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Your choice of two hikes in Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve. Starting from the Main entrance/North Ridge Trail trailhead we'll descend on Harkins Ridge, North Ridge, and Whittemore Gulch Trails to rest/snack at the Western access off of Purisima Creek Road.
After our snack we return along Purisima Creek Trail, with the shorter hike crossing the bridge again and ascending on Harkins Ridge Trail.
The longer hike continues on Purisima Creek to Craig Britton and Harkins Ridge Trails to rejoin the short hike for our final leg on the North Ridge Trail into the Parking lot.
Join us for a hike in Black Diamond Mines, be prepared for a little mud. Starting at Route is Somersville, right on Nortonville, left on Manhattan Canyon, right on connector to Black Diamond, right on Black Diamond, left on Nortonville, left on Coal Canyon, right at Jim's Place, left on paved Black Diamond Way, right on No Name Trail out to the end for a break on the rocks under the power towers. Retrace back to paved road, right up to the end of the paved road, veer left on Black Diamond Trail. Right down Manhattan Canyon, left before the bridge on Chapparal Loop. Continue down by the Eureka Slope and past the stairway. Short hike turns left on connector trail, then right down Somersville back to cars. The long hike turns right at the T-intersection then veer left over the foot bridge. At another T-intersection turn left on Pittsburg Mine Trail. Turn right on Stewartville up to the junction with Ridge. Turn left before the gate onto Carbondale, left on Saddle, left on Riverview, to a right on Stewartville and right on Somersville back to cars.
Bring your EBMUD permit. Those without can be a guest of a hiker that has one.
Starting at
Route from Valle Vista is through the gate, right a short distance, left on Richie Loop Trail,
right on trail to King Canyon Loop, keeping left continuing up and over the hill to the gate at
the bottom where we will take a short rest/snack break.
Return right on King Canyon Loop Trail along the reservoir, left to return to the staging area.
Restrooms at Valle Vista Staging Area. Dogs not allowed in EBMUD.
Your choice of two hikes in EBRPD Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park Starting from the Foothill Staging Area, we head up Oak Tree, and Ridgeline Trails to marker #18, where the hikes diverge.
The short hike turns left to return on Thermalito, Olive Grove, Ridgeline, Woodland, and Oak Tree Trails.
The longer hike continues on going straight along Ridgeline Trail into Augustine Bernal Park, turning left to return on Thermalito, Ridgeline, Oak Tree, Woodland, and Oak Tree Trails.
Starting at 9:30 am from the Bob Pond entrance is a moderate 7.2-mile, 1450-foot elevation gain loop hike.
Route is through the gate to a right turn onto the Hanna Lane Trail, left on the Flat Top Trail, left to continue on the Flat Top Trail, then a right turn onto the Sulfur Creek Trail. At the end of Sulfur Creek Trail turn left on pavement and through the gate to the Costanoan Trail.
Continue left uphill on the Costanoan Trail, right turn onto the Upper Buck Loop Trail.
Continue left on the Upper Buck Loop Trail, right onto the Deer Lake Trail. Then a short rest/snack break at Deer Lake dam.
Continue past Deer Lake for a right turn onto the Corral Spring Trail. At the paved road turn left uphill onto the Ridge Top Trail. Continue on the Ridge Top Trail passing Ginder Gap, then a left turn onto the Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail. At the top of the hill near the sign board make a left turn onto the Borges Ranch Trail to return to Bob Pond.
Route subject to change based on trail conditions.
Restrooms and water at Bob Pond. Your choice of two hikes in Oakland's Joaquin Miller and EBRPD Roberts and Redwood Regional Parks Starting from the Joaquin Miller Ranger Station Parking Lot, we'll wind our way along
Sunset, Sinawik, Palos Colorados, Sunset, Chaparral, Sequoia-Bayview, and Big Trees Trails before crossing into Roberts to stop at the Redwood Bowl to snack.
We then continue onto Graham where the two hikes diverge at the Dunn Trail intersection.
The longer hike goes straight onto Dunn, Montiero, Golden Spike, and Dunn Trails again before rejoining the short hike back into Joaquin Miller.
Meanwhile the shorter hike turns right on Dunn to the Joaquin Miller connector trail, back up to Skyline Road and Joaquin Miller Park.
Both hikes complete the hike on Sequoia-Bayview, Palos Colorados, and Sunset Trails to Sanborn Drive back to the Parking Lot.
Starting at
Route from Marshall Dr. to Borges Ranch is road to Ridge Top Trail, following Ridge Top Trail past Ginder Gap Loop, crossing Coastanoan Trail around the
hill, left on Flat Top Trail, right on Haystack Hill Trail to the peak. After enjoying the view, return down Haystack Hill Trail, right on Flat Top Trail, right on
Hanna Lane Trail to Bob Pond. Then right up to Borges Ranch for a rest/snack stop.
Return up Borges Ranch Trail, right on Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail, left on Coyote Pond Trail at the gate, passing Coyote Pond, right up the hill for a left
onto Indian Creek Trail, right on trail passing Indian Valley School to return to the trailhead.
Route subject to change based on trail conditions and rain.
Restrooms and water at Bob Pond and Borges Ranch. Dogs OK
Your choice of two hikes in San Jose's Alum Rock Park Starting from the Rustic Lands Parking Lot, we'll cross Penitencia Creek passing through Rustic Lands Picnic Area.
We then follow Alum Rock Avenue up the road to a left turn on a service road taking us to the North Woodland Trail.
Following North Woodland, and South Rim Trails to our rest stop along Arroyo Aguague and Upper Penitencia Creek.
After the break we follow Penitencia Creek Trail downstream to the bridge at Alum Rock Falls Road, turning up the road to the North Rim Trail.
The longer hike turns right on Weather Loop and Todd Quick Trails, descending back down the hill to continue along the North Rim Trail.
After .2 mile, taking a right on an out-and-back along the Eagle Rock Trail, before turning right on the Lariat Trail, then left on Peninsular , Penitencia Creek and Lariat Trails.
Meanwhile the shorter hike continues along North Rim Trail turning left on Lariat Trail back to the parking lot.
Your choice of two hikes in EBRPD Redwood Regional Park Starting South from the Wayside Parking Lot, we'll take Stream, Bridle, Orchard, French, Fern, and West Ridge Trails
to snack/rest at the Redwood Bowl. We then continue on West Ridge, and Tres Sendas Trails where our hikes diverge.
The longer hike turns left up French Trail to West Ridge then right around to descend on Stream Trail from the Skyline Gate.
Meanwhile the shorter hike continues down Tres Sendas to turn right on the Stream Trail.
Both hikes return via the Stream Trail back to the Wayside Parking Lot.
Meet at the restrooms about 1/4 mile from the parking area.
Starting at 9:30 am from Castle Rock Park is about a
7-mile hike. Please download and print out the route map here.
Route is across the lawn through the gate and right on the Castle Rock Trail, left up the hill to the power tower, left on the Shell Ridge Loop Trail and continuing for a right uphill on the Fairy Lantern Trail. Then left onto the Mt. Diablo to Briones Trail, right on the Borges Ranch Trail to Borges Ranch for a short rest/snack stop.
Then continue on the Borges Ranch Trail, right onto the Hanna Lane Trail, left onto the Flat Top Trail, continuing left down the hill on Flat Top, right for a short distance then left onto the Ridge Top Trail, left on Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail, left on Fairy Lantern Trail, continue right on Fairy Lantern Trail, then left onto Stage Road to return to Castle Rock Park.
Water and restrooms at Castle Rock Park an Borges Ranch.
Starting at 9:30 am from Bob Pond is a moderate 6.5-mile 1400-ft hike with the option to extend it to 7.5 miles. There will be a short rest/snack stop at Walnut Creek's Castle Rock Park.
