7 Popular Hikes 10 Short, Pleasant Walks 3 cups Blueberries Mount Diablo State Park Ten Short Walks Frank Valle-Riestra Here are some easy but very rewarding walks that you may wish to take while visiting Mt. Diablo State Park. They have been selected for those of you who want to spend an hour or so — certainly no more than two hours — on a trail amidst the mountain's natural treasures, but who do not wish to, or cannot, take advantage of some of the more challenging hikes. All of the walks are relatively level with some minor to moderate climbing. The footing is firm, and the trails can be negotiated in comfortable walking shoes. And you do not need to go all the way in order to enjoy the beautiful environment. If you are limited in time, go as far as you wish and turn back. The Trail Map of Mount Diablo State Park and the new Hikers Guide to Mount Diablo State Park are now available here at the MDIA Online Store as well as other interesting publications and items related to Mount Diablo. The trail map is also available at either the North Gate or South Gate Entrance Stations, the Summit Visitor Center and the Mitchell Canyon Visitor Centers. Also, be sure you know how to read trail signs on Mount Diablo . Title Scenic Views Wildflowers Riparian Flora Birds History Fauna Butterflies Geology Interest Mary Bowerman X X X X Fossil Ridge X X X X Mitchell Canyon X X X X X Pine Pond X X X X Juniper X X X Deer Flat Road X X Castle Rock X X X X Donner Canyon X X X Mountain House X Sentinel Rock X X Hike Features Mary Bowerman Trail 1 TRAILHEAD: On north side of road by picnic table, just at end of one-way road on its descent from summit, above "lower" summit parking lot. TRAIL STATISTICS: Loop of 0.7 miles, level (follows contour; gentle climb at end). Completely encircles summit of mountain. Easy walk, one half hour without stops. Drinking water and toilets at lower summit parking lot. DESCRIPTION: A must for both the casual visitor and the nature student, this nature trail is best negotiated with the help of the Mary Bowerman Interpretive Brochure available in the Summit Visitor Center or pamphlet box at trailhead. The incomparable views of the California landscape far below are enhanced by the framing foreground of the unusual trailside vegetation, with fine flower displays in spring and early summer. Of primary interest are the various stages of vegetative recovery following the great fire of 1977. Spectacular rock outcrops of ancient Franciscan Complex rocks abound. The trail was built by the California Conservation Corps; the first one third is paved and is wheelchair accessible up to the Ransome Point overlook, a good place to spot distant landmarks from comfortable benches. Mary Bowerman Trail Fossil Ridge Trail 2 TRAILHEAD: Uplands Picnic Area, adjacent to South Gate Road, at junction with small side road to Live Oak Campground. Trail starts as small road, badly paved, climbing hill steeply; there is a simple gate and sign barring public vehicles. TRAIL STATISTICS: 1.2-mile round trip. Short steep climb at beginning. Easy walk. DESCRIPTION: The initial climb opens up imposing vistas of the massive main peak of the mountain, as well as of San Ramon Valley in the opposite direction. The road parallels the crest of Fossil Ridge -- the adventurous may wish to scramble up to the rocky ridge, a sharp hogback (tilted sandstone layer with adjacent layers eroded away) with interesting exposed fossils, and a rock-garden-like appearance. Dramatic view of Black Hawk Ridge strata across Sycamore Canyon from a small path beyond the end of the road. Good bird watching. Fossil Ridge Trail Mitchell Canyon 3 TRAILHEAD: End of Mitchell Canyon Road, north entrance to the park, near the town of Clayton. Park in the staging area (water and toilets) -- parking $6. TRAIL STATISTICS: Level except for slight rise and descent near trailhead. One mile to junction with Red Road, another mile to limit of level part. A well graded fire road. DESCRIPTION: Even a short jaunt into beautiful Mitchell Canyon is rewarding. The banks along the road display a large variety of wildflowers, almost like a museum display, from midwinter to the end of spring. Dramatic outcrops of red rock loom high overhead, and your step will liven up to the gentle watery tune of Mitchell Creek at trailside, well into late spring. The level part of the road is a nature trail, and your enjoyment of the natural