Open Space

The Garrod family began their commitment to Open Space when Vince Garrod helped found the Mid-Peninsula Regional Open Space District in 1972.

Vince saw the rapid development along the Santa Clara Valley result in the loss of farmland and open space, and wanted to ensure the preservation of the trails and bridle paths for the public to enjoy, and for the land to continue to have the option of being useful for farming if need be. He went on to serve as a Board member and Board President of the Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST), as a member of the Santa Clara County Agricultural Advisory Committee, represented the County’s agricultural interests during the formation of the Santa Clara Valley Water District, and served on the Black Mountain Resource Conservation District (now known as the Loma Prieta Resource Conservation District). In 1980, the Garrod Family, led by Vince Garrod, transferred 120 acres of their 240 acres to the District as an addition to Fremont Older Open Space Preserve – including Maisie’s Peak, named for Maisie Garrod. In 1999, the Garrod family worked with the District and POST to sell below market a 40-acre forested property as an addition to Long Ridge Open Space Preserve. He also assisted the District with the purchase of the 57-acre Beatty property in 2008 at Alma Bridge Road as an addition to Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve. Jan Garrod, Vince’s son, also served on the board of POST for many years, and Andrew Bosworth, Vince’s grandson, currently serves on the POST board of directors.

Certified Organic & Sustainable

Being a responsible steward of natural resources is a key practice in Cooper-Garrod farming and winemaking methods.

As a historic family business, we are especially vested in the sustainability of our winery and vineyards, with the goal of a continuing legacy for succeeding generations.

“My sister and I had a wonderful time trail riding here. Gorgeous views of the valley and well behaved horses. After our ride we had a glass of wine and some cheese/crackers on the patio. Perfect day!”

– Lynn –

“What a beautiful trail. We loved our trail guide and good ole Smokey the horse. I had Cowboy and he was a hoot. Learned new things about the area. We’ll be going again and the wine tasting was awesome too.”

– Juan –

“We had so much fun! Our first time horseback riding ever. We took advantage of the early bird special at 8:30 morning. It included an extra half hour for the price of an hour. Our guide was great, she was knowledgeable of the property and horses.”

– Raquel –

“We have taken family trail rides as well as lesson programs here and found the people very friendly and helpful. The horses are handled much better here than some other places-the owners and employees care about the safety and well being of riders and animals. Garrod Farms is home to a very well respected equestrian team that competes world wide and has won gold medals. Top notch horse facility and check out the winery too.”

– Bjorn –

“Great place for your child to learn horseback riding. Friendly staff and awesome teachers!”

– Jenifer –

“I’ve been horseback riding for over 30 years. I’ve been to many stables. This one definetly stood out from the others. The guides were very friendly. The horses very clean and very well trained. It was my sons first time and he now wants to ride more frequently from having such a great experience and my other son that’s ridden with me for the past 14 years was really happy we went there and pointed out the same things I did. Thanks for making my family’s day a perfect one. Phoenix was the best horse.”

– Roxanne –