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Weather forecasts can't agree so we'll ignore them and hope for dry weather at Los Vaqueros starting at 9:30 am. We'll celebrate the New Year with a hiker's choice of a moderate 6.2 mile/1380' short hike, a moderate+ 9.7 mile/1800' medium hike, or a challenging 11 mile/1940' long hike. EXPECT MUD. Please pay as you enter; if the kiosk is not manned you must stop at the office a mile up on the left and pay there...YOU ARE NOT PART OF A HIKING GROUP! Starting at John Muir Interpretive Center we will walk up the dam road and pickup the Los Vaqueros Trail. Follow all the way to the junction with Penninsula Crest Trail. The short hike will take a break then retrace their route back to the start. All others left on Penninsula Crest Trail. A short out and back to a knoll on the right then continue. Medium hikers will stay left at the loop ahead, long hikers (because Steve needs these trails to check off the list) will stay left, then right, then right to circle the roundabout, then continue. We'll take a break along the shoreline. All continue on Penninsula Trail back to the junction with Los Vaqueros Trail. Medium hikers turn right and retrace your route all the way back to the start. The long hike turns left on Los Vaqueros Trail, right on Oak Savannah Trail, right on Badger Pass, then left at Los Vaqueros Trail and retrace back to the start. 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 Redwood Bowl Staging Area we take to Roberts Ridge Trail into Roberts Rec Area.
Crossing over Skyline Blvd into Joaquin Miller onto Big Trees Trail.
We now wind our way down to Palo Seco Creek making a tight loop on both sides of the creek.
Eventually we ascend back up to Sequoia-Bayview Trail to take it across the park leaving it on Castle Park and Scout's Trails.
We re-enter Redwood Regional Park at the Moon Gate where the hikes split up.
The short hike turns right on West Ridge Trail past Chabot Space and Science back to the staging area.
The longer hike turns left on West Ridge, descends on Tres Sendas Trail, then right on French and Redwood Peak Trails.
At West Ridge Trail turning right crossing below the Redwood Bowl back to the the cars at the staging area.
Please download the map for precise turn-by-turn directions for this complicated route.
Route will be the Ohlone Trail, left onto the Blue Oak Trail, through the Ygnacio Valley Road tunnel, right on unnamed trail by Bayberry Pond, right onto the Lime Ridge Trail through the northerly Ygnacio Valley Road tunnel.
The long hike turns left on the Buckeye Trail, continues right on the Ohlone Trail, then right on the Ridge Trail to the rest/snack stop at the top of the Lime Ridge Trail.
The short hike continues on the Lime Ridge Trail to the rest/snack stop on top of the ridge.
Both hikes continue on the Lime Ridge Trail, right onto the Manzanita Trail, right onto the Paraiso Trail, short right jog at bottom of hill, then left onto the Ohlone Trail to return to Arbolado Park.
Water and restrooms and plenty of parking at Arbolado Park.
We'll tackle the north side of Diablo starting at 9:30 am. Hiker's choice of a moderate 5.7 mile/1200' short hike or a challenging 7.7/1940' hike. Please bring exact change, $5 senior/$6 regular. EXPECT MUD. Starting at Mitchell Canyon we'll head up Mitchell Canyon Road, right on Black Point, left on Fairy Lantern to Red Road. The hikes split here with the short hike turning right to do a separate out and back hike. Continue up Red Road, left on Olofson Ridge Road to the fence. Stop here for a break before returning back down Olofson, right on Red Road, left on Mitchell Canyon Road and back to the cars. The long hike turns left on Red Road, then right on Mitchell Canyon and the long climb up to Deer Flat. Break at Deer Flat before continuing on Deer Flat, left on Meridian Ridge to Murchio Gap. Take the second left down Back Creek Trail. Continue for 2 miles then cross the creek to the left onto Bruce Lee Road. Follow Bruce Lee all the way passed Coulter Pond, left on Watertower Road, right on Bruce Lee Trail and down to the lower parking lot, then back to the cars. 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 Castleridge Trailhead we head up to the ridge on Courdet Trail, turning left on Ridgeline Trail.
At marker 26 turn right on Bayleaf Trail, descending to a right turn at marker 25. At marker 27 the hikes split up after a snack break.
The short hike heads up Schuhart Trail to a left on Ridgeline Trail and right on Courdet Trail back to the staging area.
The longer hike continues on Bay Leaf Trail to marker 28, right on Shady Creek Trail, then right on Ridgeline Trail back to Courdet Trail and the cars.
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.
We'll see what the rainy week has in store at Redwood starting at 9:30 am. Hiker's choice of a moderate 6 mile/1200' short hike, moderate+ 7.2 mile/1400 medium hike or a moderate++ 8.7/1770' hike. Starting at the Wayside parking lot we'll hike along the road back toward the entrance, then right to the Fishway Interpretive site and over the bridge. Turn right onto Bridle and continue straight until the trail dead ends. Right on Chown and quick left on Stream. The short hike will turn left onto Mill Trail, the medium and long hikes will turn right over the bridge and continue on Stream. Short hike will take Mill to French, veering left. Turn right on Fern Trail ascending to West Ridge. Break at the top. Turn right on West Ridge, then left on Baccharis. Continue straight and rejoin West Ridge, turning right. Follow West Ridge all the way back down to Bridle Trail, turn right, then left over the bridge at the Fishway and back to the cars. The medium and long hikes continue on Stream, left on Tres Sendas, left on Starflower. Make the first left onto French trail, the lower one. This is a confusing intersection. If you end up popping up on Madrone, turn left (down) and then pickup French (right). Stay on French. Rejoin the short hikers by staying on French and turn right on Fern ascending to West Ridge. Medium hikers can break at the top. Turn right on West Ridge, then left on Baccharis. Continue straight and rejoin West Ridge, turning right. Medium hikers continue on West Ridge and rejoin the short hikers back to the cars. The long hike turns right on Tate down to Golden Spike. Break here before turning left on Golden Spike and then left on Toyon back up to the ridge. Turn right at the top on West Ridge and rejoin all hikes back to the cars. 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. An East Bay Hills balloon hike to Monument Peak from Santa Clara Counties Ed R. Levin County Park.
Your choice of a Starting from the Parking lot near the Dog Park on the North end of Sandy Wool Lake, we head up
Tularcitos, Agua Caliente, and Monument Peak Trails.
