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A two-for-one hike along the East shore of Lake Del Valle. We'll enjoy the newly turned green hills on this moderate+ 7.7 mile, 1400 ft or challenging 10.8 mile, 2000 ft hike from the Arroyo Road Staging Area.
Both hikes start from below the dam at the Arroyo Road Staging Area onto the East Shore Trail. At the top of the hill at the Heron Bay Trail, the hikes will then split up.
The long hike continues along the East Shore Trail to Swallow Bay, returning along the single track Swallow Bay Trail and East Shore Trail.
1/4 mile after turning onto the Heron Bay Trail both hikes will stop to rest/snack overlooking the lake at the fence line before the trail descends. After the snack both hikes return via a combination of Heron Bay and East Shore Trails, taking the single track Heron Bay Trail when available.
Your choice of a moderately Challenging 7.2 mile, 1600 ft or 8.2 mile, 1700 ft hike from EBMUD Valle Vista into EBRPD Redwood Regional Park.
From Valle Vista the hike heads out the Redwood Trail to Redwood Regional where we begin a clockwise loop on East Ridge, Canyon, Stream, and Bridle Trails to short right turn on Stream Trail to our snack stop at Trails End.
After the break we head up Stream Trail searching for Ladybugs until we reach the Prince Trail, where the shorter hike ascends to the East Ridge Trail. The longer hike will proceed along Stream Trail to ascend on Eucalyptus and Phillips Loop Trails to East Ridge Trail.
Both hikes will return via East Ridge, and Redwood Trails to Valle Vista Staging Area.
Google Maps directions to Valle Vista Staging Area
Join us in the rolling Black Hills of Mt Diablo and Morgan Territory for a hike out of Finley Road at Once we make the 20 minute drive, our journey begins with a 3/4 mile walk to get to the trailhead. From there we head up Old Finley Road, right on Sulphur Springs. We will have a snack break where the two hikes split at the first Black Hills Trail junction. The short hike turns left on Black Hills Trail, left on Crestview Road, left on Amphitheater Trail and left on Walnut Trail, then a final left on Old Finley Road back to the cars. The long hike continues on Sulphur Springs, then left up Black Hills Trail #2. Turn right on Crestview Road, rejoining the short hike, left on Amphitheater Trail and left on Walnut Trail, then a final left on Old Finley Road back to the cars. The trail will be marked with flour arrows along the route. No Facilities anywhere, please stop before arriving at the carpool. No Dogs Allowed. Out-of-the-Box, after the Turkey Hike in Sierra Vista Open Space Preserve.
An upside down hike starting from the finish of Stage 4, 2011 Tour of California, atop Sierra Road in San Jose.
Your choice hike of We'll follow Kestrel, Sierra Vista, and Upper Calaveras Fault Trails to the Cutoff Trail,
where the short/long hikes take the short cut down the Cutoff Trail while the medium hike continues on Upper Calaveras Trail.
All hikes will continue down Lower Calaveras Fault Trail to the Upper Penitencia Creek crossing where the short/medium hikes will snack.
The long hike continues on to the South, ascending 1000 ft. in 1.8 miles on the Lower Calaveras Fault Trail to their snack spot, before returning the same way.
Finally all hikes will return from Upper Penitencia Creek to the parking lot on Lower Calaveras Fault, Sierra Vista, and Kestrel Trails.
Any one interested in carpooling please meet at the Mission Blvd Park-n-Ride in Fremont 715 Mission Rd.
I plan on departing sharply at 8:45an for the 1/2 hour drive to the Sierra Road Staging Area.
Join Steve for his Mount Diablo Interpretive Association (MDIA) hike: a moderately challenging 7 mile/1600 foot elevation gain hike from Macedo Ranch in Alamo. Plan on 2.5 to 3.5 hours at a moderate pace. We'll be working off those Turkey Day calories! Please bring $6 exact change for parking or $5 for 62+. Wear layered clothing and bring plenty of water. Be prepared for mud and poison oak. Any rain cancels. No Dogs. Visit mdia.org for more info. A 6.7 mile, 1700 ft or longer 7.7 mile, 1800 ft out-and-back hike along the Lafayette Ridge Trail.
Starting from the Lafayette Ridge Staging Area we take Lafayette Ridge, and Springhill Trails to the Springhill Staging area for a snack break.
After the break the short hike returns via the same route, while the longer/harder hike ascends to Lafayette Ridge via the Buckeye Ranch Trail to return via Lafayette Ridge Trail.
Join us in the rolling green hills of Black Diamond Mines starting at Our journey begins up Nortonville Trail, left on Manhattan Canyon Trail, left to Chapparal Loop and right after the bridge. Follow up the hill to the Ridge Trail, turning left. Once at the top we will descend into the next valley on Stewartville Trail to the Stewartville Backpack Camp. Short hikers will rest here before returning on Stewartville Trail and then up the steep Miners Trail, rejoining Stewartville Trail, then right on Carbondale, left on Saddle, left on River View and right back to the parking area. The long hike continues from the backpack camp right on Upper Oil Canyon and on up to the tower of power lookout for a break. Retrace back and turn right on Oil Canyon, left past the pond on Lower Oil Canyon, left to stay on Lower Oil, left on Stewartville past the backpack camp. Right on Miner's Trail, right on up Stewartville, veer leftish through the gate to stay on Stewartville on back to the parking area. The trail will be marked with flour arrows along the route. Facilities at trail head and backpack camp. Dogs welcome. A week of rain and a chance of showers Sunday sends us to Oakland for some tree cover. Starting at Hike begins on Sinawik Loop, left up the loop, left onto Sanborn Road to the Lookout. Loop around the left of the lookout and down the trail looping to the right. Stay left down to the creek. Cross the creek and head back up toward the Sinawik Cabin ruins. Hang a left on Sunset then right on Castle Rock Trail. Stay on the trail making a sharp right up to the top of the hill. At the T-junction, turn left and across Skyline Blvd. continuing on the trail to the Moon Gate. The hike continues right on West Ridge Trail in Redwood Regional passing by Chabot Science Center then making a left to drop down to the Redwood Bowl. Turn right and head across the meadow to the junction and stay straight right onto Graham Trail. Drop down onto the Manzanita Loop Trail at Roberts Recreation Area and stop at the picnic area at Manzanita for a break. Hike continues across the sports field and looping around to the right pausing at the Blossom Rock Trees Monument, then continuing on up past the pool and onto Roberts Ridge Trail. Continue up to a connector trail to the left toward Rotary Day Camp. Turn left beyond the camp down to Skyline, crossing the street and following Big Trees Trail to the right. Near the restrooms, turn left to stay on Big Trees. At the T-junction make a left on Sequoia-Bayview. At another T-junction, turn right on Sunset Trail. Turn right on Fern Ravine and take it back up the hill to the restrooms on the roadway. Follow the road toward the Horse Arena and along Seqouia-Bayview, then right on Chapparal Trail. Continue straight/left to Sunset Trail, hard right on the Upper Sinawik along the creek, then cross the creek and make a hard left to the Lower Sinawik Trail on the other side of the creek. Make a right back up to the roadway where we started. The trail will be marked with flour arrows along the route. A moderate 6.3 mile, 1100 ft, or challenging 7.3, 1500 ft hike in EBRPD Redwood Regional Park.