Route from Bob Pond is Borges Ranch Trail to Twin Ponds, right on the far side Twin Ponds Loop Trail to Bullfrog Pond, continuing uphill to Foothills Trail.
Then left on Foothills Trail, left on Stonegate Trail to Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail, right on Fairy Lantern Trail, continuing right on Fairy Lantern Trail, left on
Stage Road to Castle Rock Park.
After a short rest/snack stop, return across the lawn and through the gate for left on Castle Rock Trail, right on Fairy Lantern Trail, continuing left uphill on
Fairy Lantern Trail, right on Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail, right on Ridge Top Trail, right on Costanoan Trail. The short hike continues on Costanoan Trail to
return to Bob Pond.
The long hike will turn left on Flat Top Trail, continuing right on Flat Top Trail, right on Hanna Lane Trail to return to Bob Pond.
Restrooms and water at Bob Pond and Borges Ranch. Dogs OK.
Your choice of two hikes in Contra Costa Water District's Los Vaqueros Reservoir Starting from the the Interpretive Center by the Dam we'll hike over to Peninsula Cove on the Interpretive and Los Vaqueros Trails.
At the Badger Pass intersection the Short hike stops at the picnic table near the toilet to snack/rest.
The longer hike continues to Cowboy cove on Peninsula Trail and Peninsula Crest Trail to snack at the Ridge picnic tables.
After the snack the long hike returns to the Badger Pass intersection and rejoins the short hike returning to the Parking lot.
Both hikes return via the same trails as the outbound direction with a short cut at Peninsula Cove.
Please download and print the route map with directions linked here.
A cool day brings us to the west side of Briones for a lovely hike up near Briones Peak and sweeping views of Mt. Diablo and the valley below. Starting at We'll head out Old Briones Rd, veer right to the Ivan Dickson, left up Crescent Ridge past the Archery Range, left on Yerba Buena. The short hike turns right at T-intersection onto Valley, the left at the next T on Briones Crest, then right at the next T a short distance to find the lookout bench on Table Top. Both hikes meet here and continue together to the end. Proceed down Table Top, right on Briones Crest (staying left), right to stay on Briones Crest at Sunrise, then right on Seaborg, and left on Bear Creek. There may be some poison oak on Bear Creek Trail. If you want to skip this trail (though it is lovely and shaded), you may continue to the next intersection and follow the arrows in reverse back the way we started. The long hike turns right at the T-intersection on Valley Trail, right on Old Briones, right on Briones Crest and up to Table Top to break and rejoin the short hikers. The trail will be marked with flour arrows along the route. This is the regional park entrance on the RIGHT NOT the EBMUD entrance on the left. Facilities located at trailhead only. Dogs Welcome for $2 fee. Entrance fee of $3. Please note: This group does not stay together on the hike instead relying on arrows put on the ground with flour to mark turns. You are encouraged to stay with others who are hiking your speed and you should also carry the trail route map (link above) either downloaded to your phone or in paper form.
Starting at 9:30 am from Rockspring Place is either a 6.5-mile 1200-ft elevation gain short or a longer 8.5-mile 1500-ft elevation gain loop hike in Shell Ridge Open Space. Please download and print out the route map here.
NOTE: Meet at TRAILHEAD AT MIDDLE (NOT END) OF ROCKSPRING PL. Trailhead address is 1880 Rockspring Pl, Walnut Creek.
Route will be south on the Joaquin Ranch Trail, continuing on the south Twin Ponds Loop Trail past Bullfrog Pond, on to Twin Ponds, left on north Twin Ponds Loop Trail, right on Sugarloaf - Shell Ridge Trail, right on Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail, left on Ridge Top Trail, right on Costanoan Trail, quick left on Flat Top Trail, continue right at top of hill. Right on trail up to Haystack Hill for a nice view. Return down Haystack Hill, right on Flat Top Trail, right on Hanna Lane Trail to Bob Pond.
A short rest/snack stop at Bob Pond. Then return up the Borges Ranch Trail, right on the Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail, left on Coyote Pond Trail to the junction with the Joaquin Ranch Trail.
The short hike will turn left on the Joaquin Ranch Trail to return to the trailhead.
The long hike will turn right on the Joaquin Ranch Trail, left on the Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail, left on the Fossil Hill Loop Trail, left on Indian Creek Trail, right on Joaquin Ranch Trail to return to the trailhead.
Water, restrooms and picnic tables at Bob Pond. Dogs welcome, off-leash OK on the trails.
Your choice of two hikes in EBRPD Del Valle Regional Park Starting from the West side of the lake near the Lichen Bark Picnic area, we'll head along West Shore, cross the bridge,
then East Shore up to Cedar Camp, back around to Black Sage up to Cedar Mtn to stop for a rest/snack stop at the picnic table.
Then down Cedar Mtn, crossing Arroyo Valle Creek into the Family Camp ground.
Then over to and up Vallecitos, and back down Sailor Camp, with a quick loop on Oak Hills Self Guided Trail.
On returning to the picnic area the short hike will return to the parking lot to complete the hike.
The long hike will turn left and do an out-and-back hike to the end of Deer Jaw Trail.
Please download and print the route map linked here.
NOTE EARLIER START TIME!! Join us for a hike on Mount Diablo at Please either print out or download to your phone the trail route map here. The long hike turns slight right on Black Hills Road, right on Black Hawk Ridge Road to the top for a break. Loop around and back down, then follow the directions for the short hike above. Flour arrows will mark your route. Please note: This group does not stay together on the hike instead relying on arrows put on the ground with flour to mark turns. You are encouraged to stay with others who are hiking your speed and you should also carry the trail route map (link above) either downloaded to your phone or in paper form. Starting at
Route will be Kovar Trail, left onto Fossil Hill Loop Trail, right onto Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail, left onto Corral Springs Trail, right onto Ridge Top Trail, left down Costanoan Trail, right onto Borges Ranch Trail to Borges Ranch.
After a short rest/snack stop, return up the Borges Ranch Trail, right onto Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail, left onto Coyote Pond Trail, right onto Joaquin Ranch Trail, left onto Indian Creek Trail, continuing on Kovar Trail to Howe Homestead Park.
Full facilities at Howe Homestead Park and Borges Ranch. Dogs welcome, off-leash OK on the trails. Something for everyone hike in Mount Diablo State Park. From the Regency Gate your choice of Starting from Regency Gate the all routes will follow
Donner Canyon Road, Hetherrington, Bruce Lee Spring, Donner, Hetherrington, Donner Canyon Road, and Meridian Ridge Road Trails to Meridian Point Trail where the hikes diverge.
The short hike turns right on Meridian Point Trail to return on Back Creek Trail.
The medium and long hikes continue up Meridian Ridge Road to Back Creek Trail where the medium hike turns right to return along Back Creek Trail.
The long hike continues on to Eagle Peak on Meridian Ridge Road, Eagle Peak, Coulter Pine, Bruce Lee Road, Murchio Road, and Back Creek Trails.
Please download the Route Map here
NOTE EARLIER START TIME!! Join us for a hike through Lake Chabot Regional Park at Please either print out or download to your phone the trail route map here. The long hike turns right a short distance to a left towards Live Oak Trail. Turn right up Live Oak, left on Towhee down along the campground road. Pickup Huck's trail and take a break on the lawn near the restroom building on the corner. Continue down Huck's trail through the campgrounds back toward the lake. At the bottom turn left on Honker Bay Trail back to the Live Oak Junction. Backtrack to the Short/Long split and follow the East Shore Trail back to the start. Dogs allowed. Flour arrows may mark your route. Please note: This group does not stay together on the hike instead relying on arrows put on the ground with flour to mark turns. You are encouraged to stay with others who are hiking your speed and you should also carry the trail route map (link above) either downloaded to your phone or in paper form.