The short hike turns right on Sierra Trail heading East to Monument Peak Road and the intersection to the Hang Glider launch point.
The longer hike continues up Monument Peak Trail to an out-and back to the 2,598 ft peak.
Returning along the Monument Peak Road crossing back into Ed Levin Park to meet the Short hike group at Sierra Trail.
Both hikes descend on Monument Peak Road, turning left onto Agua Caliente and Tularcitos Trails back to the parking lot.
Time to go back to Lake Del Valle for a two-for-one hike on the East Side of the Lake.
Your choice of a Starting from the South end of the Marina Parking Lot we'll head out along the lake on the East Shore Trail passing under the bridge up to the service road. Crossing over Arroyo Valle on the bridge and descending into the Family Campground. We cross Arroyo Valle Creek on Cedar Mtn. Trail ascending to Black Sage Trail where the short hike group can stop to snack.
Following the Black Sage Trail around to a fire road. A left turn, then shortly a right turn onto the road heading North. The groups split up at the pond where the shorter hike follows Cedar Camp Trail to Del Valle Road, turning left .15 miles along the road to the trailhead back to the East Shore Trail and the cars.
The longer hike crosses over the pond Dam on the fire road stopping to snack after .6 mile at an old building foundation. We then continue on ascending to the top of Del Valle Road, where we turn left down along the road to the East Ridge Trail. We complete the hike along East Ridge, Left on Ridgeline, and Right on Squirrel Gulch Trails to the Marina.
We'll take it a little easy on a warm day for a hike in Briones starting at The long hike continues past the lookout (we'll come back) on Table Top Trail #73, right on Briones Crest #56/#57 and back up the hill. At the junction up near the lookout #74, turn right and throught the gate to the lookout, now you may break. Then double back down Briones Crest, this time staying straight on Briones Crest Trail, right on Old Briones Road #22, left to stay on Old Briones Road #24 to the staging area. Find the trail off to the left of the parking area on the left side of the fence, Pine Tree Trail #25. Continue down the hill to junction of Toyon Canyon Trail, turn right on Pine Tree #27, then first right on Orchard #28. Follow Orchard, cross Briones Road #32, continuing to the parking area.
Starting at 9:30 am from the intersection of Via
Granada and Moraga Road is a 6.5-mile hike around Lafayette Reservoir on the upper rim trail. Park on Via Granada.
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.
Your choice hikes of Starting from the main staging area, we head out Condor, Volvon, and Blue Oak Trails
to descend on Miwok and Manzanita Trails before ascending to Valley View Trail. At this point the two hikes split up
with the short hike turning left on Valley View until reaching the Volvon Trail. Turn left and pass through the gate on Volvon Trail.
Meanwhile the long hike turns right on Valley View Trail, turning right again at Volvon Loop Trail.
Proceeding around Bob Walker Ridge in a counter-clockwise direction on the Volvon Loop and Volvon Trails.
Rejoining the shorter hike after passing through the gate near the Valley View Trail intersection.
Both hikes return along Volvon Trail turning right at the Hummingbird junction then another right after 0.2 mile onto Prairie Falcon Trail.
Following the single track Prairie Falcon Trail around to Volvon Trail. After 140 ft. on Volvon Trail turning right again onto Condor Trail to return to the parking lot.
NOTE DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME ENDS-FALL BACK!! You haven't driven out to Black Diamond in 7 months, it's time for a hike at The long hike continues right just past the backpack camp on Upper Oil Canyon. Climb all the way up to the park boundary, then right up to the power tower for a break. Return down, then right on Oil Canyon Trail. Follow down to the boundary and continue on Lower Oil Canyon. Continue straight on connector to Star Mine Trail, then left on Star Mine Trail. Right on Stewartville, then left on Corcoran Mine. Left on Ridge Trail, right on Stewartville and retrace route back down Stewartville staying straight all the way back to Somersville, then right to the parking area. 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.
Restrooms and water at Bob Pond and Borges Ranch. Dogs OK Your choice of two hikes in EBRPD Redwood Regional Park. Starting from the Wayside Parking Lot, a clockwise loop on Stream, Golden Spike, West Ridge, Orchard, and French Trails.
At the Starflower Trail intersection the short hike descends to Tres Sendas to snack near the intersection with Stream Trail.
Meanwhile the longer hike continues on French Trail to descend Tres Sendas to the above snack spot..
After our snack we return along the Stream and Bridle Trails to the parking lot.
NOTE EARLIER START TIME!! Join us for a hike on Mount Diablo at The medium and long hikes continue to the Sycamore Creek intersection, where you must climb through a washed out creek bed, turning left. Continue straight on Blackhawk Ridge Road up to a 5-way intersection, the hikes diverge here. Short hike will turn hard left on Utility Road. Not quite to the end you will find an unmarked single track trail off to the left, take it. This trail winds up through the chapparal and some great rock formations climbing toward Knobcone Point. When you hit a fire road, turn left on the Utility Road. At the top, turn left on Knobcone Point Road and continue to Balancing Rock for a snack break. Continue on Knobcone Point for 2 miles, then straight onto Curry Canyon Road and through the parking lot at Curry Point. Stay on the right side of South Gate Road, then cross at the crosswalk and continue on Camp Force Trail. Turn left to go down Summit Trail, it will bring you down to South Gate Road, then back to the right. At a junction with Summit, Wall Point Road and the Trail Through Time, continue on Summit down below Sentinel Rock. Continue into the Live Oak Campgrounds. Please stop here and enjoy some baked goods at Steve's campsite (the big one by the fallen Oak Tree). Continue up the campground roadway, then back up the roadway to the start. 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. 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.
Meet at the restrooms about 1/4 mile from the parking area.
Starting at
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 right 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, contiue right on Fairy Lantern Trail, then left onto Stage Road to return to Castle Rock Park.
Water and restrooms at Castle Rock Park and Borges Ranch. 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.
Dogs not allowed in the State Park. No water or restrooms available.
Your choice hikes of Starting from the upper parking lot of Clayton Community Park, we head over the hill on Peacock Creek Trail.
Then it's an out-and back on Mt. Diablo to Black Diamond/Cumberland Trail into the park.
Upon reaching the paved Black Diamond Trail, the short hike can stop for a snack break.
