As wet weather and winter sets in the question arises, where to hike with limited mud? One of the best options is to head up Mitchell Canyon Road to Deer Flat (and beyond). This hike is a 7.3 mile out-and-back with 1550 feet of climbing and features a fabulous surprise along the way.

Starting at Mitchell Canyon, head up the canyon for a couple of miles. It is so lovely this time of year to have the constant melody of Mitchell Creek running alongside you. Watch for pops of color from Snowberry and Toyon, or even a myriad of fungi. But the true surprise awaits you 2 miles in as you will start to notice the bare twigs and trunks have taken on a unique coating...ladybugs! In their winter 'hybernation' are millions of convergent lady beetles in huge masses of color. Enjoy them here, and perhaps have a stop at the picnic tables, before you begin your ascent up the many switchbacks.

Just before you start climbing you will see a volunteer trail off to your left heading to the creek. Take this lovely spur and have a quiet moment next to the old springbox dam just 50 yards up. This is a great place for a video with full sound of the rushing waters to share later.

Now comes the climb! You will start up the crookedest road on Mount Diablo as you navigate 15 or so switchbacks. No matter how many times I hike this trail I'm always convinced that the next corner is the last corner...it never is. Take breaks along the way to gaze over at Eagle Peak looming above. In the latter part of December you should start seeing the urn-like blooms of Big Berry Manzanita.

As you continue to climb you will be rewarded by either the views of the valley behind you, or the quiet solitude of a fog bank enveloping you. Once you finally do navigate that last corner, you will be greeted by a rest stop at Deer Flat with several tables to enjoy, and lovely views of Eagle Peak, Black Point and Mitchell Canyon. Take a moment.

Your route back from here is simple, retrace your steps back the way you came and take notice of all the things you missed with a different perspective than on the way up. Of course if you want to extend your journey there are a multitude of ways back which incorporate a loop. Buyer beware, those other routes can be a bit tricky in the winter (Eagle Peak, Back Creek, Meridian Ridge).