We'll start from Wayside Parking lot and head South to the Fish Ladder, then follow Bridle and Stream Trails to Tres Sendas Trail.
At the intersection with Starflower Trail the hikes will split up with the longer hike proceeding up Tres Sendas to French Trail. The shorter, wiser hike will ascend Starflower to French Trail.
Both hikes follow French Trail to Chown Trail to descend to Stream Trail. Weather permitting we'll stop to snack at Trails end. The remainder of the hike follows Stream Trail back to our cars.
Please Note: We are starting from the large Wayside lot on your left, just past the fish ladder.
A high probability for rain over the weekend dictates this OUT-and-BACK hike on Mt. Diablo starting at Hike begins with a quick out-and-back hike down Camp Force Trail to the Camp Force Overlook and the Boy Scout dedication memorial. We then return back to take Knobcone Pt., left on Curry Canyon Road following it for several miles, staying right at all junctions. About 3/4 mile down, we will detour to the right to visit some Native American mortars, then continue along. When we finally reach the park boundary, we will u-turn until we reach Curry Cave Road, making a left. At a hairpin junction, make a left and continue to the gate, then another u-turn to the junction. I hope to find a spot to take a rest stop here. The hike continues back down Curry Cave Road and left to take Curry Canyon Road all the way back the way you came ending with a right on Knobcone Point to the parking area. The long hike will detour with a right on Sheepherder Springs taking a single track all the way to the end where there is a marker for the springs. Retrace your steps to Curry Canyon, right to Knobcone, right to parking area. The trail will be marked with flour arrows along the route. Sorry, No Dogs Allowed. A moderate to challenging short 6.7 mile, 1100 ft or 9 mile, 2000 ft hike in CCWD's Los Vaqueros Reservoir and Watershed.
From the John Muir Interpretive Center Parking Lot we'll cross the road and take Kellogg Creek, Walnut, and Eagle Ridge Trails to a snack stop atop Eagle Ridge. We then continue on Eagle Ridge, Vista Grande, Mariposa Canyon, and Walnut Trails back to the Crest Trail.
The shorter hike will now return to the parking lot while the longer hike ascends on Crest Trail to return via the Interpretive Trail.
Please allow enough time to pay the Park fee of $4 or $6 at the Ranger Station.
After paying your Park Fee please proceed to the John Muir Interpretive Center Parking Lot.
Please Note: Dogs are not allowed in Los Vaqueros.
Join us for a loopy hike at Hike begins on Arbolado Drive down to left on Paraiso Trail, right on Ohlone, right on Paraiso, left on Manzanita, straight onto single track Lime Ridge Trail, right onto Ridge Trail, left on Ohlone, left on Buckeye, left on Lime Ridge Trail and left to a bench above the intersection for a break. Head back making a right on Manzanita, right on Buckeye, middle trail onto Lime Ridge Trail. At the junction with Ohlone, hikes will split. The short hike will turn left on Ohlone and follow it all the way back to the start. The long hike will continue on Lime Ridge Trail, through the tunnel, left on Bayberry Scenic Tr, past Bayberry Pond, left through gate onto Ygnacio Canal Trail, through the tunnel, left on Ygnacio Canal Trail Link up the hill, right on Ohlone and follow it back to the start. The trail will be marked with flour arrows along the route. Sorry, No Dogs Allowed in this Wildlife Preserve. IGNORE TRAIL NOTES BELOW. A Challenging 7.3 or 7.8 mile/2300 ft hike of Mount Diablo's Eagle Peak.
The route will be Donner Canyon, Murchio Road, Back Creek Road, Bruce Lee Road, Coulter Pine, Mitchell Rock and Eagle Peak Trails to Eagle Peak for a snack break.
We will then return via Murchio Gap on the Eagle Peak Trail. From here the two hikes diverge with the shorter hike descending directly on Back Creek Trail.
The longer hike continues on Meridian Ridge Road, and Meridian Point Trails to Back Creek to rejoin the shorter hike.
Both hikes return to Regency Gate via Back Creek, Murchio Road, and Donner Canyon Road Trails.
