We don’t know about you, but after overindulging through holiday meals, feeling cooped up indoors and spending too much time on social media, we’re looking for ways to reset the body and mind. It’s a new year, after all. An opportunity to start fresh, embrace healthy habits, or simply take some deep breaths and exhale.
Nature walks can do us all a lot of good. Yes, the days are short. But they’re getting longer! Are temperatures chilly? Throw on a jacket! A little rain? We need it! Fill a water bottle, turn off your phone and head outside. With 90 miles of trails spanning 29,000 acres of East Bay watershed, EBMUD’s got you covered.
Here are a few staff picks for inspiration.
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Skyline Trail, Berkeley
Beautiful ridgeline views of Mount Diablo to the east and San Francisco Bay to the west highlight this trail that features a wide assortment of native flora.
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Oursan and Bear Creek Trails, Orinda
If you’re up for longer mileage, these connected trails form a gorgeous loop around the clear waters of Briones Reservoir. You might spot a wandering coyote or California quail.
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Pinole Ridge Trail, near Pinole
Hilltop vistas and serene oak woodlands reward narrow climbs through grasslands and coyote brush. Scan the sky for raptors circling overhead. King Canyon Loop Trail, Moraga Listen to birdsong, nod to grazing horses and meander among the oaks, pines and bay laurels that skirt Upper San Leandro Reservoir.
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Rocky Ridge Loop Trail, near San Ramon
A combination of steep inclines and ridgeline rollers offer splendid views of lands beyond. Kelly green grasses that emerge in winter are joined by an eruption of golden poppies and wild lupine as the weather warms.
Learn more about EBMUD trails, download watershed maps and purchase a trail use permit at ebmud.com/eastbaytrails.
Interested in exploring areas further afield? We have trails in the Sierra foothills too. Go to ebmud.com/sierratrails.