Bring your EBMUD permit. Those without a permit can be a guest of a hiker that has one.
Starting at 9:30 am from EBMUD Valle Vista Staging Area is a moderate 7-mile 1400-ft elevation gain hike. Please either print out or download to your phone the trail route map here.
Route from Valle Vista is through the gate, left onto the Riche Loop Trail, left onto the Redwood Trail, right onto the East Ridge Trail, left onto the Prince Trail, left onto the Stream Trail to the Trail's End area for a short rest/snack stop.
Then continue on the Stream Trail, left onto the Canyon Trail, left onto the East Ridge Trail to the gate for a right onto the Redwood Trail to return to the Valle Vista Staging Area.
Water and picnic tables at Trail's End. Restrooms at Valle Vista and along the Stream Trail. Dogs not allowed in EBMUD areas.
Join us for a hike in EBRPD Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve.
Your choice of a Starting from the Visitors Center we'll follow River View Loop, River View, Carbondale, and Ridge Trails
to a short snack on the ridge with views of Mt Diablo and the Delta. We continue on Ridge, and Chaparral Loop Trails where the hikes split up.
The short hike turns right at the bridge to follow Chaparral Loop Trail around the hill to the stairs by the Eureka Slope.
Descending the stairs to follow Somersville Road Trail to a right on Stewartville, and left on Railroad Bed Trails back to the parking lot.
The Long hike turns left at the bridge onto Manhattan Canyon Trail up the canyon to Black Diamond Trail.
Following it around to Nortonville Trail and down to Manhattan Canyon Trail back to the bridge. At the bridge following the same route as the short hike
on Chaparral Loop, Somersville Road, Stewartville, and Railroad Bed Trails back to the cars.
Please download the route map with directions here
NOTE EARLIER START TIME!! Join us for a hike in Morgan Territory at Please either print out or download to your phone the trail route map here. The long hike turns left on Highland Ridge, right down Raven. Before you reach the roadway Raven curves to the left and so will you. At another bend to the left you will start your climb up Raven and left on Fox. Continue back the way you came on Highland Ridge to the Clyma intersection and follow the directions for the short hike back to the cars. Dogs allowed. Flour arrows may mark your route. Please download the map to your phone ahead of time, there is no service in Morgan Territory! Please note: This group does not stay together on the hike instead relying on arrows put on the ground with flour to mark turns. You are encouraged to stay with others who are hiking your speed and you should also carry the trail route map (link above) either downloaded to your phone or in paper form.
Starting at 9:30 am from Shell Ridge Bob Pond entrance is a moderate 7-mile 1400-ft elevation gain hike. Please either print out or download to your phone the trail route map here.
Route is through the gate to a right turn onto the Hanna Lane Trail, left on the Flat Top Trail, left to continue on the Flat Top Trail, then a right turn onto the Sulfur Creek Trail. At the end of Sulfur Creek Trail turn left on pavement and through the gate to the Costanoan Trail. Continue left uphill on the Costanoan Trail, right turn onto the Upper Buck Loop Trail. Continue left on the Upper Buck Loop Trail, right onto the Deer Lake Trail. Then a short rest/snack break at Deer Lake dam.
Continue past Deer Lake for a right turn onto the Corral Spring Trail. At the paved road turn left uphill onto the Ridge Top Trail. Continue on the Ridge Top Trail passing Ginder Gap, then a left turn onto the Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail. At the top of the hill near the sign board make a left turn onto the Borges Ranch Trail to return to Bob Pond.
Water and restrooms at Bob Pond. Dogs OK on the trails. 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.
Download a trail map of the hikes HERE
Weather permitting, and an EBMUD permit, there will be an extra credit hard hike of 7.8 miles, 2400 ft hike.
NOTE EARLIER START TIME!! Join us for a hike on Mount Diablo at Please either print out or download to your phone the trail route map here. The long hike leaves the break and turns onto Camel Rock Trail for 1.6 miles, at the end turn left across the street and find Little Pine Creek Rd. In 200 yards, turn right on Falcon Road and follow it up and around to a right on Castle Rock Trail to the overlook. Have a look and then follow the short route directions back to the start. NO DOGS. Flour arrows will mark the route until the break point, at which time only the long route will be marked up until Castle Rock, at which time both routes rejoin and will be marked. Please note: This group does not stay together on the hike instead relying on arrows put on the ground with flour to mark turns. You are encouraged to stay with others who are hiking your speed and you should also carry the trail route map (link above) either downloaded to your phone or in paper form. Your choice of three different hikes in EBRPD Sunol Regional Wilderness. Starting across from the Ohlone Wilderness sign-in panel, by the toilets, we'll cross the bridge and turn right, then left on Hayfield Road.
After .05 mile the medium and long hikes diverge, turning left on Shady Glen Trail, while the short hike ascends Hayfield road to the Cave Rock Road(SO22) near the upper Barn.
Meanwhile the medium and long hikes turn left to loop around on Shady Glen Trail to turn right on Flag Hill Trail,
ascending to SO3, before turning right to descend to High Valley Road.
At High Valley Road(S04), we turn right descending to Cave Rocks Road to meet up with the short hike group.
Now alll hikes proceed along Cave Rocks Road (SO24,SO25,SO26) to Cerro Este Road(SO33) to stop for a great view and a short snack break.
After our break, all hikes descend along Cerro Este to (ot18) where the short and medium hikes turn right descending past (ot17) to Canyon View Trail(SO42).
Meanwhile the long hike heads East from (ot18) on McCorkle Trail to (ot19), turning right on Backpack Road.
We descend Backpack Road to Camp Ohlone Road(SO44), turning right to another right on Canyon View Trail(SO43).
Proceeding along Canyon View Trail to (SO42), to once again meet up with the other hikers.
From (SO42) all hikers proceed along Canyon View Trail through (ot15,ot14) to the bridge, turning left back to our starting point.
Please click here to download a geopdf map of our hike route(s).
Starting at
Route is up the trail from the start point, then left on the Lafayette Rim Trail and continuing past the water tank until reaching the picnic tables just above the dam and restrooms for a short rest/snack stop. Then continue across the dam.
After crossing the dam, turn right on the lower trail, then left on the trail just past the children's play area. Turn right on the rim trail at the top of the hill and continue to the 2nd sign board to turn left to return to the start point on the trail we originally ascended.
Dogs are allowed but must be on leashes no longer than 6 feet. NOTE EARLIER START TIME!! Join us for a hike through the outskirts of Redwood at Please either print out or download to your phone the trail route map here. The medium and long hikes stay on Golden Spike to the left at the Montiero junction following for a mile. Turn left on Dunn around to the Equestrian Arena, then right on Serpentine Trail past the parking area and back up to rejoin Dunn. These last two trails are Steve's last two trails to complete the park. We'll follow Dunn up staying right and seeking a suitable place for a break. Follow Dunn up past Montiero to the Baccharis junction, the long a medium hikes diverge here. The medium hike will turn right on Baccharis and follow the directions for the short hike from here. The long hike turns left on Baccharis, right on West Ridge, left on Chown all the way down to the bottom, turning right onto Bridle Trail just before you reach Stream Trail. Follow Bridle all the way back to the fish ladder. Trails will be marked with flour arrows. Dogs allowed. Please note: This group does not stay together on the hike instead relying on arrows put on the ground with flour to mark turns. You are encouraged to stay with others who are hiking your speed and you should also carry the trail route map (link above) either downloaded to your phone or in paper form. Please download the hike map here.