The Regency Drive Entrance is located at Google Maps directions
Join us for a Fall? hike at Hike begins on Redtail staying left past Deer Canyon, left on Brandon, right on Towhee. The hikes will split near the entrance kiosk. The short hike will continue past Live Oak, cross the road before the kiosk to pickup Quail Trail. Stay on Quail past Towhee. At a T junction, make a right on Quail around a hairpin turn and up to a road. Turn right on the road (Lost Ridge) and continue a short distance to Hawk Ridge Group Camp where both hikes will break. Head back in the direction you came down the road, but find Two Rocks trail to the left. At the first junction take the trail to the left (No Name) near the Two Rocks campsite. Take your next right onto Mirador. At the junction turn left on Brandon and stay on Brandon passing two junctions with Loggers Loop on the left. Stay on Brandon to the right passing Escondido to the left. Look for a hairpin right turn up the hill which is Deer Canyon. Take this to the top, then left on Redtail across the road and following the original route back to the cars. The long hike turns left at the split onto Live Oak, then right onto Honker Bay before the bridge. Turn right on a single track Huck's Trail, left on a connector trail and then following the roadway past the Family Campground, past Towhee on the right. Turn right on Columbine and follow it for 2 miles passing Quail on the right but making the next right on Two Rocks Trail. Break at Hawk Ridge and then follow the Short Hike Route above. The medium hike will continue straight on Brandon past the Deer Canyon turnoff making the next right on Cottontail, then right at the top into the parking area at the start. Detailed directions and maps will be available and the trail will be marked along the route. Dogs allowed. Join us for a peaceful hike at Hike begins on Old San Pablo Road, connector to Eagle's Nest, across San Pablo Dam Road, Eagle's Nest, right on paved Nimitz Way. Short hike will continue .5 miles past Havey Canyon Trail to the Nike Missile Site on your right and up a slight dirt trail. Short hike retraces your route all the way back to the reservoir. The long hike turns left on Havey Canyon, left on Wildcat Creek and pauses near Jewel Lake for a rest stop. We will continue left on Peak Trail, staying left. We will take another break at the Peace Grove Lookout for some wonderfully spectacular 360 views of the east bay and the city skyline! Bring your binoculars and cameras. Hike continues back a short distance and then right on Peak then right on No Name Trail #1. Pass through the gate and turn left on No Name Trail #2. Veer right after the bench to join Conlon Trail. Turn left on paved Nimitz Way, then right through the gate back on Eagle's Nest and retrace your route to the cars. Please join me afterwards for a picnic lunch overlooking the reservoir. Bring something to sit on and something to munch on. I will have some dishes to share and some cold water to sip on. Should be a lovely day! Detailed directions and maps will be available and the trail will be marked along the route. Sorry, NO DOGS. Facilities at the trailhead. See you at Your choice of a moderate 6.7 mile,1500 ft or a longer 7.4 mile, 1800 ft hike in the Redwoods of EBRPD Redwood Regional Park.
The route will be Canyon, East Ridge, Phillips Loop, Eucalyptus, and Stream Trails to a short snack stop in the Redwoods on Redwood Creek at Tres Sendas Trail.
After the snack both hikes start up Tres Sendas Trail, the short hike will turn left on Starflower Trail up to French Trail. The longer hike will head up Tres Sendas to French Trail for an additional .7 mile/300 ft.
Both hikes proceed along French Trail to Chown, Bridle and Stream Trails to return to the parking lot.
Please enter the park at the Redwood Gate and proceed all the way to the Canyon Meadow Staging area at the end. Google Map Directions
Join us for a somewhat laborious hike the day before Labor Day at Hike begins on Volvon, left to stay on Volvon, right on Blue Oak, right on Miwok, left on Manzanita, right on Valley View, right on Volvon Loop. We'll take a break near a stone outcrop overlooking the Delta. Both hikes continue on Volvon Loop, the short hike will continue straight then left on Volvon, then left on Blue Oak, right on Hummingbird, left on Volvon, right on Prairie Falcon, right for a very short time on Volvon, then a quick right on Condor. Cross the bridge then right to the gate and left after the gate to stay below the pond and on back to the parking lot. The long hike continues on Volvon Loop from the break, hard right on Eagle, right on Hog Canyon to the boundary. Retrace your steps back to where the short hike split and follow directions for the short hike return. Detailed directions and maps will be available and the trail will be marked along the route. DOGS welcome. Facilities at the trailhead. Pit toilets available throughout the park. See you at A moderate+ 7.3 mile, 1300 ft ele. gain hike from Finley Rd up to Oyster Point. This mostly shaded out-and-back hike takes us up into the Black Hills above Blackhawk on a beautiful single track trail. For extra credit (0.5 mile, +300 ft), one can climb up to the marker post.
This out-and-back route follows Finley Rd., Old Finley Rd., and Oyster Point Trails to the intersection in the meadow below Oyster Point.
Time permitting, and a sense of adventure, we may explore the end of Jackass Canyon on our return trip.
Please note: Tassajara Road is closed North of Fallon Rd to Windemere Pkwy. Please use this Google Maps link for directions from the South(I580).
Join us for a Hike begins on Old Briones Road, left on Black Oak, right on Mott Peak, right on Briones Crest, left on Lagoon, left to stay on Lagoon, another left to stay on Lagoon. All hikers will take a rest break at the top of the hill after a long climb. Hike continues right on Briones Crest Trail. At marker #13 the hikes diverge. The short hike continues straight on down Briones Crest until the end, then left by Oak Grove Picnic area and back to the parking area. The medium and long hikes turn right on Deer Creek Tr., right on Pereira to a junction. The long hike continues straight on an out back to the park boundary. The medium hike turns left then right following the Ivan Dickson loop trail out and back to the Ivan Dickson Memorial. Return to the junction and turn right on Pereira, then right on Deer Creek Tr., until the end where you turn left and head toward Oak Grove Picnic area and on to the parking area. Detailed directions and maps will be available and the trail will be marked along the route. DOGS welcome. Facilities at the trailhead only. See you at Your choice of a Challenging 6.4 mile, 2100 ft, or moderate 4.6 mile, 1100ft hike up to EBRPD Las Trampas Rocky Ridge.
This two-for-one hike heads out on Bollinger Creek Loop, Elderberry, and Rocky Ridge View Trails to the Ridge where the longer hike will descend to Devil's Hole on the Devil's Hole Trail before ascending on the Sycamore Trail.
The shorter hike will continue on Rocky Ridge View past the Sycamore Trail.
Once back on the ridge both groups will converge on the Rocky Ridge View Trail before descending to the parking lot.
Google Maps link to Las Trampas Bollinger Canyon Staging Area
Join us for an Hike begins on Wall Point Rd., left on Briones-Mt. Diablo Trail. The medium/long hikes diverge at Little Yosemite for a 1.5 mile out and back staying on Briones-Mt. Diablo, left on China Wall Rd., past the wall itself all the way to the park boundary, then retrace back to Little Yosemite. All hikers will continue on Little Yosemite Tr., through the gate into EBRPD, right on Stage Rd through the gate into MDSP. Hike continues on Stage Rd., right on Barbecue Terrace, right on Secret Trail and right on Wall Point Road. All hikers will break just up the road at Wall Point. After the break, all hikers continue down Wall Point Rd. The long hike turns left on Emmons Canyon Rd., a .8 mile/400' out and back slog down a steep canyon to the park boundary and back to rejoin the other hikers. All hikers continue down Wall Point Rd., making left turns all the way back to Macedo Ranch. Parking is $6, please bring exact change! Detailed directions and maps will be available and the trail will be marked along the route. Facilities at the trailhead only, NO DOGS allowed in Mount Diablo State Park. See you at A triple choice hike from Oakland's Dimond Park along Sausal Creek into Joaquin Miller Park. your choices are The route is Dimond Canyon, Old Canon, Dimond Canyon, and Bridgeview Trails to Monterey Blvd where we cross under SR13 to JM Court. Then we follow Palos Colorados, and Sinawik Trails to a snack stop at Lookout Point in Joaquin Miller. The Short hike will retrace their steps back to Dimond Park.
