Hike to Eagle Peak

Start the hike at the Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center, which is also a popular starting point for those who brave the trek to the summit of Mt. Diablo. At the visitor center you can buy things like the detailed map and get information from the ranger. Clean bathrooms are also located at this trailhead. 

Springtime is probably the best time to see various wildflowers in bloom. In the summer its best to start early in the morning to avoid the heat - many parts of the trail is out in the open with little shade. Also, poison oak is everywhere! Stay on the trails to avoid brushing up against the poison oak. Unfortunately, this trail is not dog friendly :(

The hike begins on Mitchell Canyon Trail towards Deer Flat Trail. Once you enter the trailhead you can pick up an interpretive guide to the Mitchell Canyon Trail which describes various wildlife, wildflowers and trees numbered along the first 2 miles of the trail. Pretty nifty. After 2 miles, get your legs ready for a little (read: steep) climb for the next 1.72 miles. After hiking 3.72 miles on the dirt fireroad, stay left on the junction (going right leads to Juniper Campground via Deer Flat Trail). 

After 4.6 miles, you reach Murchio Gap. It may make a good spot to take a breather and scramble up some rocks for some fun pictures. Here on the left is also the start of Eagle Peak Trail, where you will continue the hike. Its narrow, steep at certain parts, and dense chaparral is on either side of the trail. After a heart pumping climb, you've reached Eagle Peak at 5.02 miles! 

Enjoy the 360 views of the Bay Area, take epic photos, then continue straight on the trail after you've soaked up the epicness of reaching the peak. The descent down is steep and very rocky in some places, so take caution hiking down! Follow the signs pointing out Mitchell Rock Trail. At 7.64 miles, take the junction on the left: Oak Road to Mitchell Canyon Road. Stay on the left/straight to continue on Oak Road, and turn right at the following junction onto Mitchell Canyon Road. 

To fuel up after your awesome hike, grab a delicious New York deli style Sandwich at Canesa's Brooklyn Heroes located in the cute little town of Clayton!