features will be enhanced with the Mitchell Canyon I nterpretive Brochure that is also available in the Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center and in a pamphlet box at the trailhead. On sunny days, this is prime butterfly country. Mitchell Canyon Pine Pond 4 TRAILHEAD: Not long after your car starts its climb on North Gate Road, you will note a distant ridge that comes in from the right to meet the winding road. After a particularly sharp curve, the highway rises steeply toward the ridge. Burma Road crossing provides access , just after the 3.0-mile point and just before a brown 1,000-foot elevation sign. Limited parking is available in front of the lower (western) gate, which is the actual trailhead, or at the elevation sign beyond. No facilities. TRAIL STATISTICS: The round trip to the pond is only 1.6 miles, with a 400-ft. drop just before Pine Pond (and, of course, a 400-ft. climb on the way back). Trails up and down Pine Canyon from Pine Pond can be explored as far as one desires. Spend an hour, or spend the day. DESCRIPTION: The graded road crosses an oak savannah, with fine views of the gentle foothills of Mount Diablo -- a good place just to lie in the grass to contemplate the sky. A sharp left at the next junction drops you down to the banks of the little lake, a habitat for a myriad of flying, swimming, crawling, and jumping creatures that constitute an incomparable living museum. Pine Pond is seasonal and may not fill, even in the rainy season. Pine Pond Juniper Trail 5 TRAILHEAD: At Laurel Nook Group Picnic Area, in Juniper Campground, just where the campground loop road returns to meet the Summit Road. Drinking water and toilets. TRAIL STATISTICS: 2.4 miles to lower summit parking lot and back, 720-ft. elevation gain. DESCRIPTION: A nicely graded, intimate trail built by the Youth Conservation Corps just before the 1977 fire. Switchbacks (avoid slippery shortcuts) facilitate the climb through the dark oak-laurel forest, a survivor of many a fire, including the 2013 Morgan Fire, to Moses Rock Ridge. Bear right through vigorous chaparral to reach interesting rock outcrops supporting a variety of stunted, tundra-like plants. Fine views through the silvery branches of fire-scarred chaparral. The trail crosses the main road and winds up at the parking lot. The return trip is all downhill. Wonderful for photography. Allow two hours. Juniper Trail Deer Flat Road (Juniper Camp) 6 TRAILHEAD: There is a large parking area at the Diablo Overlook on Summit Road just at the entrance to Juniper Campground. Walk to the end of the campground loop and find the trail across from the restrooms. Facilities in the campground. TRAIL STATISTICS: Deer Flat Road runs an essentially level course for 0.4 miles to its junction with Burma Road. This part is an easy walk. DESCRIPTION: The pleasant walk highlights fine views into San Ramon Valley across grassy slopes, emerald green in the springtim e, some of the most spectacular California poppy displays on the mountain. The thick grasses thriv e in the deep soil of the steep slumps below you, erosion products of the summit rocks. Each season brings new color surprises - the golden grasses against the deep blue sky in summer, and the same grasses, now a silvery gray, bathed in the mists of winter. Deer Flat Road Juniper Camp Castle Rock 7 TRAILHEAD: Begin from Castle Rock Regional Park in Walnut Creek located at the end of Castle Rock Road. Facilities in Castle Rock Park. TRAIL STATISTICS: A level walk of 1.5 miles (one way) takes you to the best overview of Castle Rock, a spectacularly eroded pinnacle looming high above. Head through the park to a gate that meets the old stagecoach road to Mount Diablo. Follow Stage Road along Pine Creek; it runs along the boundary of Diablo Foothills Regional Park up to the State Park gate and to the Castle Rock overlook just beyond. DESCRIPTION: Not far beyond the trailhead the road enters a cool, mature oak forest, a refuge in the hot days of summer. Pine Creek meanders through the forested meadows, and the road crosses the stream several times, requiring some careful balancing on stones in the stream. Butterflies abound in sunlit clearings. Raptor nests can sometimes be spotted with binoculars in the sandstone cavities of Castle Rock high above. Castle Rock Donner Canyon 8 TRAILHEAD: End of Mitchell Canyon Road, north entrance to the Park, near the town of