Meanwhile the long hike turns left on the Black Diamond Trail, continuing down to
Nortonville turning right on Coal Canyon back up past Jim's Place, and left on Black Diamond Trail to the snack stop.
Both hikes return from the snack stop on Mt. Diablo to Black Diamond/Cumberland Trail to a left along Clayton Road.
We follow the path next to the road until reaching Diablo View Middle School, turning left to take the hillside trail back up to the community park.
Your choice hikes of Starting from the Bollinger Canyon Staging area, we head UP Rocky Ridge View Trial and Road to near the comm tower where the hikes split up.
The short hike stays left on Rocky Ridge Loop Trail, passing through the gate on the South side of the towers.
Turning right to follow Rocky Ridge View Trail to Elderberry Trail.
Meanwhile the long hike turns right on Rocky Ridge Trail descending into EBMUD property.
At the bottom of the hill turning left on Rocky Ridge Road, passing through two gates before the final descent to Devil's Hole.
From there a left takes us up Devil's Hole Trail to a right on Rocky Ridge View Trail to Elderberry Trail.
Both Hikes leave the Ridge by turning left on Elderberry Trail following it back to the staging area.
NOTE: Please bring and carry your EBMUD hiking permit for this hike!
NOTE EARLIER START TIME!! Help Steve finish his last trail in Wildcat Canyon Regional Park at The hike starts at the end of the parking lot at the trailhead! Route is Wildcat Creek, left on Belgum, stay left at a junction to continue on Belgum, left on Green Ridge (past the San Pablo Ridge Trail on right). Continue through the gate (and out of the park) and keep right until you reach another gate and Old Nimitz Way. (If you reach a neighborhood you went the wrong way). Continue on Old Nimitz. The hike splits here. Short hikers will make a sharp right onto Mezue Trail and down the hill to Wildcat Creek, staying to the right at junctions. Have a break at the picnic area at the bottom. Then continue right on Wildcat Creek all the way back to the start. The long hike turns left on San Pablo Ridge Trail, stopping for a break at the old Nike Missile Site on the hill. Continue on paved Nimitz Way, right on Havey Canyon, right on Wilcat Creek, first right on unsigned trail (Leonard's Trail), left on Mezue rejoining short hikers, right on Wildcat Creek back to the start. Starting at
Route is up the trail from the start point, then left on the Lafayette Rim Trail. Continue 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. 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!! Help Steve finish the southern half of Pleasanton Ridge on a promised-to-be cooler day at The hike starts at #1, right on Oak Tree #2, right on Sycamore Grove #3, u-turn at #4, right on Meadow Pond Trail, right to join Oak Tree, remain on Oak Tree past #5, left on Thermalito #8, left Ridgeline/quick right Wetes #6. Short break here among the trees. Continue to Thermalito junction where the hikes split. Short hike turns right back up Thermalito, continue past 6 & 8 to right on Olive Grove Trail #9, right at #11, right on Ridgeline #10, left back on Oak Tree #5, second right turn on Woodland back to the start. The long hike turns left on Thermalito at the split, u-turn at #7, follow Thermalito all the way back up past 6 & 8 to right on Olive Grove Trail #9, left on Olive Grove #11, right on Olive Grove #12, left on Ridgeline #14, left on #18, left on Thermalito #17, left to Olive Grove #13, straight on Olive Grove #12, Straight on #11, right on Ridgeline #10, left back on Oak Tree #5, second right turn on Woodland back to the start. NOTE EARLIER START TIME!! Let's knock out a few more trails in Sunol Regional on a coolish day at We will gather near the vault toilets near the bridge at the creek. The hike starts on the bridge, right on Ohlone Wilderness Trail, left on Indian Joe Creek Trail (OT14). Right on Cave Rocks Road (SO24), left on Eagle View Road (SO25). The hikes split at the next junction. The short hike turns right down Eagle View Trail (SO27), left on Cave Rocks Road (SO26) to Cerro Este Road (SO33). Stop here for a break. Continue right down Cerro Este, right on Cerro Este at (OT18), right on McCorkle (OT17), right on Canyon View Trail (OT15). Follow back 1/2 mile and backtrack the way we started along the creek to the bridge and back over. The long hike turns left on Eagle View Trail (SO27), right on Vista Grande Road (SO28) out and back to the gate. Turn right on Eagle View Trail (SO28) out and back to the road. Stop for a snack at the end. Return all the way down Eagle View Trail to Cave Rocks Road and rejoin the short hike. Left on Cave Rocks Road (SO26) to Cerro Este Road (SO33). Stop here for a break. Continue right down Cerro Este, right on Cerro Este at (OT18), right on McCorkle (OT17), right on Canyon View Trail (OT15). Follow back 1/2 mile and backtrack the way we started along the creek to the bridge and back over.
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.
The 1-mile out-and-back addition to Rancho Laguna Park is optional here. Turn left through the gate, cross the street to
the right a short distance and continue on the trail to Rancho Laguna Park.
Return for both short and long hikes is 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 hikes of We'll start from the yellow gate just past the Ranger Station onto Juanita Miller, Sinawik, and Sinawik Loop Trails to the lookout point.
We continue back on Sinawik crossing the creek and up the steps to a left on Sunset Trail and a right onto Cinderella Trail to Sequoia Bayview Trail.
Now turning left on Castle Park Trail we cross over Skyline on Scout's Trail to the Moon Gate where the hikes diverge.
The Short hike turns right on West Ridge Trail following it past Chabot Space and Science Center to the the Redwood Bowl to snack.
Meanwhile the long hike turns left on West Ridge Trail to Tres Sendas Trail, descending to a right on French, and Redwood Trails back up to West Ridge Trail and the Redwood Bowl to snack.
After the snack/rest stop both groups return via Roberts Ridge, Pal Camp, and Big Trees Trails to a right turn on Sequoia Bayview Trail following it around to a left descending on Chaparral Trail.
At Sunset Trail turning left to the Palos Colorados Trail Junction where the hikes split again.
The short hike continues along Sunset to the Bridge turning right to ascend back to the parking lot on Juanita Miller trail.
The longer hike will turn right on Palos Colorados Trail along the creek, crossing the bridge, then left back up on Sinawik Trail to the ascent back to the parking lot on Juanita Miller trail.
Your choice hikes of We'll start from the main Sibley staging area down the B.A.R.T. to Old Tunnel Rd before ascending to the Steam Trains in Tilden where we will stop to snack.
