Las Trampas Wilderness Regional Preserve

Pretty valley, feels far despite being sandwiched between developed areas. Cool, flat creekside trail along the middle, very family-friendly, & steeper trails along both sides with rewarding views.

I've literally had this park as my extended backyard since 1972. Yet still it seems I don't spend enough time up there. This park has an old soul. Her steep west facing canyons whistle the wind 2000 feet above a 360° view of the Bay Area. Gentle, fierce, calm and wicked. Never predictable. Never disappoints.

Really nice hiking with lots of cgallenge options. Not very crowded which was nice. One downside that surprised me was being able to hear road noise for almost half the hike even though you felt like you were far removed. Trails in good condition and well marked. Will be back for more.

My favorite trails were closed on the east side of Las Trampas Regional Park due to repairs needed on the trails to make them safe. Nevertheless I found another area where I made my own trail uphill following narrow animal trails and cattle tracks. I heard and spotted a lone turkey up on the hillside and viewed a pair of Red-Tailed Hawks floating in the breeze. A variety of wildflowers were blooming including Miniature Lupine, Hairy Vetch, California Poppy (aka Golden Poppy, California Sunlight, Cup of Gold), California Buttercup, and Western Blue-Eyed Grass ( aka California Blue-Eyed Grass). Several old Valley Oaks doted the hillsides. Many standing alone in grassy meadows with wildflowers. A photo I took from the road shows the stark contrast between areas allowed to grow wild and those turned into grazing areas for cattle.

Great place for hikers. There are multiple trails from under 2 miles - 10 miles(moderate-difficult). Very windy on top of the mountains. Steep rolling mountains with beautiful views. I recommend carrying water, snacks and sunscreen.