The Medium and Long hikes do the same until diverging on Sinawik Loop Trail to descend to Palo Seco Creek further upstream. The Medium hike will make a quick uturn to their left along the creek on Sinawik Trail back to Palos Colorados Trail to retrace their steps.
The Long hike will cross over the creek and turn left on Sunset Trail to ascend on Sunset Loop, and Wild Rose Trails to Sequoia Bayview Trail. We'll then turn left on Sequoia Bayview, and Chaparral Trails back to a right turn on Sunset Trail to return to Palos Colorados Trail to retrace out inbound route.
Please Park on the street near the Entrance (Google Maps) and meet near the restrooms within the park.
Join us on another hot day inland for a Hike begins on Redtail Trail, right on Grass Valley, left on Ranch Trail, left on Goldenrod, left down Buckeye Trail to Bort Meadow for the short hike rest stop. All hikers continue on Brandon trail to the Stone Bridge where the long hikers will have a rest stop. Crossing the Stone Bridge and continuing up Brandon Trail, the short hike will turn left on Cottontail and right on Redtail Trail to the parking lot. The long hike continues past Cottontail on Brandon, right on Escondido, left on Brandon and a sharp right on up the steep Deer Canyon. We will turn left on Redtail and follow it back down to the parking lot. Detailed directions and maps will be available for both hikes, and the trail will be marked along the route. There are no facilities at the trailhead, there are restrooms at Bort Meadow about 4 miles into the hike. Please allow plenty of time to make the drive safely down winding Redwood Road! See you at Your choice of a 8 mile, 1600ft or 9 mile, 1800ft hike in EBRPD Redwood Regional Park.
From the large Wayside Parking lot we head down to the Fish Ladder to take the Golden Spike, Montiero, Dunn, and Graham Trails up to the Redwood Bowl for our snack stop.
After our break we'll head back on the West Ridge, Madrone, and French Trails to the Mill Trail where the hikes diverge. The shorter, 8 mile, hike descends on Mill and Stream Trails to the bottom of Chown Trail to pick up the start of the Bridle Trail.
The longer, 9 mile, hike continues on French Trail to descend on the Chown Trail to the Bridle Trail.
Both hikes will proceed along the Bridle Trail to the Fish Ladder back to the parking lot.
Note: No Fee on weekdays. Join us Hike begins on Old Briones at the top of the upper parking area, right at the fork on Ivan Dickson/Old Briones, left on Crescent Ridge past the Archery Range, left on Briones Crest, straight onto Sunrise, right on Buckeye Ranch. We will cross over the creek, then right on Lower Buckeye Ranch which makes a hairpin turn to the right, then a sharp left to stay on Buckeye Ranch at which point we will ascend a very steep portion. Turn right to ascend the super steep Lafayette Ridge Tr. Turn left at the top on Russell Peak Tr. and ascend another hill to the top where all hikers will turn left on an unsigned single track up a small hill to a picnic table to take their rest break and enjoy the views. Short hikers will turn back here, following the route described below. Long hikers continue on Russell Peak, left on Mariposa looping around right on a paved road and right to stay on Mariposa. At the end, turn right on Russell Peak Tr. Continue left on Russell Peak Tr. returning to Russell Peak. All hikers continue straight down Russell Peak which becomes Briones Crest, left on Seaborg, take your first left on the lovely shaded Bear Creek Trail (look for Homestead Valley camping area) back to the parking area. Dogs welcome for $2 fee. Detailed maps will be available and the route will be marked with flour arrows along the way. IGNORE TRAIL NOTES BELOW. A moderate+ 7.3 mile, 1500 ft. hike from Sibley, through Huckleberry to Redwood Regional Park. Starting from the restrooms in Sibley we head out on the Bay Area Ridge Trail along Lower Huckleberry Path into Redwood Regional Park. Then our route continues on East Ridge, West Ridge, French, and Tres Sendas Trails down to a snack stop. We'll return on Stream, Eucalyptus, Phillips Loop, and East Ridge Trails to the Bay Area Ridge Trail through Huckleberry on the Upper Huckleberry Trail. After passing through the Huckleberry Staging area we complete the hike along Skyline road into Sibley. Note: The directions below are not the best. Please us this Google Maps link for directions to EBRPD Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve. For the Luddites: We've been doing some challenging hikes the past few weeks, let's slow it down a bit for a relaxing out and back hike through the lovely Cull Canyon. This is a moderate 7 mile/1200' hike on the Chabot to Garin/Bay Area Ridge Trail which hugs a riparian creek bed a majority of the way. Those who wish to hike a little further will have the opportunity to do so to be announced on hike day. Dogs allowed only on the shorter portion, no dogs allowed beyond EBMUD gate. Flour arrows will guide your way and maps will be available. Facilities at the trailhead only. A two-for-one hike of Mount Diablo's Eagle Peak. Your choice of The route will be Back Creek Road, Bruce Lee Road, Coulter Pine, and Eagle Peak Trails to Eagle Peak for a snack break.
We will then head back down the mountain on Eagle Peak, Meridian Ridge Road, and Back Creek Trails. The shorter hike continues to Murchio Road, and Donner Canyon Road Trails to complete the hike.
The Longer hike will split off at the Tick Wood intersection to return via Tick Wood, Donner Canyon Road, Hetherrington, and Donner Canyon Road Trails to complete the hike.
Here is a Google Maps link to Regency Gate.