The long hike will continue to Volmer peak on Volmer Peak, and Seaview Trails before returning to snack.
Both groups will return the same route after the snack/rest stop.
Please note: There is limited Parking at the Sibley Staging Area, Please Carpool if at all possible.
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!! Help Steve finish his last trails to complete Garin/Dry Creek Parks! Join us for a forecasted cooler day at We will gather at the southern parking lot, first right after the entry kiosk. The hike starts on a connector then straight on Carol Severin Loop along Jordan Pond, right on High Ridge Loop, left on Ridge View, left on Dry Creek and back on Carol Severin Loop on the other side of Jordan Pond. Continue then right up the steep High Ridge Loop fire road. Left on Newt Pond Trail, left Old Homestead, right Vista Peak Loop, right on Vista Peak Loop, left on Vista Peak Loop. All hikes snack under the trees near Vista Peak. Continue to the next intersection where the hikes split. The short hike turns left on Vista Peak loop, then right on Vista Peak loop, then another right on (you guessed it) Vista Peak Loop. Follow back toward the big red barn and check out the museum before heading back into the parking area. The long hike turns right on Vista Peak Loop at the split, then right on Ziele Creek, then right on Garin Woods, and stay right and high on the upper Garin Woods trail. Turn right again on Garin Woods, then left on Ziele Creek Trail, left at the end by the roundabout on Ziele Creek, then left again on Garin Woods Trail, this time taking the left on lower Garin Woods trail. Continue straight back out to Ziele Creek again, this time turning right. Turn left on Vista Peak Loop, then left on Vista Peak Loop, then (you guessed it) right on Vista Peak loop. Follow back toward the big red barn and check out the museum before heading back into the parking area. An up to 8.5 Mile/1500 ft Out-and-Back hike of EBMUD Ramage Peak Trail. This mostly wooded single track trail winds its way from EBMUD Chabot Staging Area to EBRPD Las Trampas Regional Park.
The plan is to hike as far as Miller Road where we will stop for a snack break before returning on the same trail. Sorry: No Dogs Allowed on the Ramage Peak Trail
Meet at Arbolado Park at the restrooms near the tennis courts for a hike in Walnut Creeks Lime Ridge Open Space.
Starting at 9:00 am from Arbolado Park is a choice of a 6-mile or 8-mile hike.
Route will be the Ohlone Trail, left onto the Blue Oak Trail, through the Ygnacio Valley Road tunnel, right on unnamed
trail by Bayberry Pond, right onto the Lime Ridge Trail through the northerly Ygnacio Valley Road tunnel.
The long hike turns left on the Buckeye Trail, continues right on the Ohlone Trail, then right on the Ridge Trail to the
rest/snack stop at the top of the Lime Ridge Trail.
The short hike continues on the Lime Ridge Trail to the rest/snack stop at the top of the Lime Ridge Trail.
Both hikes continue on the Lime Ridge Trail, right onto the Manzanita Trail, right onto the Paraiso Trail, short right jog at
bottom of hill, then left onto the Ohlone Trail to return to Arbolado Park.
Restrooms, water and plenty of parking at Arbolado Park.
NOTE EARLIER START TIME!! Join us for a hike and our annual We will start up Old San Pablo Road and Trail and continue following the Bay Area Ridge Trail into Kennedy Grove. We will take Laurel Loop, then a right to stay on Laurel Loop. (The long hikers will take a short detour straight onto Kennedy Creek Trail, then a hard left on an unnamed trail then double back to the Laurel Loop). We will continue around the boundary onto Lower Sea Foam, then right on Upper Sea Foam past the View Point. Turn right on Black Oak trail. (The long hike will make the next right on a short out and back to the fence). Continue straight onto Black Oak Loop. At the next junction all hikers will stop for a break. The short hikers will turn left and another left on Black Oak Loop, then straight onto Black Oak, straight onto Kennedy Creek, straight onto Laurel Loop and back to the parking area and then return the way we came on Old San Pablo Trail and Road. After the break, the long hike will continue straight to trail's end, turn around and then keep right on Black Oak Loop. In order to do every trail you will need to do the short connector between the 2 loops (left up to the break spot, turn around and come back) and continue on Black Oak Loop to Black Oak Trail. Straight on Kennedy Creek, left on Lower Sea Foam, right at the junction and back toward Laurel Loop, then left on a side trail to the overflow parking area. Head up to the lawn area, do a counter-clockwise loop around the lawn then back the way we came in on Old San Pablo Trail and Road to the start. Clear as mud? A moderate 6.9 mile, 700 ft stroll along the SF Bay Trail and a bit of up and down in EBRPD Miller/Knox Regional Shoreline.
We'll visit all the highlights including Ferry Point, False Gun, and Nicholl Knob, as well as a view across to the Red Oak Victory Ship.
Our route will start from the first parking lot, across the street from Richmond Ramblers Motorcycle Clubhouse, along the SF Bay Trail to Ferry Point.
We will continue on the Bay Trail/Brickyard Cove Road to Point Potrero to a lookout on the Bay.
Doubling back to take the Bay Trail along Canal Blvd to 500 ft past Seacliff Dr to East Trail.
(Look for the single track after 340 feet. Do not continue up the paved fire road.)
Following East Trail to ascend Crest Trail to False Gun for a snack stop and great view of the bay.
We then descend on West Ridge Trail to West Ridge Point where we pick up Old Country Road Trail.
After traversing the park on Old Country Road we ascend to the North on Crest Trail to Nicholl Knob.
We then go down the hill to Marine View Trail back to Old Country Road, up and over the Dornan Drive tunnel to descend to the SF Bay Trail back to the Parking Lot.
Bring your EBMUD permit. Those without a permit can be a guest of a hiker that has one.
Starting at 9:00 am from EBMUD Valle Vista Staging Area is a moderate 6.7-mile 1400-ft elevation gain hike.