Clayton. Park in the staging area (water and toilets). Parking $6. TRAIL STATISTICS: From the trailhead, walk a short distance to Oak Road, turn left to stay on Oak Road, then turn right on Murchio Road, and then right on Donner Canyon Road. 1.8 miles, one way, on a level road. An easy walk, but the road is muddy in winter and early spring. DESCRIPTION: A popular trail with local residents -- families with strollers, joggers, kids on bikes. The attractive environment is dominated by the view of the principal peaks of the park, rising sharply from the meadows at the base. In spring in particular, the sight of the rushing waters of Donner Creek meandering through flower-strewn emerald green grasslands is unforgettable. The road eventually enters an oak savannah. Donner Canyon Site of Mountain House 9 TRAILHEAD: At upper end of loop road, Junction Picnic Area, opposite ranger station at junction of North Gate and South Gate Roads. TRAIL STATISTICS: Junction Trail joins Summit Trail after 0.2 miles; the site is about 200 yards beyond on Summit Trail. A steady climb of 200 feet. Facilities at Sunset Picnic Area and the Junction Ranger Station. DESCRIPTION: You are on the old stage coach road that went up to Mountain House, a resort and weekend goal for Bay Area residents some 100 years ago. As you climb toward the site, the distant views of the coastal ranges slowly vanish, and you enter an imposing bowl-like enclosure in the heart of the mountain, encircled by grassy cliffs and the wilderness forest. Today the wide, level site shows no trace of the old hotel. You will have to let your imagination picture the excitement that the arrival of the stage coach must have engendered a century ago. Site of Mountain House 10 Sentinel Rock TRAILHEAD: From South Gate Road, park in Rock City. Find the Trail Through Time at the end of the Grotto Picnic area. TRAIL STATISTICS: The distance to the top of Sentinel Rock is only a few hundred yards, but the walk is a bit of a scramble and a stiff climb of about 200 feet, most of it up the carved steps of Sentinel Rock. DESCRIPTION: Sentinel Rock is one of the most popular destinations in the park; yet, for such a prominent feature it is extraordinarily difficult to spot. The steep (and a bit frightening) climb, aided by steel cables, is well worth the effort, for the little fenced platform at the top offers fine views of the weird Rock City wilderness in all directions. Take the Trail Through Time trail winding up through wind caves and chaparral until you reach the Civilian Conservation Corps trail. The next 0.12 mile is over eroded sandstone with carved steps and steep crevices. Kids (of all ages) will have a ball, but be sure everyone stays behind the cable barrier! Well-gripping shoes or boots are essential. Sentinel Rock

Red-tailed Hawk Buteo jamaicensis Vital Stats Phylum: Class: Order: Family: Genus: Species: Chordata Aves Falconiform Accipitridae Buteo jamaicensis Weight: Length: Wing Span: Sexual Maturity: Mating Season: Incubation: No. of Eggs: Birth Interval: Lifespan: Typical Diet: 2-4 lbs. 22" 56" 3 yrs. spring 28-32 days 1-3 year 10-21-years small rodents, snakes Red-Tailed Hawk | Joe Oliver Geography - Range The Red-tailed Hawk ranges throughout North America to central Alaska and northern Canada, and south as far as the mountains of Panama. Although not truly migratory, they do adjust seasonally to areas with the most abundant prey. In winter many of the northern birds move south. Related Species Hawks are carnivores (meat eaters) who belong to the category of birds known as raptors -- birds of prey. They have strong, hooked beaks; their feet have three toes pointed forward and one turned back; and their claws, or talons, are long, curved, and very sharp. Prey is killed with the long talons and, if it is too large to swallow whole, it is torn to bite-sized pieces with the hawk's beak. Since the beginning of recorded history, birds of prey have been both despised and revered. The sport of falconry -- using raptors as hunting aids -- has been practiced in Asia and Egypt since 3000 BC. Yet, until recent years, birds of prey have also been ruthlessly destroyed because of real or imagined competition with humans for game and domesticated animals. The Red-tailed Hawk is a grouping of 14 subspecies, each of which is more or less specific to a geographical area, and differs from the others in size, markings, etc. Comparisons