Bring your EBMUD permit. Those without a permit can be a guest of a hiker that has one.
Starting at 9:30 am from EBMUD Valle Vista Staging Area is a moderate 7-mile 1400-ft elevation gain hike. Please either print out or download to your phone the trail route map here.
Route from Valle Vista is through the gate, left onto the Riche Loop Trail, left onto the Redwood Trail, right onto the East Ridge Trail, left onto the Prince Trail, left onto the Stream Trail to the Trail's End area for a short rest/snack stop.
Then continue on the Stream Trail, left onto the Canyon Trail, left onto the East Ridge Trail to the gate for a right onto the Redwood Trail to return to the Valle Vista Staging Area.
Water and picnic tables at Trail's End. Restrooms at Valle Vista and along the Stream Trail. Dogs not allowed in EBMUD areas. NOTE EARLIER START TIME!! Join us for a hike through the northern part of Briones at Please either print out or download to your phone the trail route map here. The short hike will break near a bench on Lagoon, and then turn left on Briones Crest another left to stay on Briones Crest passing back by the lagoons. Turn left on Old Briones Rd Trail, right on Spengler all the way to the bottom. You may choose the easier gravel Alhambra Creek Trail on the left, or the more challenging No Name Trail left just past the Alhambra Creek Trail running along the creek bed. The long hike will turn right on Briones Crest, left on Abrigo Valley and take a break at the Maud Whalen camp. Hike continues left on Mott Peak, then right on Briones Crest rejoining the short hike and following the directions above. Trails will be marked with flour arrows. Dogs allowed. Please note: This group does not stay together on the hike instead relying on arrows put on the ground with flour to mark turns. You are encouraged to stay with others who are hiking your speed and you should also carry the trail route map (link above) either downloaded to your phone or in paper form. A two-for-one hike of EBRPD Sibley Volcanic and Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserves.
We'll 'round the top' then descend into Huckleberry and Pinehurst road to do the McCosker Loop,
finishing up through Huckleberry and Skyline Blvd.
Your choice hikes of Starting from the Sibley Staging area we head out on Round Top Loop Trail circling Round Top Peak in a clockwise direction.
We turn left on the Bay Area Ridge Trail/Skyline Trail to descend to Lower Pinehurst Trail along San Leandro Creek to Pinehurst Road.
We then very carefully walk, on the left side of the road, along Pinehurst Canyon road for 0.22 miles to the Wilcox Staging Area.
We reenter Sibley Preserve and follow McCosker Trail up to a loop junction above a large metal shed.
Continuing straight in a clockwise direction on the McCosker Loop Trail until we return to this point.
Depending on the weather we'll stop to snack at the top of the hill, or further down where there is a shaded table.
After passing through the (loop) gate, we turn left and return to the Wilcox Staging Area.
Now we turn right onto Pinehurst Canyon Road, again walking along the left shoulder very carefully back to Lower Pinehurst Trail.
After 0.25 mile on Lower Pinehurst Trail we take the left fork of the Bay Area Ridge Trail up into Huckleberry Preserve.
After 0.1 mile the shorter hike stays right at the junction, ascending to a right into the Huckleberry Staging Area.
The longer hike turns left at the junction, following the Bay Area Ridge for 1 mile to a sharp right onto the Huckleberry Path Trail.
The Huckleberry Path takes us to the Huckleberry Staging Area after another mile, where we rejoin the shorter hike for the return to Sibley.
Both hikes follow the no-name path for 0.2 mile past the staging area toilet until it exits onto Skyline Blvd.
We now carefully walk on the shoulder of Skyline Blvd. back to our cars.
Please download the hike map here.
Note: Dogs are not allowed in Huckleberry or along the McCosker Trail.
Starting at
Route from Bob Pond is Costanoan Trail, right at top of hill on Ridge Top Trail, continue on Ridge Top Trail past Ginder Gap, left on Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail past Marshall Drive staging area, right on Fossil Hill Loop Trail, right on Kovar Trail to Howe Homestead Park for a short rest/snack stop.
Return on Kovar Trail, right on Indian Creek Trail, right on Joaquin Ranch Trail, left on Coyote Pond Trail, right on Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail. Short hike turns left on Borges Ranch Trail passing the Ranch to return to Bob Pond.
The longer hike continues on Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail, left on Fairy Lantern Trail, continuing left on Shell Ridge Loop Trail at bottom of hill, continuing left at power towers, left on Borges Ranch Trail to return to Bob Pond.
Water, restrooms and picnic tables at Bob Pond and Howe Homestead Park. Dogs welcome, off-leash OK on the trails.
NOTE EARLIER START TIME!! Join us for a hike through the southern half of Tilden at Please either print out or download to your phone the trail route map here. After the break turn left (from the original direction you were heading) on Wildcat Gorge, staying to the left of Lake Anza on a single track. At the end of the lake, turn right for a connector trail along the lake to Selby Trail where you turn left on Selby. Follow Selby around to the right, partially on the roadway crossing Wildcat Canyon Road and continuing on Selby. Continue across Golf Course road and continue for 3/4 mile crossing a roadway again and finding Grizzly Peak Trail. Continue to a left on Redwood Trail, then right on Golf Course Trail, right on Tower Trail. At a junction keep right on Tower Trail, then continue veering right on Grizzly Peak Trail to a connector that takes you to Grizzly Peak Blvd. and the Grizzly Peak overlook for a quick view. Trace back to Grizzly Peak Trail heading right, continuing past Tower and up keeping right at all junctions until you reach South Park Drive roadway. Cross and head left to find a single track up to the right , then right at the junction on Vollmer Peak trail and back to the start. Trails will be marked with flour arrows. Dogs allowed. Please note: This group does not stay together on the hike instead relying on arrows put on the ground with flour to mark turns. You are encouraged to stay with others who are hiking your speed and you should also carry the trail route map (link above) either downloaded to your phone or in paper form. Your choice of a Starting from the EBRPD Redwood Canyon Golf course parking lot we'll head up Brandon Trail to a left on Towhee Trail.
We follow it all the way around past the entry kiosk, past Puma Point to cross the road, then counter clockwise around the other camp grounds to a
right turn on Honker Bay Trail.
We then follow Honker Bay Trail along the lake to a right turn, crossing the bridge to the South side of San Leandro Creek.
At this point the shorter hike turns left on Cameron Loop Trail, left on Ten Hills Trail, left on Proctor Trail, and finally a left turn on Brandon Trail back to the parking lot.
The longer hike turns right on Cameron Loop Trail, and follows it up the hill past the East Shore Trail junction.
At the top of the hill we turn left again on Ten Hills Trail following it along the park boundary to a left turn on Brandon Trail back to our cars.
Please download hike map HERE.
Starting at
Bring your EBMUD permit. Those without can be a guest of a hiker that has one.
Route will be through the gate onto the Bear Creek Trail to the gate at 3-miles. The short hike will take a short rest/snack break before returning to the staging area.
The longer hike will continue through the gate and turn left before reaching the road to cross the stream right before arriving at the Bear Creek parking lot.
After a short rest/snack stop, return to the Briones Overlook Staging Area parking lot.
