">Horseback riding</a>: 925-484-0209</li> </ul>

The city's official dog park requires a drive to Ed R. Levin County Park, but it's worth it for the exclusive…More gathering spot of dogs and owners. The grassy play area is divided into two fenced sections--one for small dogs and the other for big ones.  There are benches for owners to sit and watch the action as their dogs run around.  Doggy bags and water fountains are available.</p> <p>Some rules for using the dog park:</p> <ul> <li>Dog handlers must be 16 years or older, otherwise accompanied by an adult.</li> <li>Dog handlers can bring in no more than two dogs into the park at one time.</li> <li>Dogs must be vaccinated and wear proof of its license.</li> <li>Dogs must respond to voice commands.</li> </ul> <p>As the city dog park is inside the Ed R. Levin County Park, enter using the the Sandy Wool Lake entrance at Calaveras and Downing. The parking fee is $6 or get an annual membership from Santa Clara County Parks for $80.  There are parking spaces directly in front of the dog park, including designated handicap parking.</p>