Based on general body shape and flight habits, hawks are classified into three different groups (genera): the Accipiters, the Falcons, and the Buteos. The Sharp-shinned Hawk, the Cooper's Hawk, and the Goshawk are Accipiters. They have long tails and short, rounded wings that enable them to dart through and around trees in pursuit of other birds, their principal prey. Typically, they fly low with a series of rapid wing beats followed by a brief period of sailing, then another series of wing beats. Accipiters are associated with brush and timbered areas. The falcons prefer open country. They include the Prairie Falcon, the Peregrine Falcon (Duck Hawk), the Merlin (Pigeon Hawk), and the dainty little American Kestrel, also called the Sparrow Hawk. Falcons have streamlined bodies, long, pointed wings, and long tails. A series of strong, rapid wing beats gives them extremely fast flight in open country, and their swiftness allows them to overtake and capture other birds on the wing. The American Kestrel is the smallest of our hawks and feeds mainly on mice and insects. It is the only one of the falcons that hover over its intended prey. Because of its habitat and range, it is also the only Falcon or Accipiter that most people are likely to see. The Buteos are the largest of the hawks. They are the broad-winged, broad-tailed soaring hawks that are more readily seen because of their habit of circling high in the air or perching in dead trees or on telephone poles along the road. They include the Red-tailed, the Red-shouldered, the Swainson's, the Rough-legged, and the Ferruginous hawks. Description The Red-tail is the largest hawk, usually weighing between 2 and 4 pounds. As with most raptors, the female is nearly 1/3 larger than the male and may have a wing span of 56 inches. This species shows a great deal of individual variation in plumage. The adult has a rufous-colored tail that may or may not have a black terminal bar. Adults are dark brown on the back and the top of their wings. The underside of the bird is usually light with a dark belly band, and a cinnamon wash on the neck and chest. Immatures resemble the adults except their tail is brown with dark bars; the red- tail molts during its second year. The adult Red-tailed Hawk is easily identified, for when it leaves its perch on slow, measured wing beats, or turns while soaring overhead, the broad, rounded tail shows a rich, russet red, hence the name. Within its range, its frequent soaring and loud voice are good pointers. Curious Facts Hawks are carnivores (meat eaters) who belong to the category of birds known as raptors. The Red-tailed Hawk is the most common member of the buzzard hawk family. The eyesight of a hawk is 8 times as powerful as a human's. Like all hawks, the Red-tailed Hawk's talons are its main weapons. The Red-tailed Hawk has a hoarse and rasping 2- to 3-second scream that is most commonly heard while soaring. 85 to 90 % of the Red-tailed Hawk's diet is composed of small rodents. Vocalization: The Red-tailed Hawk has a hoarse and rasping 2- to 3-second scream that is most commonly heard while soaring. They are loudest when defending theirs. When parents leave the nest, the young utter a loud wailing "klee-uk," repeated several times - this is a food cry. Tail : The Red-tailed Hawk has a broad, rounded tail that shows a rich, russet red. Eyes: The eyesight of a hawk is eight times as powerful as a human's. Behavior: The Red-tailed Hawk is the most widespread and familiar member of the American Buteos (large soaring hawks). They nest in the month of March in tall trees. Like all other Buteos, it does not fly fast but soars at high altitudes using its keen eyesight to spot the slightest movement in the grass below. It is an aggressive bird and vigorously defends its territory, especially during the winter months when hunting is difficult. Habitat: The Red-tailed Hawk is usually found in grasslands or marsh-shrub habitats, but is a very adaptable bird, being equally at home in deserts and forests, and at varying heights above sea level. Food & Hunting: The Red-tailed Hawk is a most opportunistic hunter. Its diet is varied, but there is conclusive evidence now that 85 to 90 % is composed of small rodents, with rabbits, snakes, and lizards included. Where there are large numbers of pheasant, these become the food of choice in spring and summer. Like all hawks, its talons are its main