Union City, California

This hike is best done in the late fall, winter, and spring so that the creek is running and the hills are green. Starting at the preserve parking lot, the first half of the hike is predominantly downhill. At the main trailhead, start in the direction of the Stevens Creek Nature Trail, as told by...

This hike can be done at any time of year. Hiking in winter and spring means that many varieties of wildflowers will be present, and the creek will have much more water. Summer and fall mean higher temperatures and drier conditions, but the hike is still a pleasant experience. Begin the hike at ...

Located near Walnut Creek, the trail is easily accessible from anywhere in the Bay Area. The trail is kept open year-round, and happens to be part of the American Discovery Trail and the Coast to Crest trail. If you are not done hiking, connecting trails allow you to summit Mt. Diablo.  This tra...

Lafayette Reservoir is perfect for canoeing, mountain biking, trail running, and hiking. The Reservoir trail system is also used for nature walks and birding. The loop has several high points that have amazing views. The trails become very muddy after wet weather - so tread with caution.  Th...

Russian Ridge offers a great place to jump on the trail and in the right season, see some of the best wildflowers blooming. On top of that, you get access to amazing views from the ridge. Once you get your parking space, jump on the Ridge Trail and start gaining a little elevation while you head...

This loop hike will provide people with the opportunity to experience the tranquility of the lower canyons of the preserve, which tend to be more isolated than the heavier-trafficked trails that are closer to the main highway. Be warned that this hike is fairly strenuous because of the large amo...

From the trailhead at Stonewall Road, the 1.5-mile trail makes for an excellent before or after-work run. But the steep hills and loose ground aren’t for those looking to find an easy nature walk. The incline starts well before the Stonewall-Panoramic trailhead, so you won’t even have time to w...

The Panoramic Hill, Chaparral Peak, and Strawberry Canyon Loop in Berkeley, California is a moderately challenging hiking trail that spans approximately 6 miles. The trail is known for its steep inclines and declines, making it a suitable choice for intermediate to advanced hikers. The trail be...

Bayview Hill Loop is a loop trail that starts with a paved uphill climb and views of the bay facing toward the East Bay located in the Bayview neighborhood of San Francisco, California.

The Southern Lime Ridge Loop is a trail system located near Walnut Creek, CA. There is a parking lot at the trailhead located across the street from the Boundary Oak Golf Course. The trail is fairly exposed with limited shade, so bring appropriate sun protection especially on the warmer days.  D...

Winter and spring rains create scenic waterfalls in this hike at Mount Diablo, the East Bay's signature peak. Be careful hiking immediately post-rain, watch for slippery sections of mud. The trail is moderately difficult and is used by hikers, walking groups, trail runners, and for nature trips. ...

Starting from the parking lot on Sneath Lane Trail, you’ll head through the gate and continue on the path up Sweeney Ridge. This is a 5.7 mile out-and-back trek. There is a 600 ft. elevation gain, which comes mainly in the first 1.5 miles of the trail. Your legs and lungs may hurt a bit, but if t...

Briones Reservoir Loop: Bear Creek, Oursan, Hampton Trails is a loop trail that takes you by a lake located near Lafayette, California.

The trail is dog and horse friendly, and many trail loops make Tilden Regional Park fun for families and those of any skill level. The Seaview and Big Springs Trail loop is typically used by avid hikers, trail runners, or mountain bikers. The first half of the trail is exposed to the sun and rock...

From Inspiration Point, head toward Nimitz gate. Once you pass through the gate, keep an eye out for Curran Trailhead; this is the trail you'll be starting on. After about 1/8 of a mile, you'll reach a junction with the Meadows Canyon Trail. Turn right onto this trail to continue the loop. This p...

Montara Mountain Trail is a loop trail that takes you through a forest out to ocean views at the top of Montara Mountain. This hike located near Pacifica, California. and can be accessed from Highway 1 as well. If you're looking to do a similar loop hike from the coast, consider Montara Mountain ...