As the summer pattern sets in around the inland valleys, we move west to the bay. Join us for a Three Park Experience on either a shorter moderate+ 7 mile/1500' or a longer challenging 9 mile/1900'. We will be starting in Joaquin Miller, crossing into Redwood, briefly through Roberts and back through Joaquin Miller again as we seek shelter from the sun amongst the redwoods. We will meet at Upper Meadow which is 100 feet down the trail at the first yellow gate at the foot of Sanborn Rd at Joaquin Miller Rd. Look for the EBCHG and arrows on the pavement to guide you there. It will be closer to park along Joaquin Miller, but you can also walk down from the Ranger Station parking area. Route will be Sunset Tr, right on Palos Colorados, across and up Skyline Blvd., veer left on Dunn Trail, veer right on Dunn Trail, veer left on No Name #1, left on Dunn, left on Golden Spike, right on Montiero, veer left on Golden Spike, right/left to stay on Golden Spike, straight and left near Equestrian Ctr. to stay on Golden Spike, left on Toyon. All hikers will break near the top of Toyon at a rock outcrop amidst the shade (look for the X). Hike continues left on West Ridge, left on Baccharis, left on West Ridge, left at Redwood Bowl on West Ridge, left to PAL camp, right to Staging Area, through parking area, across Skyline Blvd., straight on Castle Park, left to Horse Arena, right on roadway past restrooms, left on No Name Road, left on Wild Rose Tr., right on Sunset Loop. Short hike will turn left on Sunset Trail, right over bridge to Sinawik, a quick left then right up connector trail to Sanborn Rd. Turn left to return to Joaquin Miller Rd. Long hike turns right on Sunset Tr., veer left on Upper Sinawik along creek, straight onto Palos Colorados single track. Follow the trail .7 miles to its terminus and then turn around and come back. Cross the creek and veer right on Lower Sinawik then make two right turns and up the No Name connector trail to Sanborn Rd. Turn left to return to Joaquin Miller Rd. Dogs welcome in all three parks, restrooms available at J.M. Ranger Sttn and midway at the Horse Arena. As usual, trails will be marked with flour arrows to guide your way and detailed maps are available.
IGNORE TRAIL NOTES BELOW Your choice of a Leaving from the MacDonald Staging Area on MacDonald, Grass Valley, Brandon, Horseshoe, and Goldenrod Trails, the short route descends on Buckeye Trail to Bort Meadow for our snack stop.
The Longer hikes continue on Goldenrod Trail to descend on Ranch Trail to Bort Meadow. The extra long hike will head North on an out-and-back to the end of Goldenrod Trail before the Ranch Trail descent.
After our snack break, we'll head back on Grass VAlley and MacDonald Trails to the start.
Please note: There is limited parking at the MacDonald Staging Area. More parking is available to the West at Big Bear Staging Area.
Join us for Memorial (Sun)day as we explore the canyons and ridges around Rock City on Mount Diablo. A hiker's choice of a moderate 7.2 mile/1800' or a moderate+ 8.6/2000' climb from Curry Point down to the entrance gate and back up. Join me as I mark another 4 miles off my quest to hike all 172 miles on Mt Diablo...I'll bet a couple of the trails will be new to you as well! We will be meeting at the Curry Point pullout as well as carpooling in from the Danville Park & Ride. The hike will begin at 9:30, however, if you would like to carpool, please meet at the Danville Park & Ride at the Sycamore Valley Rd East offramp from I-680 at 8:30. Parking may be limited at Curry Point so please consider meeting us for the carpool, plus you can share the cost of the $10 entrance fee! Please e-mail Steve at [email protected] if you would like to carpool, or just show up! Our route is a bit circuitous and will be marked along the trail. From Curry Point we head west on Camp Force Trail and continue on Summit Trail, left on Ridge View, left on Wall Point, hard right on Summit Trail down below Sentinel Rock. Right on Live Oak Road and hard right to stay on Summit. We'll pass the Summit jct to the left and continue towards Green Valley Trail, turning left on No Name #1. Continue straight onto Summit and on to the entrance gate at the park boundary. We'll head back up the way we came, then veer right to stay on Summit, turn right at Dan Cook/Summit, then right onto No Name #2. Make a right on West Fossil Ridge to the end where we will have a snack and a view. Hike continues along West Fossil Ridge, right on Artists Point Tr, then left through a small parking lot. Long hike turns right (see below), short hike continues up left along a road passing another parking area until you find the Trail Through Time. Take this trail to the left into Rock City following it through the area and enjoying the geology. Veer right at the CCC Trail to Sentinel Rock (or take it for an extra credit climb to the rock) and turn right on Summit Trail which will dip down to South Gate Road and then back to the left. Turn right on Camp Force Trail back to Curry Point. The long hike option is to add East Fossil Ridge Trail out and back. Pass through a parking lot and find the trail to the right as you near South Gate Road. Follow it out and back and then head straight up the road to the Trail Through Time and rejoin the directions above. Got all that? No Dogs Allowed in State Parks, detailed maps available and flour arrows will guide your way along the route. Please allow plenty of time to make the trip safely to the parking area, it can often take 30 minutes from the freeway. A moderate 7.8 mile, 1700ft hike in EBRPD Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park.
From the Foothill Staging Area we'll head up on Oak Tree, Ridgeline, Thermalito, and Ridgline Trails to a snack stop overlooking Pleasanton. The return descends on Ridgeline, Woodland, and Oak Tree Trails.
Click here for Google Maps directions to the Foothill Staging Area.
Join us for a hike through Las Trampas as we climb up and down the peaks and valleys. A hiker's choice of a Moderate 6 mile/1700 ft out and back or a Challenging 8 mile/2400 ft loop hike, both hikes will explore Las Trampas Peak. Hike begins heading northwest up Lower Bollinger Creek Loop, right on Bollinger Creek Loop towards the ridge, veer left on up to the ridge, left on Las Trampas Ridge Trail, left on Las Trampas Peak View Trail for a view from the top. Short hikers may take an extended snack break here. All hikers will continue left on Ridge Trail another mile to the junction of Madrone Trail. Short hikers will turn back here, returning along the same route to the parking area. You may choose to hike back along Upper Bollinger Creek Loop trail for some variation along the final 3/4 mile. The long hike will turn right on Madrone Trail, taking a break somewhere along the way (TBD, X marks the spot). Turn right at the first junction to head south on Madrone Trail. Make a hard right at Corduroy Hills Trail. At the next junction, take either way, they both loop around to the same spot. Continue up on the single track, left on a short spur near the top to the Eagle Peak overlook. Continue on Corduroy Hills, left at Las Trampas Ridge Trail, right at the fork onto Chamise. Turn left on Mahogany Trail for a lovely walk through the canyon along the crick, taking care of your footing. Continue straight where Trapline enters from the left until you reach Chamise Trail again, following it left and downhill toward the road. Before the gate, turn right on Bollinger Creek Loop which parallels the road, then left down to the parking area. If this trail looks like the surface of the moon, you may skip it and walk along the road instead. Dogs welcome, especially Buster. Facilities at trailhead only. As always, the route will be marked with flour arrows to guide your way. Detailed maps available. A Challenging+ 11 mile, 3000 foot loop hike of Burma Road, or a Challenging 8+ mile, 1900 ft loop hike on Secret Trail in Mt. Diablo State Park.