weapons. Breeding, Mating, and nest building begin in early spring, usually in March, and continue through May. This is accompanied by spectacular aerial displays by both males and females. Circling and soaring to great heights, they fold their wings and plummet to treetop level, repeating this display as much as five or six times. Nests are located from 35 to 75 feet high in the forks of large trees. The nest is large, flat, shallow, and made of sticks and twigs about 1/2 inch in diameter. Both males and females assist in nest construction. Nest sites may be used from year to year since there is strong evidence that hawks mate for life. If the old nest is wind-damaged, layers of new nesting material are added each year. The female usually lays 2 dull-white to bluish-white eggs that are marked with a variety of irregular reddish spots and splotches. Incubation takes 28-32 days and is maintained almost entirely by the female. During this period the male hunts for both of them, bringing her food to the nest. When hatched , the young are covered with white down. They grow slowly and require a lot of food, which keeps both parents busy. They remain in the nest for up to 48 days. During the last 10 days or so the young, which now appear as large as the parent birds, practice flapping their wings and balancing in the wind on the edge of the nest, preparing for the days when they will launch themselves into the air. The young fledge at about 45 days. Red-tails typically do not begin breeding until their third year. Conservation In California, state and federal laws protect all raptors. Because of their inexperience hunting, juvenile birds may be seen eating road-killed animals. They may even kill chickens, and despite this rare occurrence, the Red-tail is known throughout the country as a "chicken hawk." As a conse quence, dead hawks hanging from fences and lying under trees and power poles are mute evidence that shooters, not understanding the econom ic or esthetic importance of raptors, or perhaps unaware of protective laws, still kill them indiscriminately. In the rare case of an individual raptor or hawk that engages in active predation on domestic birds or animals, such a bird may be judiciously removed in accordance with current regulations.

Bee Identification Guide Miner and Fairy Bees Andrenidae Family Diggers, Bumbles, Longhorn, and Nomad Bees Apidae Family Cellophane and Masked Bees Colletidae Family Sweat Bees Halictidae Family Leafcutter, Mason and Resin Bees Megachilidae Family All Bees A-Z Photos in this Guide are courtesy of Dan Sandri and Dan Fitzgerald. Bee Basics Bee Anatomy Bees are insects, and therefore have segmented bodies, jointed legs, and external skeletons (i.e. an exoskeleton). A bee body consists of three sections: head, thorax and abdomen. Bees have two pairs of wings and long, segmented antennae - both characteristics help distinguish them from flies that often mimic them. Bee Scopae Female bees usually use scopae to transport pollen and nectar to their nests. Scopae are composed of specialized hairs and, in most bees, are located on the hind legs of the bee. However, bees in Family Megachilidae (see lower photo), have scopae on the underside of their abdomen. Bee Wings As an example, this is the forewing of an Anthophora bee, showing a small stigma, and the 3rd submarginal cell (the submarginal cell furthest outside) is relatively parallel-sided. Bee Sizes Large Bee: > 15 mm Medium Bee: 8-15 mm Small Bee: 3-7 mm What's Buzzing on Mount Diablo Native bees of Mount Diablo do not include the European Honey Bee (Apis mellifera), an import to North America (but not directly to California) from Europe in 1622. The European Honey Bee is actually a complex of hybrids involving various subspecies. Unlike Apis mellifera, native bees do not make honey. Because they are mostly short-lived and generally not highly social, native bees do not need to produce honey to sustain an ongoing hive through the winter and beyond. Bees are said to have a complete, or holometabolous, life cycle that includes four stages: egg, larva, pupa and adult. The larval stage is grub-like, differing greatly from the adult bee. The pupal stage is a non-feeding stage through which the larva transitions to an adult bee. Bees can select sexes of their young: Males develop from unfertilized eggs. Bees typically lay female eggs first (in lower cells in a burrow) and