Old Briones Road Trail

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Old Briones Road Trail is a north-south trail that bisects the park and provides access to many of the other trails in the area. If you are planning a hike in the park, you'll probably start from one of the developed trailheads at either end of this road and use part or all of the trail to complete your route. Like the park, the trail is named after the original ranching family that settled this area in 1829.

From the north end, expect some roots and rock and a generally rough road until you reach the junction with the Spengler Trail. After passing through a gate, head to the right and climb gradually toward Briones Peak and the junction with Briones Crest Trail. At the ridge, be sure to look back for a view of the Sacramento River Delta.

After passing through another gate, you'll start on a long, winding descent into the Bear Creek Valley. The road flattens at the junction with the Valley Trail near some corrals. From here, the rest of the trail is relatively flat with a gate or two until you reach the Bear Creek Staging Area.