From Macedo Ranch we'll head up Wall Point Road, Dusty Road, Stage Road, and Burma Road Trails to North Gate Road. The longer hike continues to Angel Kerley Road, Mothers, Burma Road, and Deer Flat Road Trails to Juniper Camp for a snack break. The shorter hike can snack at Camel Rock before returning on Buckeye, Stage Rd, BBQ Terrace, and Secret Trails to Wall Point Trail.
The longer hike returns via Juniper, Summit, and Ridge View Trails to Wall Point Trail. Both hikes will then return to the staging area on Wall Point Road Trail. For you internet connected folk, try this link Macedo Ranch for google directions to the stagng area.
Your choice hike of a Starting from the large, shaded, Wayside parking lot we'll head South past the fish ladder to Bridle, Orchard, and French Trails.
At the Fern Trail the shortest hike turns left and ascends to the West Ridge Trail, taking it all the way to the Redwood Bowl to rest/snack.
The medium and longer hikes continue on French to the Madrone Trail, where the medium hike turns left and ascends to the West Ridge Trail/Redwood Bowl to rest/snack.
The longer hike turns right along French and proceeds to the Redwood Peak Trail before joining the West Ridge Trail into the Redwood Bowl to rest/snack.
After our break, all hikers will return via Roberts Ridge and West Ridge Trails to Tres Sendas Trail where we descend to the Stream Trail. We then follow the Stream Trail, (to Chown Trail), to Bridle Trail back to the Fish Ladder and our cars.
Note: Please park at the Wayside Area Parking lot with a nearby toilet. The large Wayside Parking Lot is on your left, past the fish ladder. Please click on this Google Maps link for directions to the parking lot.
Join us for one last hike in Black Diamond before it completely fades to brown. As the weather warms in East County the opportunity to hike here wanes; we'll get one more look at the late season wildflowers on a beautiful hike through the canyons and ridges of the park. A hiker's choice of a moderate 7 mile/2000' or a challenging 10.5 mile/2880', we will meet at the upper parking lot at the end of the road. Route will be Somersville to the Visitor Center, up the stairs, right on Chapparal Loop, right over bridge, up connector trail to Black Diamond, right on Black Diamond Tr, left on Nortonville, left on Black Diamond Tr, straight onto Coal Canyon. Veer right at top of the hill, then left on Black Diamond Way (paved), continue left on Black Diamond Trail at top of hill, continue for a mile. We'll take a break at the rocks just before Manhattan Canyon Trail. Continue right on Manhattan Canyon Trail, right over bridge, right on Chapparal loop up the hill and veering left as it becomes Ridge Trail. Shortly after passing the Lower Chapparal loop going down to the left, look for an unmarked single track to the left and follow the arrows staying right until you end up back on Ridge Trail again. Continue left down the hill through the wooden gate until you get to the junction at the metal gate. The hikes split here. Short hike will turn sharp left down Stewartville, straight through the metal gate and on back to the parking area down to the right. Long hike will continue through the gate and to the left on Ridge, left on Acorn, right on Old Homestead, right on North Portal, right on Ridge back to the metal gate, right through it and down Stewartville, straight through the metal gate and on back to the parking area down to the right. Dogs welcome, facilities located at the trailhead only. Flour arrows will guide your route and detailed maps available. If you arrive at the entrance kiosk before 9 am you will often get in for free. A moderate++ 12 mile, 1800ft elevation gain out-and-back hike from EBRPD Dry Creek/Pioneer Regional Park through Stonebrae to the Comm Tower in EBRPD North Garin Regional Park.
Starting from the May Road Entrance we'll take May Road, High Ridge Loop, Tolman Peak, FD 143, High Ridge Loop, Whipsnake, and the Chabot to Garin Trails to the Comm Tower for a snack break. We'll return the same way with the option of detouring onto the Meyers Ranch Trail.
Google Maps Directions to the May Road Staging Area
Join us for our first Trails Challenge hike of the new year in beautiful Briones Regional Park. This hike is divided into Small, Medium and Large sizes for your hiking pleasure. Choose between a short moderate+ 6.5 mile/1700 foot, a medium challenging 7.7 mile/2000 foot or a long difficult 11 mile/2800 foot hike. We will be leaving from a different trailhead than normal with street parking available, but somewhat limited. If you can carpool with someone, please do. Either way, please allow an extra 10 minutes to get parked and walk to the trailhead. Click here for google map to trailhead. Route will be Blue Oak, continue straight at #52 on Blue Oak Shortcut, left at #51 on Spengler, right at #53 to Table Top. Take a moment to enjoy the view at the top, you've just climbed 1000 feet in the last mile. All hikers head down through the gate. The short hike will diverge here. Short hike continues straight down Briones Crest. When you get to the bottom at #22, turn left through the gate, then immediately right on a short unnamed trail to an overlook bench along the fenceline. Take a break! Your return route is below All other hikers will turn left at #74 on Briones Crest. The medium hike will diverge here. Medium hike turns right at #72 on Valley Trail. At the stables, right at #21 on Old Briones Rd. Near the top of Old Briones, before you go through the gate, walk up to the bench along the fence to your left and take a break! Your return route is below Long hikers will continue on Briones Crest, right at the fork to stay on Briones, through gate right at #70 on Seaborg, right at #78 on Crescent Ridge. We will take a break near the archery range where toilets are available. Continue on Crescent, veer left at #76 on Yerba Buena, left at #75 on Valley Trail. At the stables, right at #21 on Old Briones Rd. Near the top of Old Briones, before you go through the gate, walk up to the bench along the fence to your left and take a short break. Return for all hikes: Head back down from the bench and through the gate. Veer left at #22 on Briones Crest. Continue straight where the trail changes names to Old Briones Rd. Turn right at #24 on Spengler near the lagoon. Follow Spengler down the hill and continue past #37 back up the hill. At the junction of Diablo View and Spengler, veer right on Spengler (not up the hill on no name trail). At the horse water, stay right and then left at #50 on Blue Oak Trail. Turn left at #52 on Blue Oak Trail back to the parking area. Dogs allowed. No facilities located at trailhead or anywhere on the short and medium hikes. Flour arrows will mark the long route, detailed maps available. A moderate+ 7.3 mile/1500ft or 8.6/1900ft out-and-back hike along the Las Trampas Ridge Trail into EBRPD Las Trampas.