necessarily provide more ample food supplies for daughters than for sons. The great majority of native bees are solitary bees: non-social female bees that build and maintain their own nests, and are capable of laying their own eggs. Some do build communal nests, where female bees share a nest entrance, but where each female behaves as a solitary bee. Less than 10% of bees worldwide are social bees: possessing reproductive division of labor, cooperative care of young and overlap of generations. Food provisioning for young usually consists of a combined nectar/pollen mass, sometimes liquid, that partially fills the nest cell. An egg is laid in the cell with the food contents (sometimes on the cell walls and sometimes on the food provisions). After the larva finishes feeding on provisioned food, it goes through the pupation process, and later emerges as an adult. Clues to the identity of the bee you are observing can sometimes be discerned in what the bee is doing. For example, if you see a bee that appears to be nesting in wood, you can narrow likely identification possibilities to carpenter bee (genus Xylocopa), small carpenter bee (genus Ceratina), one of the bees in genus Megachile in Family Megachilidae (a leafcutter bee) or mason bee that could be in genus Osmia, Hoplitis, or Ashmeadiella. Furthermore, size and color of the bee can help greatly in bee identification, as can head and body shape. The Descriptions in this guide should help you. Nectar serves primarily as a source of energy for flight and other activities, while pollen serves as nutrients for reproduction (ovarian and brood development). Bee species often appear in timing with their favored flowering plants. Native bees serve as keystone species, as they are, in part, responsible for shaping the rise of flowering plants in world ecosystems through pollination. This is important when we consider their importance to agricultural crops. Native bees also serve as an important food source for animals up the food chain. "Bee" an expert and buzz over to our online store to order a copy of Native Bees of Mount Diablo by Daniel Sandri. Visit the MDIA Store

Peregrine Nesting Timeline The never-ending parenting checklist for a peregrine may surprise you. Check out what typically happens during the nesting season, and appreciate why it is important to protect these amazing creatures. March/April May May/June June/July Courtship and Mating Peregrine parents court, select a nest site, and mate Nesting The female lays the eggs, and both parents incubate the eggs for 4 to 4 ½ weeks. Chicks are hatched! The hatched chicks remain in the nest for 5 to 6 weeks, as they grow and strengthen their muscles in preparation for flight. During this time, both parents hunt and bring food to the nests for the chicks. Flight Training The adult-size youngsters leave the nest but remain in the area with their parents for approximately 6 weeks. They must learn and perfect flight and hunting skills, before ultimately leaving for new territory. Back to Peregrine Team Page

list of hikes in Mount Diablo State Park with distance, trailhead and rating Find your Hike If you'd like more information about hiking on Mount Diablo, the Trail Map of Mount Diablo State Park and the Hiker's Guide to Mount Diablo State Park are available at the MDIA Online Store. The trail map is also available at the North Gate and South Gate Entrance Stations, the Summit Visitor Center, and the Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center. Be sure you know how to read trail signs on Mount Diablo . Type of Hike Demanding 4 miles Burma Road Loop Trailhead: Northgate Road, Walnut Creek, pull-out at 3-mile marker Read More Demanding 8 miles Eagle Peak from Mitchell Canyon Trailhead: Mitchell Canyon Read More Demanding 6 miles Grand Loop Trailhead: Lower Summit Parking Lot Read More Demanding 7 miles Mitchell Canyon - Back Creek Loop Trailhead: Mitchell Canyon Read More Demanding 13 miles Mitchell Canyon to Summit (Loop) Trailhead: Mitchell Canyon Read More Demanding 2.5 miles Mount Olympia from Three Springs Trailhead: Marsh Creek Road, Clayton Read More Demanding 8 miles Mount Olympia via Middle Trail Trailhead: Marsh Creek Road, Clayton Read More Demanding 8 miles Oyster Point from Curry Point Trailhead: Oyster Point Trail from Sycamore Canyon Read More Demanding 11 miles Oyster Point via Riggs Canyon Trailhead: Morgan Territory Road heading