Dogs not allowed on the Bear Creek Trail. No water available on the hike. Primitive outhouses at Briones Overlook and Bear Creek Staging Areas NOTE EARLIER START TIME!! Join us for a hike from San Pablo Reservoir up to Wildcat Canyon and through Tilden at Please either print out or download to your phone the trail route map here. After the break head up to the right on Laurel Canyon Trail, right on Loop Road, left on Pine Tree Trail. At the T make a right on Laurel Canyon Trail. Turn left on Laurel Canyon Road, then stay right on Wildcat Peak Trail. At a junction stay left to remain on the trail passing the Peace Grove and then a right up to the Lookout. Take a short break here to take in the view and rest after the climb. Continue on Wildcat Peak Trail to the right, then retrace your steps on the No Name Trail we came in on. After passing through the gate and past the lookout bench, turn right on Conlon, left on Nimitz and right on Eagle's Nest retracing your steps back to the parking area. Trails will be marked with flour arrows. Please note: This group does not stay together on the hike instead relying on arrows put on the ground with flour to mark turns. You are encouraged to stay with others who are hiking your speed and you should also carry the trail route map (link above) either downloaded to your phone or in paper form. A 6.7 mile 1500 ft. elevation gain balloon hike in EBRPD Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park.
Starting from the Castleridge Trailhead, route will be up Courdet Trail,
left on Ridgeline Trail followed by a right on Schuhart Trail, right on Bay Leaf Trail at marker #27 to marker #28.
We'll then turn left on Shady creek for a short bit to marker #29 to stop to snack.
After our snack we head back up Shady Creek Trail, right on Ridgeline, then left onto Ridgeline Trail to a quick right onto Courdet Trail back to the staging area.
Please download and print this Trail Map
Starting at
Route will be through the gate onto the Bear Creek Trail to the gate at 3-miles. The short hike will take a short rest/snack break before returning to the staging area.
The longer hike will continue through the gate and turn left before reaching the road to cross the stream right before arriving at the Bear Creek parking lot.
After a short rest/snack stop, return to the Briones Overlook Staging Area parking lot.
Dogs not allowed on the Bear Creek Trail. Bring your EBMUD trail permit or be a guest of a hiker that has one. No water available on the hike. A hike of the Oakland hills Redwoods in EBRPD Redwood Regional and Joaquin Miller Parks.
Your choice hikes of a Starting from the Redwood Bowl Staging area we head East turning left, crossing Roberts Ridge Trail, then right down into the Redwood Bowl.
Turning right, past the restrooms, we head along the meadow to a slight left onto the West Ridge Trail.
We follow the West Ridge Trail for about 1.5 mile where the shorter hike turns right on Tate Trail following it down to the Golden Spike Trail near the Piedmont Stables.
After a sharp right on Golden Spike Trail, we follow it past the Montiero Trail junction through the Redwoods to Dunn Trail.
Turning right on Dunn Trail, we follow it 0.1 mile to a junction turning left then right on Serpentine Prairie Trail up to the Trudeau Center Staging Area for our snack stop.
The longer hike continues down West Ridge Trail for another 0.7 mile to a right onto Golden Spike Trail, following it West along Redwood Road to the Tate Trail junction.
Crossing Tate Trail we join back up with the shorter hike to continue on Golden Spike Trail as above.
After our break we pass the Trudeau Center on the connector Trail to Dunn Trail. We follow Dunn for less than 0.1 mile to a left to connect with the Trail to Joaquin Miller Park.
Ascending for 0.2 mile to Skyline Blvd, turning left for 0.1 mile along the road, we turn right, crossing Skyline to enter Joaquin Miller Park.
We now follow Sequoia Bayview Trail for about 1.75 mile below the Sequoia Horse Area, past Cinderella Trail, to a right turn on Castle Park Trail crossing over Skyline into the Redwood Bowl Staging Area to our cars.
Please download the hike route map Here
Bring your EBMUD permit. Those without can be a guest of a hiker that has one.
Starting at 9:30 am from EBMUD Valle Vista Staging Area
is a moderate 7-mile 1400-ft elevation gain hike. Please either print out or download to your phone the trail route map here.
Route from Valle Vista is Redwood Trail, right through the gate onto East Ridge Trail, left onto Prince Trail, left onto Stream Trail to the Trail's End area for a short rest/snack stop.
Then continue on the Stream Trail, left onto the Canyon Trail, left onto the East Ridge Trail to the gate for a right onto the Redwood Trail to return to the Valle Vista Staging Area. Water and picnic tables at Trails End. Restrooms at Valle Vista and along the Stream Trail. Dogs not allowed in EBMUD areas. NOTE EARLIER START TIME!! Join us for Father's Day in the (hopefully) Cool Canyons and Ridges of Wildcat Canyon at Please either print out or download to your phone the trail route map here. The short hike will have a break and then turn around at the cattle gate a mile beyond the horse gate. Retrace your steps back. The long hike will continue through the cattle gate on Rifle Range Road turning right at the split. Continue for 1.5 miles to a small peak at Dinosaur Ridge and have a break, enjoy the views, then retrace your steps back to the start. Dogs allowed on the short hike only. Trails will be marked with flower arrows. Please note: This group does not stay together on the hike instead relying on arrows put on the ground with flour to mark turns. You are encouraged to stay with others who are hiking your speed and you should also carry the trail route map (link above) either downloaded to your phone or in paper form. NOTE EARLIER START TIME!! Join us on the Ridges and Valleys of Wildcat Canyon at Please either print out or download to your phone the trail route map here. The hikes diverge here, the long hike turns left on Rifle Range Road for a 1 mile out-and-back, and both hikes continue up Wildcat Creek to the parking area. The trail will be marked with flour arrows along the route. Facilities are located at trailhead only. Dogs Allowed. Please note: This group does not stay together on the hike instead relying on arrows put on the ground with flour to mark turns. You are encouraged to stay with others who are hiking your speed and you should also carry the trail route map (link above) either downloaded to your phone or in paper form. Starting at
Route is Stage Road, left onto Sunset Trail, slight left for Falcon Road, right onto Little Pine Creek Road, left onto Burma Road and across North Gate Road to Camel Rock for a short rest/snack stop.
Return back on Burma Road keeping left to follow Burma Road downhill, right onto Stage Road to Castle Rock Park.
Water and restrooms at Castle Rock Park. Dogs not allowed in Mt. Diablo State Park. Your choice of a Leaving from the MacDonald Staging Area on MacDonald Trail for 2.5 miles to a right before the Bort Meadow Staging Area and a quick left to the Grass Valley Trail.
We head South on Grass Valley Trail through the cattle gate staying left on the fire road for almost a mile before making a sharp right on Redtail Trail.
After crossing Grass Valley creek we turn right on Brandon Trail following it for 0.5 mile to the Horseshoe Trail.
The short hike goes straight on Brandon Trail at the Horseshoe Trail Junction, following the fire road into Bort Meadow Group camp for the snack break.
The longer hike turns left on Horseshoe Trail, then right onto Goldenrod Trail at the Chabot Equestrian Center.
After about 1.5 mile turning right to descend on Ranch, and Grass Valley Trails to a right turn after the gate into Bort Meadow for our snack break.
After our snack break, we'll head back on Grass Valley and MacDonald Trails to the MacDonald Staging Area.
Please click here for the trail map.
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 in the hills of Briones for a hike out of Alhambra Creek at Please either print out or download to your phone the trail route map here. The hikes diverge here, the long hike turns right on No Name #2 for a short out-and-back, and both hikes continue up Spengler. All hikers turn right on Diablo View Trail, with the long hike making a left on No Name #3 for a short out-and-back. The short hike will continue on Diablo View back to the cars. The long hike continues on Diablo View, right for an out-and-back on Hidden Ponds Trail, continue on Diablo View, right on Tavan Trail for a short out-and-back, then right on No Name #4 for a jaunt down a horse trail to the stables, cross the park entrance road, and then back on Hayfield Trail which parallels the road back to the cars. The trail will be marked with flour arrows along the route. Facilities are located at Crow Picnic area only. Dogs Allowed. Please note: This group does not stay together on the hike instead relying on arrows put on the ground with flour to mark turns. You are encouraged to stay with others who are hiking your speed and you should also carry the trail route map (link above) either downloaded to your phone or in paper form.