This hike starts with a quick, heart racing climb on the Fiddleneck Trail where you gain 800 feet elevation in 1 mile. After that we head North on the Las Trampas Ridge Trail to the Del Amigo Trail.
The short hike will turn about at this point as the longer hike proceeds in a counter clockwise direction on Del Amigo and Sulphur Springs Trails rejoining Las Trampas Trail for the return.
Parking is limited at the Elworthy Staging area, so please carpool if you can. When you enter the lot, please attempt to park as efficiently as possible.
Join me for a special Route will be Curry Canyon Rd., left on Frog Pond, left on Green Ranch Rd. We will take a break at the Green Ranch Site. Continue on Green Ranch, left on Oak Knoll. Cross the road and take Summit Trail left back down the mountain. Continue on Summit, which hugs the road all the way back to Curry Point. Extra Credit portions are all out and back hikes. They include a 50 yard excursion to the grinding holes off of Curry Cyn, a half mile jaunt to Frog Pond, and a 1.6/400' trip to Rhine Cyn. We will meet at Danville Park & Ride at 8:30 for a 9:30 hike starting from Curry Point. No Dogs Allowed in the park. Flour arrows will guide your way along with provided maps. No facilities at Curry Point, use restrooms at Rock City or Junction. Join us for a lovely hike through meadows, peaks and canyons to celebrate the first day of Spring. A hiker's choice of a moderate 7.4 mile/1770 foot short hike or a challeging 9.3 mile/2500 foot long hike. This hike starts from Regency Gate, but we will make our way over to the Mitchell Canyon side of the park and climb to rarely used Black Point Summit. Hike begins on Back Creek, right on Murchio, left on Bruce Lee Rd, right to Coulter Pine, straight onto Oak Rd, left on Mitchell Canyon, right on Black Point, right to stay on Black Point, left to Black Point Summit (out and back), left on Black Point. Short hike will turn left on Red Rd., left on Globe Lily, right on Black Point, left on Mitchell Cyn Rd. If you would like to stop by the visitor center, continue to the parking lot, then continue to the end of the lot and rejoin other hikers on Bruce Lee Trail. Otherwise, bypass the lot by veering right on Terrace Trail, right on Bruce Lee Trail, left on Watertower Rd., right on Bruce Lee Road around the pond, then left on Murchio Rd. and left on Back Creek to Regency. Long hike will turn right on Red Rd. from Black Point, then left on Olofson Ridge Rd. to the park boundary. This is a 2 mile out and back, not a loop!! Rejoin the other hikers by continuing past Black Point on Red Rd. and follow directions above. Dogs are not allowed in the park. Facilities are located at the Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center only. As always, detailed maps are available and flour arrows will guide your way. A quite Challenging hike to Alameda Counties tallest waterfall. This is 12.3 mile, 4200 ft elevation gain out-and-back hike on the Ohlone Wilderness Trail.
Starting from the Lichen Bark Parking Lot we head up Sailor Camp Trail to the Ohlone Wilderness sign-in panel, where all hikers must sign in before entering the Wilderness. We then continue up and down the Ohlone Wilderness Trail to Johnny's Pond, and Murietta Falls Trails.
After a refreshing pause to snack and enjoy the falls we will return on the same route.
A shorter 6 mile loop hike to Rocky Ridge to enjoy the views and Wild Flowers can also be done by those not interested in the Full Monty.
Please be sure you have and carry with you a current Annual Ohlone Wilderness Pass ($2 at the Kiosk)
Please be on time as this is a 6+ hour hike. A two-for-one hike along the East shore of Lake Del Valle. We'll search for wildflowers on this moderate+ 7.7 mile, 1400 ft or challenging 10.8 mile, 2000 ft hike from the Arroyo Road Staging Area.
Both hikes start from below the dam at the Arroyo Road Staging Area onto the East Shore Trail. At the top of the hill at the Heron Bay Trail, the hikes will then split up.
The long hike continues along the East Shore Trail to Swallow Bay, returning along the single track Swallow Bay Trail and East Shore Trail.
1/4 mile after turning onto the Heron Bay Trail both hikes will stop to rest/snack overlooking the lake at the fence line before the trail descends. After the snack both hikes return via a combination of Heron Bay and East Shore Trails, taking the single track Heron Bay Trail when available.
For Google Maps directions to Arroyo Road Staging Area click here
Join us as we hike some of the lesser traveled parts of Black Diamond which are teeming with wildflowers for your enjoyment. This is a three-fer hiker's choice of a moderate 6.5 mile/1400 ft short hike, a moderate+ 7 mile/1650ft long hike, or a difficult 9.3 mile/2500 ft extra-long hike. The long hike includes some hiking over sandstone rock to visit some of the mine features and poles are recommended. If you don't wish to rock scramble, please take the short hike. The extra long hike is a 2.3 mile addition to the end of both hikes and includes a 25 percent grade for some extra burn! Route will be from Sidney Flat clockwise on Riverview Loop, right out and back to Arata Overlook, straight back onto Riverview Loop, left to Riverview Tr., left to Carbondale, right on Saddle, left on Riverview Tr., straight onto Railroad Bed, right on Stewartville, left on Nortonville to the picnic tables for a break. The short hike will go left before the outhouses on Chapparal Loop to Hazel Atlas, left across the footbridge, and staying left on Pittsburg Mine, left on Stewartville, right on Railroad Bed, left to stay on Railroad Bed to the parking lot. The long hike will go straight up the road from the break point toward the visitor center (which is closed), left up stairs, right on Chapparal. Visit the Eureka Slope. Continue on Chapparal, left on Lower Chapparal up to the top, then left down Chapparal and right to visit Powder Magazine. Turn right on No Name Tr. then left on No Name #2 to visit Stope. Retrace steps back to Chapparal and right down hill to visit Hazel Atlas Portal. Continue on train tracks and down No Name #3, right on Pittsburg Mine, left on Stewartville, right on Railroad Bed, left to stay on Railroad Bed to the parking lot. Extra long hike will cross entrance road and left on Lougher Loop, right to stay on Lougher Loop, right on Lougher Ridge, right back down Lougher Loop trail and return to the parking area. Facilities are located at start and at break area. As always, detailed maps will be available and flour arrows will mark your route. Dogs welcome. A Challenging 9+ Mile, 2000 ft elevation hike up Roger Epperson Ridge to Highland Ridge. Then down to Marsh Creek and up to Bob Walker Ridge.
