Also visit the Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center on the north side of the mountain.

Renovated in 2010, the Visitor Center highlights the cultural and natural history of Mt. Diablo State Park.

See State Park Road Map for directions
Open Daily  10am to 4pm 
925.837.6119

Also look at the Article on the history of the Summit Building - Mt. Diablo Review by Linda Sanford

Exhibits

Impressive exhibits chronicle the history of the mountain and capture its majesty. A rock wall with instructional video examines the geological forces which created the mountain. Panels describe the native American history of the region. A diorama, complete with native sounds, offers an overview of the park's ecosystems. A model of the mountain acquaints visitors with important park locations. Splendid photographs enhance the visitor's experience.

In addition to the exhibits, the summit museum features a gift shop and audio-visual room. An elevator is available from the lower level entrance to the upper museum floor and observation roof. Check-in at lower level Welcome Desk.

Observation Deck

Telescopes are mounted on the deck to help visitors enjoy one of the finest views in the world. On the walk up the circular stairway to the observation deck, visitors are treated to a look at ancient marine fossils embedded in the sandstone walls of the summit building. In the rotunda they are reminded of Mt. Diablo's importance as a survey point. Above the rotunda is a beacon, historically important to aviators and now lighted once a year on December 7 in memory of those who lost their lives at Pearl Harbor.

Museum Hours and Fees

The museum is open daily from 10 AM to 4:00 PM   You can call the park at 925-837-2525 to confirm that both the park and museum are open and verify hours of operation. Visitor Center telephone 925-837-6119.

There is a park entry fee. Admission to the museum is free.

Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center

The Mitchell Canyon Interpretive Center is located in Mount Diablo State Park at the south end of Mitchell Canyon Road in Clayton,CA. The Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center is staffed by State Park Volunteers and is supported by the Mount Diablo Interpretive Association whose main goal is to provide visitors with information so they can better enjoy the Park and it's natural wonders. The Center is currently open on Saturdays and Sundays, and some holidays 8am to 4pm during spring and summer months and 9am to 3pm during fall and winter months.

The Center has displays about various aspects of Mt. Diablo State Park, such as geology, wildlife, trails, and plant life. Interpretive materials about the Park, such as geology, wildlife, and plants, are for sale. There are also postcards, note cards, trail maps, and water for sale. A docent is on duty when the Center is open to answer questions and to handle sales of materials. In the future the Center will also serve as a focal point in Mitchell Canyon for scheduled group hikes and lectures. We welcome all visitors to this part of the State Park to stop in and see the new Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center.

See State Park Road Map for directions.

If you would like to volunteer for this program, please contact Sue Donecker,
Visitor Center Coordinator (925) 673-3356 or email.

Also see recent article from "Mountain News" Go to article

Mitchell Canyon Habitat Restoration Project
Volunteer leaders with habitat restoration experience and understanding are needed to organize, manage and teach novices who want to learn. Main activities are weed control in the park, and native plant propagation at Mitchell Canyon nursery.  For orientation and questions contact Dave Caniglia, cani@mindspring.com.