There’s a lot to love about hiking. If you have shoes, you’re fully equipped, but if you want to ride a bike, go for it. And there are no age or size limitations – plus you can bring a nice picnic lunch in a backpack.
Last month we asked readers to tell us about their favorite hikes and they responded with a rich array of excellent options. Here are some of the
most popular:
Huckleberry Loop Trail in Oakland Hills (7087 Skyline Blvd, Oakland)
Sophie Zhuang calls this “a quiet, shaded retreat in the Oakland hills,” just six miles from downtown Orinda. The moderate 1.7-mile loop winds through a rare native plant preserve, with interpretive signs showcasing unique local flora. Go in spring for vibrant wildflowers; summer offers cool, shaded paths. She recommends going early to enjoy the morning light and avoid the crowds. The trail includes some uneven and slightly steep sections, so sturdy shoes are a good idea.
Bear Creek Trail from the Overlook Staging Area on Bear Creek Road along the south side of Briones Reservoir
Jim Finefrock loves the “spectacular views of the reservoir and surrounding hills” on this forested hike up and then down a gentle hill going out (and again coming back). “Sometimes you can spot racing shells practicing on the reservoir,” he says. Carl Ludwig, who leads a group of senior men on two hikes monthly, also recommends this hike, especially in dry weather. An East Bay Municipal Water District trail pass is required, available online. To the top of the hill and back, it’s roughly 3.75 miles round-trip — or, go all the way to the gate where the trail leaves the forest, about 7 miles total.
The Alamo, Stage, Little Yosemite Valley Loop Trail in Diablo Foothills Regional Park – 6.5 miles
Alec Binnie recommends doing this “a few days after a good spring rain for the cinematic views of Mt Diablo, the rolling lime green hills, and the chance to spot a peregrine falcon against the rocky cliffs.” But be prepared for the 1,100 feet of elevation gains.
Mulholland Open Space loop from 2100 Donald Drive
“I have no sense of direction,” says Emi Yoshida, “and yet I never have to worry about getting lost. If I walk fast I can do three miles in an hour.” She loves all the animals she’s seen along the way. Ludwig recommends that hike for wet weather, as it is totally paved (“no mud or cars!) and calls out the “splendid views of Orinda, Moraga and Mt. Diablo.”
De La Veaga Trail, Camino Pablo in downtown Orinda, near the freeway entrance
My personal favorite, this hike is a rewarding workout with stellar views of Mt. Diablo over downtown Orinda. A steep 1.8-mile climb takes you to up to a gate at the top. Keep going through Siesta Valley (and back up again on the other side) and you’ll wind up at Tilden. Cool weather is the best time to go. You’ll need an EBMUD permit, though.