Top 10 Hikes in the East Bay

The East Bay is one of California’s best-kept secrets for hiking: redwood groves, panoramic ridge lines, wildflower meadows, and trails that feel worlds away from city life—yet are minutes from home. Whether you’re hiking with kids, dogs, friends, or solo with a podcast and a coffee, there’s something here for everyone.

1. Tilden Regional Park – Inspiration Point to Nimitz Way

Dogs: ✅ leashed
Kids: ✅ yes (wide trail)

A classic for a reason. This gently graded fire road delivers sweeping Bay views without being punishing, making it ideal for families, strollers, and long dog walks. Sunset hikes here are especially magical.

2. Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park – Stream Trail

Dogs: ✅  leashed
Kids:  ✅ excellent

Towering redwoods, shaded paths, and tiny seasonal bridges make this feel like a storybook forest. It’s cool even on warm days and perfect for younger hikers who want a bit of adventure without a big climb.

3. Mount Diablo State Park – Summit Trail

Dogs: ❌ no
Kids: ⚠️ better for older kids

On a clear day, you can see half of California. This iconic hike offers expansive views, dramatic landscapes, and a true sense of accomplishment. It’s not stroller-friendly, but it’s unforgettable.

4. Briones Regional Park – Table Top Loop

Dogs: ✅ yes
Kids: ✅ great

Rolling hills, spring wildflowers, and wide open space make this a family favorite. It’s gorgeous year-round and particularly dreamy after winter rains when everything turns electric green.

5. Claremont Canyon Regional Preserve

Dogs: ✅ leashed
Kids: ✅ yes

Tucked above Berkeley and Oakland, this trail delivers big views quickly. It’s perfect when you want exercise without a full-day commitment—and the Golden Gate views don’t hurt.

6. Las Trampas Regional Wilderness – Bollinger Creek Loop

Dogs: ✅ leashed
Kids: ⚠️ better for athletic kids

Rolling ridges, oak woodlands, and fewer crowds give this park a quieter, more rugged feel. It’s a favorite for locals who like a little elevation gain and a lot of open sky.

7. Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserve

Dogs: ✅ leashed
Kids: ✅ yes

This enchanting loop is short, sweet, and educational—especially in spring when native plants are in bloom. It’s perfect for a relaxed weekend stroll or a nature walk with curious kids.

8. Joaquin Miller Park

Dogs: ✅ leashed
Kids: ✅ yes

A local favorite with winding paths, bridges, and redwoods galore. You can keep it short or turn it into a longer adventure—great flexibility for families and after-school hikes.

9. Point Isabel Regional Shoreline

Dogs: ✅ off-leash
Kids: ✅ yes

One of the best dog parks in the country. Flat, breezy, and full of movement, this shoreline hike offers Bay views, kite surfers, and joyful chaos—in the best possible way.

10. Sunol Regional Wilderness – Little Yosemite

Dogs: ✅ leashed
Kids: ⚠️ older kids recommended

Seasonal waterfalls, rock scrambling, and dramatic scenery make this feel like a mini national park. Best after winter rains and ideal for families ready for something a bit more adventurous.

Why the East Bay Is So Special

What sets the East Bay apart is not just the beauty—it’s accessibility. In under 20 minutes, you can move from a café-lined street to a ridgeline overlooking the Bay. These trails are part of daily life here, and they’re a big reason people fall in love with East Bay living.