Rocky Ridge Trail: Eastern Segment

Dogs Leashed

Features River/Creek · Views · Wildlife

This trail can be divided into three parts; a moderate ascent over an initial ridge along a singletrack trail, a gentle uphill stroll along a pleasant valley floor, and a steep merciless climb up the final third.

The first singletrack part passes through a mixture of pastures, woodlands, and gullies abundant with cows, lizards, plus a few deer and snakes. Once on the other side you are met with a valley seeming forgotten by the rest of the busy Bay Area.

The hike up the valley floor is shaded, gentle and provides a good opportunity to restore your strength before the final push. From here the trail gets steep fast, however this is also where the views get good. The ever increasing expansive views provide ample motivation to continue on.

Towards the top you can see over adjacent ridgelines all the way to the South Bay and as far north as San Pablo Bay. Once at the top you are met with a lonely radio tower and a wonderful view of Mt. Diablo to the east.