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 in the (hopefully) Cool Canyons and Ridges of Cull Canyon at We will gather at the far end of the upper parking lot. The hike continues down and around under the roadway and right on the Chabot-to-Garin Regional Trail. After two miles you will come to a small open pasture with some houses to the left. Walk through the pasture and find a gate on the right. This is a horse gate and the horses are usually right there! It is vital to double lock this gate the way you found it AFTER EVERY HIKER. If you are in a small group, wait until you are all ready to pass through, and then go in a group and lock the gate immediately behind you. The horse owner will give you the evil eye, ignore him but LOCK THE GATE. The short hike will have a break and then turn around at the EBMUD cattle gate a mile beyond the horse gate. Retrace your steps back. The long hike will continue into EBMUD 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 flour arrows. Your choice of two hikes in EBRPD Redwood and Roberts Regional Parks with a bonus portion in Joaquin Miller Park, Starting from the MacDonald Staging area, heading over to Big Bear before crossing Redwood Road to
Golden Spike, Dunn, Sequoia Bayview, Big Trees, Pal Camp and Roberts Ridge Trails and the Redwood Bowl for our snack stop.
After the snack break we follow West Ridge Trail to the Redwood Peak/Madrone intersection.
At this point the two hikes split up.
The short hike will follow West Ridge Trail back to near the end of the ridge turning right onto Golden Spike Trail
and McDonald Trails to the cars. (Note: Do not follow West Ridge around to the left to Bridle Trail)
The longer hike will turn left onto Madrone Trail, descending to French Trail, back up on Orchard Trail
to West Ridge following the short route back to the cars on Golden Spike Trail.
Note: MacDonald Staging Area is a small lot just off Redwood Road.
Please park efficiently. Some additional Parking(13 sp) is available just West at Big Bear Staging Area.
We'll hike from the Bear Creek side of Briones starting at The long hike turns left on Briones Crest #71 then straight onto Sunrise Trail #58. At the end turn right on Upper Buckeye Ranch, then left across the creek 1/4 mile in. Turn right on Lower Buckeye Ranch along the creek. Once you come to the junction of both Buckeye Ranch trails turn left and enjoy your climb to Lafayette Ridge. Turn right on Lafayette Ridge #68 for a steep climb up to a left on Russell Peak trail #69. Find a single track 1/4 mile down on the left to the peak and enjoy a break at the table. Follow the short route back. Starting at
Route is up the trail from the start point, then left on the Lafayette Rim Trail. Continue 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. 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.
We haven't climbed Burma in several years, it will be a coolish June day to do so starting at The long hike stays on Burma Road crossing North Gate Roadway and straight up the hill. Turn right on Angel Kerley Road, left on Mother's Trail and pass the goldfish pond. Turn left on Burma Road and follow it to Moses Rock Spring for a break. Continue down Burma turning right to continue down the way you came up and cross North Gate. Turn left on Buckeye and follow short route back.
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.
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 Dry Creek/Pioneer and Garin Regional Parks, Starting from the May Road Staging area we head up May Road Trail, right on High Ridge Loop Trail taking it all the way around to the Red Barn for our snack stop.
After the snack break we follow Dry Creek Trail past Jordan Pond to Meyers Ranch Trail.
At this point the two hikes split up.
The short hike will head South on Meyers Ranch Trail back to High Ridge Loop and May Road Trails to the cars.
The longer hike will turn left on Meyers Ranch Trail to Pioneer Trail, descending on High Ridge Trail back to May Road and the cars.
Your choice of two hikes in EBRPD Tilden/Wildcat Regional Parks, Starting from the Tilden Nature Center Parking lot, near the playground, we head toward Wildcat Peak.
We'll take Loop Road, Pine Tree Trail, Laurel Canyon Trail, the scenic 'Rabbit Run' Trail, Laurel Canyon Road, and Wildcat Peak Trail.
We cross into Wildcat Canyon Park on Nimitz Way, At the Conlon Trail Junction the two hikes split up.
The short hike turns left on Conlon Trail, stopping to snack at the bench just off Conlon Trail before the Gate.
After the snack we head South on a NoName Trail over to Wildcat Peak Trail, descending on Wildcat Creek Trail to Sylvan, and Jewel Lake Trails.
At Jewel Lake, taking a slight right near the Dam to follow Jewel Lake Trail along the boardwalk back to Wildcat Creek Trail past the Nature Center to the Parking Lot.
The longer hike will turn right on Nimitz Way descending on Havey Canyon Trail to Wildcat Creek Trail, then turning left back up Conlon Trail.
Passing through the gate at the top of the hill, and turning right to snack at the bench. From there we rejoin the short hike route back to the parking lot.
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.
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.
Help Steve cross the entire Anthony Chabot Park off his list at The medium and long hikes stay on Goldenrod. The medium hike turns left on Columbine, then left on Cascade. Find a nice spot here for a snack. Continue on Cascade, right on Brandon at Stone Bridge, left on Deer Canyon, cross Marciel Road and left on Redtail back to the parking area. The long hike continues on Goldenrod then left on Bass Cove Trail. Find a shady spot for a break before continuing to Columbine, left. Straight/Right on Cascade and follow the medium hike directions back from here. A two-for-one hike along the East shore of Lake Del Valle. We'll enjoy the last of 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.
Join the festivities for the First Annual Mount Diablo Discovery Day open house and hike! Join us for a destination hike from the Curry Point parking area up to the Summit of Diablo where you can take time to explore the Summit Museum and attend our Mount Diablo Discovery Day event at the Lower Summit! Live Birds and Reptiles, animal pelts and bones, live horses and free giveaways. VISIT mdia.org/events for more info. Catch amazing views and diverse habitats as you take a strenuous climb up to the Summit of Diablo from Curry Point. The hike is 8.2 miles round trip with an elevation gain of 2500 feet. Park at the Curry Point parking lot. Hike leaves promptly at 9:00. A one hour stop at the summit will allow you to enjoy the event before being guided back down. This hike is for fit and experienced hikers and not suitable for young children. Allow 5 hours. There will be information and activity booths showcasing the park's fascinating wild creatures, history, and ways people enjoy visiting it today. Discover the variety of wildlife that calls the park home, meet live local birds of prey, learn how some of our volunteers roam the trails on horseback, and see how astronomers view the heavens from the mountain's heights. Volunteers will also be on hand at the Summit Visitor Center to answer questions as you step onto the viewing deck to take in the incredible views that reach from the Sierra Nevada to the east and to San Francisco and the Golden Gate in the west. 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.
Restrooms and water at Bob Pond and Borges Ranch. Dogs OK.