Starting at 9:30 am from EBMUD Valle Vista Staging Area is a moderate 7.8-mile 1400-ft hike. There will be a short rest/snack stop at Rancho Laguna Park. Please download and print out the route map here.
Route from Valle Vista is through the gate and left on King Canyon Loop Trail, continuing straight up the hill, continuing right, then continuing left down the hill hill to the gate at the paved road. Through the gate until a left to reach Rancho Laguna Park.
After a short rest/snack stop, return the way we came crossing the road and through the gate. Continue straight on King Canyon Loop until a left turn to continue on King Canyon Loop the way we came to return to Valle Vista.
Restrooms at Valle Vista and Rancho Laguna and water at Rancho Laguna. No dogs allowed on EBMUD trails. Another two-for-one hike of EBRPD Dry Creek/Pioneer and Garin Regional Parks.
Your choice of a Starting from the May Road Staging area we head up May Road, right on High Ridge Loop, Tolman Peak, and South Fork Trails to Tolman Peak,
the site of the 1951 United Airlines Flight 615 crash that killed 50 people.
We continue back down on Tolman Peak Trail, turning right to retrace our steps to the High Ridge Trail junction.
The two hikes split at this point with the shorter, easier hike staying left then right past May Road Trail on High Ridge Loop Trail.
After crossing Dry Creek the shorter hike turns right onto Meyers Ranch Trail, following it to a left on Dry Creek Trail up to Jordan Pond.
The longer hike turns right at the High Ridge Loop Trail junction ascending to a left on Pioneer Trail, that eventually descends onto Meyers Ranch Trail.
Heading West on Meyers Ranch Trail, we turn right on Dry Creek Trail, following it up to Jordan Pond as the shorter hike did.
After both hikes ascend the Jordan Pond Dam, we turn right around the pond to stop near the fishing pier for our snack break.
We return to our cars by circling the pond in a counter-clockwise direction where we pick up the High Ridge Loop Trail back to a right on May Road Trail.
Join us in the rolling Black Hills of Mount Diablo and Morgan Territory for a SATURDAY hike out of Finley Road at Please download and print out the trail route map here. The long hike continues left on Amphitheater, right on Crestview Rd., right on Black Hills Tr. Turn right on Sulphur Spring Tr., 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.
Starting at 9:30 am from Bob Pond is a moderate 6.5-mile 1400-ft hike with the option to extend it to 7.5 miles.There will be a short rest/snack stop at Walnut Creek's Castle Rock Park. Please download and print out the route map here.
Route from Bob Pond is Borges Ranch Trail to Twin Ponds, right on the far side Twin Ponds Loop Trail to Bullfrog Pond, continuing uphill to Foothills Trail. Then left on Foothills Trail, left on Stonegate Trail to Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail, right on Fairy Lantern Trail, continuing right on Fairy Lantern Trail, left on Stage Road to Castle Rock Park.
After a short rest/snack stop, return across the lawn and through the gate for left on Castle Rock Trail, right on Fairy Lantern Trail, continuing left uphill on Fairy Lantern Trail, right on Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail, right on Ridge Top Trail, right on Costanoan Trail. The short hike continues on Costanoan Trail to return to Bob Pond.
The long hike will turn left on Flat Top Trail, continuing right on Flat Top Trail, right on Hanna Lane Trail to return to Bob Pond.
Restrooms and water at Bob Pond and Borges Ranch. Dogs OK. Starting at
Route is up the trail from the start point, then left on the Lafayette Rim Trail and continuing past the water tank until reaching the picnic tables just above the dam and restrooms for a short rest/snack. Then continue across the dam.
After crossing the dam, turn right on the lower trail, then left on the trail just past the children's play area. Turn right on the rim trail at the top of the hill and continue to the 2nd sign board to turn left to return to the start point on the trail we originally ascended.
Dogs are allowed but must be on leashes not longer than 6 feet. Let's slow things down from some tough hikes of late and meet at Please download and print out the trail route map here. The XL hike will turn left at the T-intersection at Murphy Meadow onto No Name #1 for a .4 mile out and back. Rejoin the long hike, then left on Fox Trail for a 1.6 mile out and back to the fenceline. Rejoin the long hike crossing the bridge and left on Miwok. About .75 miles down, veer left for a .2 mile out and back to the fenceline, return to the Miwok Trail and in .5 miles return to the parking area. Facilities at Trailhead and break spot only. Due to sensitive habitat, dogs are not allowed. Route will be marked with flour arrows. Join me for another 2-for-1 hike in Mount Diablo State Park with a chance of finding more Spring Wildflowers.
Your choice of a We leave Macedo Ranch on Wall Point Rd following it for 3.2 miles (that's right, right, left turns) straight to a left turn on Ridge View Trail.
We then join up with the Summit Trail, headed toward the summit, where the shorter hike diverges with a left turn on Wildcat Trail down to BBQ Terrace for a rest/snack stop at the BBQ Terrace Horse and Group Camp..
The longer, more adventuresome hike, heads up Summit Trail for about 1 mile, where we turn right onto Oak Knoll Trail just after crossing Summit Road.
We follow Oak Knoll Trail for 0.8 miles to a left on Green Ranch Road, where we ascend to a snack stop at the Old Pioneer Horse Camp.
After our snack we descend on Summit Trail to a right turn on Wildcat Trail, where we rejoin the shorter hike.
Both hikes return to Macedo Ranch on BBQ Terrace Rd, left on Dusty Rd., and right on Wall Point Rd back to our cars.
Meet at the restrooms about 1/4 mile from the parking area. Starting at
Route is across the lawn through the gate and left on the Castle Rock Trail, continuing on Stage Road, left on the Sunset Trail and continuing on Falcon Road to the bottom of the hill. Then right on Little Pine Creek Road back up for a right turn on Burma Road down to Pine Pond. Turn right onto Stage Road and continue for a rest/snack stop past the gate at the picnic tables at the junction of Little Yosemite Trail. The short hike continues on Stage Road to the Castle Rock trailhead.
The long hike takes Little Yosemite Trail, right on Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail, right on the 2nd Buckeye Ravine Trail, right on Fairy Lantern Trail, left on Stage Road to return to Castle Rock Park.
Water and restrooms at Castle Rock Park. No dogs are allowed in Mt. Diablo State Park. April showers bring us back to another hike in EBRPD Redwood Regional Park. Your choice of a All hikes will head to the Redwood Bowl by heading South along the road to the Fish Ladder,
turning left onto Golden Spike then a right on the connector to the West Ridge trail where we turn left taking it all the way to the Redwood Bowl for a short snack break.
After the break everyone heads back on the West Ridge Trail turning left to the Redwood Peak/Madrone Trail intersection where the short hike turns right on Madrone descending to a right turn on the French Trail.
Meanwhile the medium and long hikes turn left and descend to the French Trail, where the medium hike will turn right following it down to turn right onto the Starflower Trail.
The longer hike will turn left on French Trail, then right on Tres Sendas Trail down to another right on Starflower to meet back up with the medium hike group.
Both hikes then ascend Starflower Trail to a left on Madrone Trail and another right onto French Trail.
All hikes will follow French Trail to a left turn on Chown descending to a right on Bridle Trail, finally turning left when it becomes a dirt road, then right onto Stream Trail through the Canyon Meadows area to our cars.
