Mission Peak Loop from Stanford Avenue Staging Area

Breathtaking views of the Bay Area are your reward for making this climb to the top of Mission Peak. It’s a 3-mile trek to the top of the peak and then back down the same way. This is a moderate hike that provides a nice workout – so be prepared. Park at the Stanford Avenue entrance gate. There is enough parking for about 20 cars, but if it’s full, there’s plenty of parking available along Sta...

Please note this is a fragile ecosystem and watershed. There is NO swimming allowed in Alameda Creek and trespassing is prohibited on Water Department lands that are not accessible to the public. You can learn more about the restrictions and the area at ebparks.org.  After entering the kiosk you’ll be able to pick up a brochure with a map at the trail head. A wooden bridge leads over Alameda C...

Lake Elizabeth is located in central Fremont.  It offers a nice break from the city streets and can be enjoyed by walkers, joggers, and bikers alike.  It is a park for all ages.   Other attractions include volleyball nets, multiple playgrounds, and aqua adventure park, geese, and peddle boats. Barbecues and picnics are also allowed.  There are occasional deer sightings, many ducks, and many g...

This tranquil 20.6 acre park is open year round from 8am to sunset. It’s the gateway to the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. It is filled with boardwalks, trails, and all kinds of wildlife. I went here with the sole intent of catching a pretty sunset after a long week.  I got to do just that and enjoyed a leisurely stroll through this park.   If you're looking for a hike,...

Pleasanton Ridge Trail is a 6.4 mile loop. The loop is shared by dog walkers, trail runners, hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders. From the ridge your viewpoints will include Mount Diablo and the San Francisco Bay.  This hike from the Foothills Staging Area is an excellent introduction to the park: long enough to get your heart rate up, but not nearly as arduous as some hikes in the n...

North Rim Trail to Eagle Rock is an out-and-back trail that takes you past scenic surroundings located near San Jose, California.