Let's spend Memorial Day Sunday hiking in Morgan Territory at The long hike turns right on Eagle Trail and follows it 1.5 miles to its end where you may take a break before heading back the same way, rejoining the short hike route. A middle option is to take the long hike but turn back at the intersection with Bay Creek Trail for a 7.5 mile/1260' option. Your choice of We'll start by the toilets in Diamond Park, hiking along Sausal and Palo Seco Creeks into Joaquin Miller Park
on Dimond Canyon, Old Canon, Bridgeview, and Palos Colorados Trails. We'll then follow Sinawik and Sunset Trails to the snack stop above the restrooms.
While the short route hikers stop to snack, the long hike group heads up to Sequoia Bayview Trail on Fern Ravine Trail,
looping around to descend on Sunset Trail back to the snack stop.
All hikers will return along Palo Seco Creek via Sunset and Palos Colorados Trails into Diamond Park,
returning along Sausal Creek the same trails as our outbound path.
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 Let's hike earlier in the day and the day before Mother's Day on Saturday at The long hike returns back to Black Point Trail and breaks there before climbing to the peak. Turn left on Black Point Trail and follow all the way back to Mitchell Canyon Road, left back to the parking area. A moderate+ 8.7 mile, 1000 ft gain hike of EBRPD's Lake Chabot.
We'll start near the toilets across from the Marina concession stand. We'll head around the lake in a counter clockwise direction keeping the Lake on our left side.
We'll take East Shore, Cameron Loop, Honker Bay, Columbine, Bass Cove, and West Shore Trails on our adventure around the Lake Chabot.
Meet at the restrooms about 1/4 mile from the parking area.
Starting at 9:30 am from Castle Rock Park is a short approx 6.4-mile or longer 7.7-mile hike.
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.
Help us celebrate Joel and Dan's birthday and join us at The long hike turns right on Chamise, then right on Mahogany, rejoining Chamise to the right. Stay straight/slight left on Las Trampas Ridge, left on connector trail to Bollinger Creek Loop. Keep straight to the T then left. Stay to your right on the west side of Bollinger Creek Loop back to the parking area. A challenging 10 mile, 2200 ft out-and-back hike from EBRPD Sunol Regional Wilderness to EBRPD Mission Peak.
We'll start by the toilets across from the Wilderness Sign-in Panel and head up Ohlone Wilderness, Laurel Loop, Eagle and Peak Trails to a snack on the Peak. The return route will retrace our steps back to Sunol.
For the less adventuresome, the hike to Eagle Spring Backpack Camp provides an easier option at about 9 miles, 1800 ft of elevation gain.
TIP: There is plenty of Parking on the right, past the sign-in panel, near the horse corral/ Ohlone Wilderness trail-head.
Note: Everyone must carry a current Ohlone Wilderness Permit Map ($2 at the Kiosk, good for a year) on this hike. Starting at
Route is up the trail from the start point, then left on the Lafayette Rim Trail. Continue 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. 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.
We will look for seemingly elusive wildflowers on a sunny day at Briones. Join us at The medium and long hikes also turn right, then left on Briones Crest (you never actually left it), and then a right on Lagoon. Stop at the Sindicich Lagoon for a snack break before continuing down lagoon. Stay right at the split onto Toyon Canyon. The hikes make a final split at Pine Tree Trail. The medium hike continues straight onto Pine Tree, then right at the next junction to stay on Pine Tree. Stay straight right onto Orchard, crossing the paved road and continuing back to the start. The long hike makes a hard right turn on Pine Tree following it up toward the road, but staying on the right side of the gate all the way up toward the restrooms. Continue up on Old Briones Road, left on Spengler, left Alhambra Trail back to the start. You may choose the gravel road on the left of the creek, or find the sometimes treacherous single track on the right side of the creek. Your choice of two hikes in EBRPD Redwood Regional Park, Starting from the Redwood Bowl Parking lot we head over to Roberts Ridge and West Ridge Trails where the two hikes split up.
The short hike will descend on Madrone Trail to French, Chown, Bridle and Stream Trails to take their snack break at Trails End.
The longer hike will descend on Redwood Peak, French, and Tres Sendas Trails before ascending Starflower to Madrone Trail to follow the short hike
to the snack break at Trails End.
Both hikes return via Bridle and Orchard Trails, before splitting up once again. The short hike continues up Orchard, turning right on West Ridge Trail to return to the Redwood Bowl Lot.
The long hike follows French Trail to Chown turning left up to West Ridge Trail to return to the Redwood Bowl Lot.
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.
Dogs not allowed in the State Park. No water or restrooms available. We will look for more wildflowers on a sunny day out off Finley Road in Morgan Territory/Mt. Diablo State Parks. Join us at The long hike stay on Sulphur Springs, then right for an optional 1/2 mile out and back on No Name Trail. Continue on Sulphur Springs past the second Black Hills junction, then left on Grizzly Trail. Continue straight on Jeremiah Trail to the ridge. Turn left on Highland Ridge Trail and snack near the gate. Continue into Mount Diablo State Park then left on Crestview, right on Amphitheater Trail, straight onto Walnut Trail, left on Old Finley and straight on back to the cars. Your choice of two hikes in EBRPD Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park, Starting from the Castleridge Trailhead, route will be up Courdet, Ridgeline, and Shady Creek Trails to Marker #33.
Then North Ridge Trail to Markers #34 and #35 where the two hikes split up.
The short hike will descend on Loop Trail to #36, Turtle Pond Trail to #30, and Sinbad Creek Trail, stopping to take their snack break near Marker #29 before returning.
The longer hike will continue on North Ridge Trail to Markers #37, #38 and #39, turning left on Mariposa Trail to #31.
Now we follow Sinbad Creek Trail past Marker #30, before taking their snack break at Marker #29.
Both hikes return to the Staging Area via Shady Creek, Ridgeline and Courdet Trails.
Meet at Arbolado Park at the restrooms near the tennis courts for a hike in Walnut Creeks Lime Ridge Open Space.
Starting at 9:30 am from Arbolado Park is a choice of a 6-mile or 8-mile hike.
Route will be the Ohlone Trail, left onto the Blue Oak Trail, through the Ygnacio Valley Road tunnel, right on unnamed trail by Bayberry Pond, right onto the Lime Ridge Trail through the northerly Ygnacio Valley Road tunnel.