Let's see what the Pineapple Express rainstorm brings us and hike anyway at Please download and print out the trail route map here. Long hike crosses bridge and up to the Ridge trail, turning left. Turn left on Chapparal Loop veering right at the split to stay on Chapparal Loop. Turn right at stop 7 to check out the Powder Magazine, then continue down turning right and up a little trail to investigate the Stope. Bring a flashlight to peek in the chamber. Retrace your steps then continue down until you arrive at the Hazel Atlas Portal where the mine tours begin. Walk on the railroad tracks down to the right and then right to find Pittsburg Mine Trail. Turn left up through the gate onto Stewartville, then straight through the gate and right at Somersville Road to the cars. Facilities at Trailhead only. Dogs Allowed. Route will be marked with flour arrows.
Meet at the restrooms about 1/4 mile from the parking area. Starting at
Route will be across the grass field, through the gate and left on Castle Rock Trail, continuing on Stage Road, right on Fairly Lantern Trail, left to continue to top of hill, right on Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail, left on Borges Ranch Trail, right on south Twin Ponds Loop Trail to Bullfrog Pond. Right on Sugarloaf - Shell Ridge Trail, left on Franco Ranch Trail, left on Hazard Trail, right on Foothills Trail to the Livorna Staging Area.
After a short rest/snack stop return on Alamo Trail, left up Hanging Valley Trail, right on Stonegate Trail, left on Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail, right on 2nd Buckeye Ravine Trail, right on Fairy Lantern Trail, left on Stage Road to return to Castle Rock Park.
Restrooms and water at Castle Rock Park. Dogs OK.
Another 2-for-1 hike to see Mt. Diablo's wildflowers. Your choice of a
Starting from Regency Gate we head up Donner Canyon Road, left on Hetherrington, left on Bruce Lee Spring, and straight onto Wassermann Trail to Cardinet Oaks Road,
Turning right down Cardinet Oaks Road past Donner Canyon Road onto Meridian Ridge Road. At the Middle Trail junction the hike diverge.
The shorter hike continues on Meridian Ridge Road, then right on Meridian Point Trail into Back Creek Trail.
The longer hike turns left on Middle Trail and ascends to turn right on Prospectors Gap Road, straight onto Meridian Ridge Road, then right onto Back Creek Trail.
Both hikes will continue down Back Creek Trail and Back Creek Road back to Regency Gate.
PS: You should plan on arriving early for Parking with .25 mile of this very popular trail-head.
Let's begin Daylight Savings Time with a hike starting at Please download and print out the trail route map here. All hikers descend the steps and turn right on Palos Colorados to the end and returning the same way. Continue on the same side of the creek on Sunset, then cross the creek and head back the opposite way on Sinawik following it up the hill to the lookout point. Loop back around and stay right on Sinawik Loop. We will take a hard right on a No Name Trail back up to the roadway turning left to return to the start. Dogs allowed, facilities at lot only. Flour arrows will guide your route. Download the route map using the link above! Your choice hike to Vollmer Peak. Starting from Inspiration Point we head out Curran, and Seaview Trails toward Vollmer Peak.
The shorter hike continues along the ridge to the Paved road around Vollmer Peak.
The longer hike turns right at Arroyo Trail, descending to South Park Dr,
turning left onto Vollmer Peak Trail, then left onto Lupine and Vollmer Peak Trails ascending to the paved Vollmer Peak road.
Both hikes follow the paved road clockwise around Vollmer peak down to the picnic area across from the Steam Train Parking lot.
After our snack we will return via Vollmer Peak, South Park Dr, Big Springs, Seaview, and Curran Trails.
Starting at
Route will be Kovar Trail, left onto Fossil Hill Loop Trail, right onto Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail, left onto Corral Springs Trail, right onto Ridge Top Trail, left down Costanoan Trail, right onto Borges Ranch Trail to Borges Ranch.
After a short rest/snack stop, return up the Borges Ranch Trail, right onto Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail, left onto Coyote Pond Trail, right onto Joaquin Ranch Trail, left onto Indian Creek Trail, continuing on Kovar Trail to Howe Homestead Park.
Full facilities at Howe Homestead Park and Borges Ranch. Dogs welcome, off-leash OK on the trails. A moderate 6 mile, 1000 ft ele. gain hike in EBRPD Redwood Regional Park. With an optional longer 7.3 mile, 1500 ft ele. gain available.
Starting from the Canyon Meadows Staging Area, up the Stream Trail to a left on the Tres Sendas Trail.
At the Starflower Trail the two hikes split, with the shorter hike ascending to a left turn on French Trail.
The longer hike continues up Tres Sendas, to a left on French Trail following it around to the Starflower Trail junction.
At this point the both hikes follow the French Trail to Orchard Trail, where the shorter hike turns left descending to a right turn on Bridle Trail.
The longer hike turns right and ascends to West Ridge Trail, turning left to follow it all the way back down to Bridle Trail.
Turning right on Bridle Trail, both hike continue to the fish ladder, crossing the bridge to a left turn onto the Stream Trail back to the cars.
Note: In the event of bad weather, this hike may be canceled. Please check the web site by 8:00am Thursday morning for the status of the hike.
Help me cross off some unhiked trails and join us at Please download and print out the trail route map here. The long hike turns right on Las Trampas/Calaveras Ridge Trail, right on No Name #2 down to the boundary, then retrace your steps back up to the split and follow the above directions for the short hike onto Del Amigo. Dogs allowed, facilities at lot only. Flour arrows will guide your route. Download the route map using the link above! Starting at
Route is Stage Road, left onto Sunset Trail, slight left for Falcon Road, right onto Little Pine Creek Road, left onto Burma Road and across North Gate Road to Camel Rock for a short rest/snack stop.
Return back on Burma Road keeping left to follow Burma Road downhill, right onto Stage Road to Castle Rock Park.
Water and restrooms at Castle Rock Park. Dogs not allowed in Mt. Diablo State Park. A two-for-one hike along the East shore of Lake Del Valle. We'll enjoy the green hills on this moderate+ 7.7 mile, 1500 ft or challenging 10.9 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, by the tree, we turn right descending on the single-track Heron Bay Trail.
After 1 mile our trail meets the East Shore Trail, where we turn right, then another right back onto the Heron Bay Trail.
After .35 mile, we turn right onto the East Shore Trail, following it for another 1+ mile to the top of the hill.
At this point the two hikes split up, with the the longer hike continuing along the East Shore Trail.
The shorter hike turns right onto Heron Bay Trail, taking it .3 mile to the snack spot overlooking the reservoir.
The long hike continues along the East Shore Trail for 1 mile to a right turn onto the single-track Swallow Bay Trail.
After .25 mile rejoining the East Shore Trail for a bit, where we again turn right onto the Swallow Bay Trail.
Another .3 mile brings back up to the East Shore Trail above Badger Cove.
We now turn left on East Shore Trail, following it back to the short hike split point, where we turn left on Heron Bay Trail, taking it .3 mile to the snack spot overlooking the reservoir.
After the snack both hikes continue along Heron Bay Trail, turning left onto East Shore Trail, following it all the way back to the parking lot.
Starting at
Route is through the gate to a right turn onto the Hanna Lane Trail, left onto Flat Top Trail, continue left downhill on Flat Top Trail, right onto the Sulfur Creek Trail continuing downhill, left onto paved road a short distance, right through the gate onto the Costanoan Trail. Continue left uphill on the Costanoan Trail to the 1st right turn onto the Upper Buck Loop Trail. Stay right a short distance then right onto the Lower Buck Loop Trail, right onto the Deer Lake Trail for a short break at Deer Lake. Continue past Deer Lake to the Corral Spring Trail.
The short hike turns left onto the Corral Spring Trail to Ginder Gap.
The long hike turns right onto the Corral Spring Trail, then left onto the Ridge Top Trail to Ginder Gap.
>From Ginder Gap, both hikes take the Ridge Top Trail, turn left onto the Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail. At the top of the hill turn left onto the Borges Ranch Trail to return to Bob Pond.