We'll head out on Clyma and Highland Ridge Trails, then descend on Raven Trail and Morgan Territory Road. We then head back on Bay Creek, Eagle, Volvon, and Condor Trails.
We may do some special, no name, Trails during the hike if the Trail conditions allow it.
Work off those game day snacks ahead of time with this hike at Las Trampas and the infamous Del Amigo hill. This difficult (one level above challenging) 6 mile/2400 ft gain hike has some steep inclines, a bit of rock climbing, and the long slog up Del Amigo hill. This hike also has some of the best views of Mt Diablo and the tri-valley. The isolated canyons and dense woodlands provide the sense you are hiking in the back country wilderness, and it promises to be a spectacular sunny day. All that and we'll have you home in plenty of time for the big game! Route will be right on Bollinger Creek Loop, left on Chamise, right on Mahogany, right on Chamise, left on Las Trampas Ridge, right on Corduroy Hills, straight/right on Madrone, right to stay on Madrone, left on Virgil Williams. We will take a break near the creek to refuel before the climb back up. The hike continues on Virgil Williams across Madrone, right on Del Amigo (where we will gain 500 feet in half a mile), right on Sulphur Springs, straight across Las Trampas Ridge to Trapline, left on Mahogany, left on Chamise, right on Bollinger Creek Loop and back to the parking lot. As usual there will be detailed maps available and flour arrows to mark your way. Facilities are located at the parking lot only. Dogs permitted. Join us for a rainy day hike as we meander alongside three different creeks. A moderate+ 6.3 mile/1350' circuitous hike, we will walk nearly every (passable) trail in the park and soak in the sounds of rushing water along Palo Seco, Cinderella and Fern Ravine Creeks. Of course we may soak up some rain and mud also, but this hike is mostly sheltered and the amount of deep sticky mud is fairly minimal. If it is not too rainy, an extra 1.2 mile/330' hike to explore the monuments around the main park area can be done at the end of the main hike. This hike is a bit tricky to follow on the map, but the route will be: Sinawik Connector Trail across creek, Right on Sunset Trail, Right across creek on Palos Colorados, Left on Sequoia-Bayview, Right on Big Trees, Straight on Palos Colorados back to bridge, cross creek and Left on Sunset Trail, Right on Sunset Loop Trail, Straight/Right on Fern Ravine Trail, cross Sequoia-Bayview, straight on Fern Ravine, left to stay on Fern Ravine. We will take a Rest Stop at the trail's end picnic area. The hike continues North across the road to Bayview Tr., Left on Cinderella, Straight/Right to stay on Cinderella, Straight/Left to join Sunset Trail. Turn Right to Sinawik Cabin, Left on Upper Sinawik, Straight onto Sunset Trail, Right across creek, Right on Lower Sinawik, Straight past Sinawik Loop to stay on Sinawik, Straight/Left to Sanborn Rd Lookout Point, loop clockwise onto Sinawik Trail, Right on Sinawik Loop Trail, Right on Sinawik connector trail back to Sanborn Rd Ranger Station. As usual, detailed maps will be available, but more importantly on this hike, flour arrows will guide your way. Restrooms located at trailhead and near rest stop. Dogs allowed on leash. There are two parking lots as well as tons of street parking...please allow extra time to get parked and over to the meeting spot! A moderate+ 6.4 mile, 1500 ft. elevation gain hike in EBRPD Tilden Regional Park.
From Inspiration Point we head South on Curran, Seaview, Vollmer Peak Rd Trails to a snack on the Peak. We'll return on Vollmer Peak Rd, Seaview, Vollmer Peak, Lupine, Vollmer Peak, Big Springs, Seaview, and Curran Trails.
Directions to Tilden's Inspiration Point from Google Maps
We will take a break from our strenuous hiking of late and opt for a more leisurely stroll from one end of Redwood Regional to the other and back. A moderate 8.5 mile/1500 ft or a moderate 6.5 mile/1300 ft loop hike, we should avoid the sticky mud present right now in many of the other parks we frequent. Starting from the large Wayside Parking lot (on the left before Canyon Meadow), we cross Redwood Creek by the fish ladder and continue on the Bridle Trail, left on Orchard, right on French, left on Madrone and right on West Ridge Trail to a snack break at Redwood Bowl. Return on the West Ridge Trail, left on Redwood Peak Trail. The short hike will turn right on French, left on Starflower, right on Tres Sendas and right on Stream Trail to the parking lot. The long hike will turn left on French, right on West Ridge to the Skyline Gate, right on Stream Trail across the entire park back to the starting point. Flour arrows and detailed maps will guide your way, facilities are available at Canyon Meadow Staging near the start and at Redwood Bowl. Dogs OK, but must be on-leash on the Stream Trail. WE WILL MEET AT WAYSIDE PARKING before you get to Canyon Meadow. A Moderate+ 6.8 mile, 1500ft hike of the Falls Trail on the North slope of Mt Diablo.
Route will be Donner Canyon Rd, Hetherrington, Donner, Wassermann, Cardinet Oaks Rd, and Falls Trails to a snack stop. We will return via Falls, Middle, Meridian Ridge Rd, Meridian Point, Back Creek, Back Creek Rd, Murchio Rd, and Donner Canyon Rd Trails.
Directions from
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