The long hike turns left on the Buckeye Trail, continues right on the Ohlone Trail, then right on the Ridge Trail to the rest/snack stop at the top of the Lime Ridge Trail near the antennas.
The short hike continues on the Lime Ridge Trail to the rest/snack stop on top of the ridge near the antennas.
Both hikes continue on the Lime Ridge Trail, right onto the Manzanita Trail, right onto the Paraiso Trail, short right jog at bottom of hill, then left onto the Ohlone Trail to return to Arbolado Park.
Restrooms, water and plenty of parking at Arbolado Park.
Luck will be on our side! The trails will dry out, the flowers will explode, the Sierras will be in full view, the weather will be perfect, and there will be cupcakes. I guarantee at least one of those. Join us at The long hike turns left on Ridge Trail all the way to end, following down to the right on Chapparal Loop near the Tower of Power. Go over bridge, right on Manhattan Canyon, right on Nortonville, left on Somersville back to cars. Your choice of two hikes in EBRPD Briones Regional Park, Starting from the Lafayette Ridge Staging Area an out-and-back on the Lafayette Ridge Trail to Russell Peak. The short hike will stop to take their snack break at the table on Russell Peak before returning.
The longer hike will make a counter-clockwise loop on Russell Peak and Mariposa Trails before taking for their snack break at the Peak.
Both hikes return to the Staging Area along the Lafayette Ridge Trail.
Meet at the restrooms about 1/4 mile from the parking area.
Starting at 9:30 am from Castle Rock Park is a moderate approx. 7-mile 1500-ft elevation gain hike to the Livorna Staging Area.
Route will be Stage Road, right on Fairly Lantern Trail, left to continue to a left on Buckeye Ravine Trail 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 back on Foothill Trail, continuing on Foothill Trail to a left onto 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.
Water and restrooms at Castle Rock Park.
Let's hike to the top of Mount Diablo, with a head start from a quarter of the way up! We will be starting at Route leaves from Curry Point on Camp Force Trail, straight onto Summit Trail. Follow Summit Trail all the way up until you come to Green Ranch Road. You will see the Summit Trail off to the left just past some pumping gear. When you get to the water tank, the hikes diverge. There is a toilet at this junction. The short hike will hang a right onto Green Ranch Road at the Old Pioneer Horse Camp. Follow it down until you come to Oak Knoll Trail, turn right and take the trail back up. You will come out at the Oak Knoll Picnic Area, have a break. Take the trail back up the mountain a little ways until you find Green Ranch Road again. Turn left and cross the road and follow your tracks back to the cars. The long hike turns left to stay on Summit Trail, keep on it up to Devil's Elbow and stay left until you pop out at the lower summit parking lot. Turn right and find the trail in between the two roads leading to the summit. Once at the summit be sure to go inside and visit our store and museum and to stand on the actual peak! Retrace your steps back to the lower summit lot, then walk all the way to the far end near the tower to find Juniper Trail. Take it all the way down to the Juniper Campground. Turn right and walk down the campground road until you pass the restrooms. Head through the gate onto Deer Flat Road a short distance, then left on Juniper Trail. Follow Juniper until you reach Summit Trail. Turn right and retrace your steps back to the cars. Your choice of two hikes in EBRPD Redwood Regional Park, We Start from the Wayside lot, heading up Canyon and East Ridge Trails to the Skyline Gate, where the two hikes split up. The short hike descends on Stream Trail, optionally stopping to snack at Trails end.
The longer hike will take West Ridge, French, Starflower, Madrone, French, and Chown Trails to Stream Trail and Trails End for their snack break.
Both hikes continue along Stream Trail back to the 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 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.
The 1-mile out-and-back addition to Rancho Laguna Park is optional here. Turn left through the gate, cross the street to
the right a short distance and continue on the trail to Rancho Laguna Park.
Return for both short and long hikes is 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.
Will it be 4 rainy hikes in a row for Steve? We are going to hike in the mud/rain/snow/cold anyway! Join us at Mitchell Canyon in Mount Diablo State Park starting at Route leaves from the lower parking area up Bruce Lee Trail, right on Watertower Road, left on Oak Road, straight on Coulter Pine, right on Bruce Lee Rd., right on Back Creek, left on Tickwood, right on Donner Canyon Road to the end. Short hike turns left up Cardinet Oaks Rd. up past the Falls Trail turnoff to take a break. Continue right on Wasserman, right/straight on Donner Trail, straight onto Bruce Lee Springs Trail, right on Hetherington and across the creek. There is NO bridge. Turn right on Donner Canyon Rd., left on Murchio Rd., right on Bruce Lee Road passing Coulter Pond. Turn left on Watertower and right on Bruce Lee Trail to the start/finish. The long hike turns right on Meridian Ridge Road, left on Middle Trail, straight onto Falls Trail. We will take a break along the way and continue on Falls Trail to a right on Cardinet Oaks. Follow the short route back. Your choice of two hikes in EBRPD Sunol Regional Wilderness Starting near the toilets across from the Ohlone Sign-in panel, we cross the bridge onto Canyon View, Indian Joe, Cave Rocks Road, and Cerro Este Road Trails.
The two hikes split up at Ohlone Trail Marker OT18, with the short hike descending along Cerro Este Road to the Little Yosemite Area for the snack break.
The longer hike will take McCorkle, Backpack Road, and Camp Ohlone Trails to Little Yosemite Area for the snack break.
Both hikes head back up Cerro Este Road for a bit to take Canyon View Trail back to the Staging Area.
Starting at 9:30 am from Shell Ridge Bob Pond entrance is a moderate 6.5-mile 1400-ft elevation gain hike with the option to extend it to 7.5 miles.
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. Diaablo Trail. Left on Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail, pass the first Buckeye Ravine Trail then right on the second Buckeye Ravine 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 on Stage Road, right on Fairy Lantern trail, left on Buckeye Ravine Trail, right on Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail, right on Ridge Top Trail, right on Costanoan Trail. The short hike continues downhill 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.
Water and restrooms at Bob Pond and Borges Ranch. Dogs OK on the trails.