Water and restrooms at Bob Pond. Dogs OK on the trails. 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 long hike turns right on Deer Creek Tr., right on Pereira, 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. DOGS welcome. Download your own trail map using the link above. Route will be marked with flour arrows. Facilities at the trailhead only. Starting at
Route will be through the gate onto Donner Canyon Road, left onto the Hetherington Trail crossing the creek, left onto Donner Canyon Road, right onto Meridian Ridge Road continuing to Murchio Gap.
After a short rest/snack stop at the Gap, return right down Back Creek Trail to Regency Gate. Please download and print out the driving directions map here.
Dogs not allowed in the State Park. No water or restrooms available. Join me for a two-in-one hike of CCWD Los Vaqueros. We'll climb the ridge near the Dam for great views of the Reservoir and surrounding parks including EBRPD Morgan Territory, Round Valley, and Mount Diablo.
Your choice of
Starting near the Dam by the John Muir Interpretive Center we head up the Interpretive Trail,
following the ridge onto Crest and Vista Grande Trails, finally turning right on Eagle Ridge Trail.
At about 0.6 mile stopping to snack at a large rock outcrop with great views into Round Valley and Mt Diablo.
After the snack we begin our descent on Eagle Ridge, turning left onto Kit Fox Trail descending to small valley with an Emergency Call-box.
At this point the hikes split up with the short hike making a slight right onto the Greasewood Trail, following it along the valley for 0.6 mile to a short right down to another right onto the Walnut Trail.
The longer hike goes through the gate staying on Kit Fox Trail, making a right at the Spearscale Trail junction, and a left at the Salamander Trail junction,
We leave the Kit Fox Trail near the top of the hill, turning right onto the Rancho Trail. We follow Rancho Trail for 0.8 mile until we reach Motrero Trail.
Turning right on Motrero, then right again onto Walnut Trail.
Both hikes follow the Walnut Trail back towards the dam and our cars.
Sorry Buster, Dogs and other pets are not allowed in the Los Vaqueros Watershed!
Meet at the restrooms about 1/4 mile from the parking area. Starting at
Route will be across the grass field, through the gate and left on Castle Rock Trail, continuing on Stage Road, right on Fairly Lantern Trail, left to continue to top of hill, right on Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail, left on Borges Ranch Trail, right on south Twin Ponds Loop Trail to Bullfrog Pond. Right on Sugarloaf - Shell Ridge Trail, left on Franco Ranch Trail, left on Hazard Trail, right on Foothills Trail to the Livorna Staging Area.
After a short rest/snack stop return on Alamo Trail, left up Hanging Valley Trail, right on Stonegate Trail, left on Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail, right on 2nd Buckeye Ravine Trail, right on Fairy Lantern Trail, left on Stage Road to return to Castle Rock Park. Please download and print out the driving directions map here.
Restrooms and water at Castle Rock Park. Dogs OK. Join us at The long hike continues straight across Stewartville onto Star Mine Trail, breaking at Star Mine Group Camp. Continue on Star Mine following it to the right until you rejoin Stewartville, making a left to join the other hike and following the directions above. Both hikes may choose an optional detour making a right on Miners Trail, a steeper and more difficult route. Dogs allowed. Facilities at start and at the breaks. Flour arrows will guide your route, please print out your own map using the link above. Trailhead Directions and google map are available by clicking the link in that section. A moderate 6 mile, 1000 ft ele. gain hike in EBRPD Redwood Regional Park. With an optional longer 7 mile, 1500 ft ele. gain available.
Starting from the Canyon Meadows Staging Area down the Stream Trail to the fish ladder. Then up Bridle, Orchard, and French Trails to the Madrone Trail intersection.
At this point the shorter hike turns right and follows French Trail down to Starflower, and Tres Sendas Trails. The longer hike turns left up Madrone Trail, right on Starflower Trail, then left on French Trail, taking it all the way to a right on Tres Sendas Trail.
The longer hike rejoins the shorter as we descend Tres Sendas Trail to the Stream Trail. We then turn right following the Stream Trail to our snack stop at Trails End picnic area.
After the snack stop we complete the hike on the Stream Trail returning us to the Staging Area.
Join us at The short hike continues to a hard right on Deer Canyon, left and across the road onto Redtail and back to the start. The long hike turns left on Loggers Loop trail, then left on Brandon to a hard right on Deer Canyon, left and across the road onto Redtail and back to the start. Dogs allowed. Pit toilets available on Marciel Road past the staging area. Outhouse available near the break. Flour arrows will guide your route, please print out your own map using the link above. Trailhead Directions and google map are available by clicking the link in that section. Starting at Route from Marshall Dr. to Borges Ranch is road to Ridge Top Trail, following Ridge Top Trail past Ginder Gap Loop, crossing Coastanoan Trail around the hill, left on Flat Top Trail, right on Haystack Hill Trail to the peak. After enjoying the view, return down Haystack Hill Trail, right on Flat Top Trail, right on Hanna Lane Trail to Bob Pond. Then right up to Borges Ranch for a rest/snack stop.
Return up Borges Ranch Trail, right on Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail, left on Coyote Pond Trail at the gate, passing Coyote Pond, right up the hill for a left onto Indian Creek Trail, right on trail passing Indian Valley School to return to the trailhead. Please download and print out the driving directions map here.
Restrooms and water at Bob Pond and Borges Ranch. Dogs OK. Three choice hike to Mount Diablo Waterfalls. You can pick Starting from Regency Gate, we head out on Donner Canyon Rd, crossing the creek on Heatherrington Trail, then a quick left onto Bruce Lee Spring Trail. Continuing on Donner and Wasserman Trails to Cardinet Oaks Rd. Turning right on Cardinet Oaks, we finally reach the Falls Trail where we turn left and follow it to our snack spot overlooking the 2nd falls.
After our break we continue on Falls Trail to Middle Trail, where the long hike turns left up the hill to Prospectors Gap Rd. The short and medium hikes continue down Middle Trail to Meridian Ridge Rd. where they split up.
The short hike will turn right on Meridian Ridge Rd, following it to a left turn on Donner Canyon Rd to return to Regency Gate.
The medium hike turns left on Meridian Ridge Rd, following it up the hill to a right on Meridian Pt. and Back Creek Trails. The hike then follows Back Creek Trail back to Regency Gate.
When the long hike reaches Prospectors Gap Rd, we turn right following it over to another right turn on Back Creek Trail to return to Regency Gate.
Please note: Parking during waterfall season can be limited on weekends, so plan on arriving early for best choice.
Join us at The long hike turns left on Burma Road, right on Buckeye Trail, right on Stage Road back to Castle Rock Park. You may take the Castle Rock Trail to the left of the gate which will bring you directly to the parking lots. No Dogs Allowed in the State Park. Restrooms available at Castle Rock Park only. Flour arrows will guide your route, please print out your own map using the link above. Trailhead directions are available by clicking the link in the Driving Directions section.
Now that a single-lane bridge has been installed on Canyon Road, we again have easy access to the Valle Vista EBMUD staging area. Bring your EBMUD permit. Those without can be a guest of a hiker that has one.
Starting at
Route from Valle Vista is Redwood Trail, right onto East Ridge Trail, left onto Prince Trail, left onto Stream Trail to the Old Church area for a short rest/snack stop.
Then continue on the Stream Trail, left onto the Canyon Trail, left onto the East Ridge Trail to the gate for a right onto the Redwood Trail to return to the Valle Vista Staging Area.
Water and picnic tables at Old Church. Restrooms at Valle Vista and along the Stream Trail. Dogs not allowed in EBMUD areas. Please download and print out the driving directions map here. |
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