I have lucked out in getting to plan three rainy day hikes in a row. Join us once again in the Redwoods for a partially rainy, partly muddy hike starting at Route is connector up to West Ridge, right on Graham, right on Dunn, left on Golden Spike, right at the top on Golden Spike/Montiero, continue on Golden Spike. Short hike turns left up Tate Trail to West Ridge where you will take a break. The long hike continues on Golden Spike, left on Toyon, left on West Ridge, to the junction of Tate where you will also break. Both hikes continue on West Ridge, right on Chown, left on French. Short hike turns left up the steep Fern trail to West Ridge, right all the way to Redwood Bowl. Take the stairs across from the restrooms and retrace back to the cars. The long hike turns right down Fern, left on Stream, left on Mill, left on French, right up Fern, right on West Ridge to the Bowl. Your choice of two hikes in Contra Costa Watershed's Los Vaqueros Reservoir Starting from the Kellogg Creek Recreation Area we head up to Eagle Ridge on Walnut, Mortero, Rancho, and Kit Fox Trails.
The short hike can stop to snack here before returning on Kit Fox, Grassland, Greasewood and Walnut Trails.
The longer hike will continue ascending, to return on Eagle Ridge, Vista Grande, Los Vaqueros, Interpretive, Kellogg Creek, and Walnut Trails.
Your choice of two hikes in Contra Costa Watershed's Los Vaqueros Reservoir Starting from the Kellogg Creek Recreation Area we head up to Eagle Ridge on Walnut, Mortero, Rancho, and Kit Fox Trails.
The short hike can stop to snack here before descending/returning on Eagle Ridge and Walnut Trails.
The longer hike will continue ascending to return on Eagle Ridge, Vista Grande, Mariposa Canyon and Walnut Trails.
Meet at the restrooms about 1/4 mile from the parking area.
Starting at 9:30 am from Castle Rock Park is almost a 7-mile hike to Borges Ranch.
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, contiue right on Fairy Lantern Trail, then left onto Stage Road to return to Castle Rock Park.
Water and restrooms at Castle Rock Park and Borges Ranch.
Join us after a very soggy week in the East Bay for a loopy hike through a minimally muddy? Joaquin Miller in Oakland. Starting at Route is connector across the creek and right on Sunset Trail. Follow all the way to the end, then left on Sequoia-Bayview. After 1/2 mile make a hard right on Big Trees. Follow up and around to the right and back down parallel to Skyline Blvd. Turn right on Sequoia-Bayview, then left on Palos Colorados back down to the creek. Turn left on Sunset briefly, then right on Harold Ireland Trail. Continue straight onto Fern Ravine and up the creekside. Continue on Fern Ravine crossing over Seqouia-Bayview and left past Orchard. Take a single track across the creek at a split rail fence to stay on Fern Ravine. At the top you will find a picnic area, take a break! Continue across roadway on a connector heading left onto Cinderella Trail. Take this trail all the way down to its end, then head straight onto Sunset, then right down a trail toward a set of stairs and the Sinawik Cabin remains. Stay on the left side of the creek (no bridge) on Upper Sinawik Trail. Follow all the way along creek until you reach the bridge over the creek to the right. Turn right off the bridge on Lower Sinawik back along the other side of the creek. Follow this all the way up past the first bridge and continue climbing. Stay right at a junction and loop around to the left to the Lookout. Enjoy the view. The SHORT hike will return to the junction and turn right onto Sinawik Loop. At the end, turn right back up the first connector trail we started the day on and return to the Start. The LONG hike turns left (instead of right) on Sinawik Trail after visiting the Lookout for a short 1/2 mile out and back. Rejoin the short hike back to the start. Continue the hike by turning right and staying to the right on the roadway working your way back to the Lookout and passing the Browning and Moses Monuments and the Funeral Pyre. Pass the Lookout and continue down the roadway passing the Fire Circle and Miller Statue. Once you meet Joaquin Miller Road, turn right to visit the Abbey, then turn around and walk up passed the playground. Head left up The Cascade toward the Woodminster Theatre. Find the road again and walk passed the Dog Park and back to the start. Your choice of two hikes in EBRPD Redwood Regional Park. Starting from the Wayside Parking Lot, a clockwise loop on Stream, Golden Spike, West Ridge, Orchard, and French Trails.
At the Starflower Trail intersection the short hike descends to Tres Sendes to snack near the intersection with Stream Trail.
Meanwhile the longer hike continues on French Trail to descend Tres Sendas to the above snack spot..
After our snack we return along the Stream and Bridle Trails to the parking lot.
Starting at 9:30 am from Shell Ridge Bob Pond entrance is a moderate 7-mile 1400-ft elevation gain 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.
Water and restrooms at Bob Pond. Dogs OK on the trails.
Join us for a 4 Park Hopper through Redwood, Huckleberry, Sibley, and Joaquin Miller in Oakland. It should be dry, though previous day's rain may have produced some mud. Starting at Route is connector towards Redwood Bowl, left on West Ridge for several miles, continue past Skyline Gate on East Ridge Trail, then left onto the Bay Area Ridge Trail (BART). Continue across Pinehurst Road and on towards Huckleberry. At a Y, stay right past the Huckleberry Path turnoff to stay on the BART. After .4 miles turn left on a connector trail up to Huckleberry Path. At the top, turn right and follow all the way down toward the staging area. The short hike will continue straight and stop here for a break. All hikes continue right down the Huckleberry Path (the short hike will turn left after returning from the staging area). Short hike turns right at the T onto the BART. Retrace your path back along the BART all the way back to East Ridge. Turn right and retrace your path all the way back to the MOON GATE. Here you may either stay left and retrace your steps back to the car, or turn right and take the optional route into Joaquin Miller. They are both the same, Joaquin Miller is prettier, but may be more difficult to navigate without arrows. Veer left along the roadway staying on the trail and curving around to the left and crossing Skyline Blvd. Stay straight on Castle Park Trail, NOT down. Continue along to stay straight onto Sequoia-Bayview until you come to Skyline Blvd., cross and return to the parking area. The medium and long hike turn left onto the BART trail, then another left further down to continue on the BART. The medium hike will climb .8 mile until you come to the boundary of Sibley Park, take a break, make a u-turn and follow your steps back along the BART, follow the Short Route back to the start. The long hike continues into Sibley, turning left on Round Top Loop Trail. Follow signs to the Backpack Camp straight past the Water Tank road where there are restrooms and a break spot. Retrace back and continue (left) on the Round Top Loop Trail continuing to make right turns on the loop until you reach the BART again. Retrace your steps back, eventually joining the same route as the short hike and back to the cars. |
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