toward Livermore, about four and-a-half miles from Marsh Creek Road junction Read More Demanding 17 miles Pine Pond - Frog Pond Loop Trailhead: Parking pull-out at Curry Point, South Gate Road Read More Demanding Trail Highlights - Demanding Hikes Read More Demanding 9 miles Wall Point - Pine Canyon Loop (Demanding) Trailhead: Macedo Ranch Staging Area Read More Easy or Short 3 miles Castle Rock Trailhead: End of Castle Rock Road Read More Easy or Short <1 mile Deer Flat Road (at Juniper Camp) Trailhead: End of Juniper Camp loop road Read More Easy or Short 3.8 miles Donner Canyon Trailhead: Mitchell Canyon Read More Easy or Short 1.2 miles Fossil Ridge Trail Trailhead: Uplands Picnic Area, adjacent to South Gate Road Read More Easy or Short 2.4 miles Juniper Trail Trailhead: Laurel Nook Group Picnic Area, in Juniper Campground Read More Easy or Short <1 mile Mary Bowerman Trail (Popular) Trailhead: Lower Summit Parking Lot Read More Easy or Short <1 mile Mary Bowerman Trail (Short Walks) Trailhead: Lower Summit Parking Lot Read More Easy or Short 4 miles Mitchell Canyon Trailhead: Mitchell Canyon Read More Easy or Short 4 miles Mitchell Canyon Nature Trail Trailhead: Mitchell Canyon Read More Easy or Short 1.6 miles Pine Pond Trailhead: Burma Road crossing, Northgate Road Read More Easy or Short <1 mile Sentinel Rock Trailhead: Live Oak Campground (Rock City area) Read More Easy or Short <1 mile Site of Mountain House Trailhead: Junction Picnic Area Read More Easy or Short Trail Highlights - Easy-Short Walks Read More Moderate 4.5 miles Balancing Rock and Knobcone Point Trailhead: Curry Point, South Gate Road Read More Moderate 4.8 miles Black Point Loop Trailhead: Mitchell Canyon Read More Moderate 5.8 miles Chase Pond - Hidden Pond Trailhead: Curry Point, South Gate Road Read More Moderate 3.2 miles Dan Cook Canyon Trailhead: South Gate Road, just beyond the boundary gate Read More Moderate 6.3 miles Eagle Peak Trailhead: End of Juniper Campground loop road Read More Moderate 7.6 miles Falls Trail Loop (Moderate) Trailhead: Mitchell Canyon Read More Moderate 8 miles Falls Trail Loop (Popular) Trailhead: Mitchell Canyon Read More Moderate 4 miles Juniper - Pioneer - Summit Loop Trailhead: Diablo Valley Overlook at Juniper Read More Moderate 3.4 miles Madrone Canyon Loop Trailhead: Curry Point, South Gate Road Read More Moderate 4.6 miles Mount Olympia from North Peak Trailhead: Roadside parking area at Devil’s Elbow, on Summit Road Read More Moderate 5.3 miles Olofson Ridge Trailhead: Mitchell Canyon Read More Moderate 3 miles Sycamore Canyon Loop (Popular) Curry Point, South Gate Road Read More Moderate Trail Highlights - Moderate Hikes Read More Moderate 4 miles Twin Peaks - Mitchell Rock Loop Trailhead: Mitchell Canyon Read More Moderate 6 miles Wall Point - Pine Canyon Loop (Moderate) Trailhead: Macedo Ranch Staging Area Read More Varies 6 miles Trail Through Time Trailhead: South Gate Road or Summit Road Read More

Activities and handouts in natural sciences for teaching school-age youth at Mount Diablo State Park. Activities and Handouts Explore our library of activities and handouts that are available for download (PDF). You can also browse our full list of Nature Articles here . Filter by Theme Select Theme Oak Woodland Habitat - Web of Life Activity Living Things Need Each Other View or Download Spotted Towee Marvelous Animal Adaptations View or Download Trail Through Time Hike A Geological Journey View or Download Dragonfly Marvelous Animal Adaptations View or Download Hoverflies Marvelous Animal Adaptations View or Download Mountain Lions Mount Diablo State Park View or Download Nature Posters Wildlife and Plant Posters (PDF) View or Download Grasslands Plant Communities of Mount Diablo State Park View or Download Hard Chaparral Plant Communities of Mount Diablo State Park View or Download Soft Chaparral Plant Communities of Mount Diablo State Park View or Download Tarantula Time Fall is Tarantula Time on Mount Diablo View or Download Coyote and Quail Focus on Coyote and Quail Read More Acorn Woodpecker Marvelous Animal Adaptations View or Download Geologic Guide to Mount Diablo State Park A must have for all those interested in geology. View or Download Swallowtail Butterfly Marvelous Animal Adaptations View or Download Ladybug Time An attractive but not-so-innocent littlesojourner on Mount Diablo View or Download Coyote Marvelous Animal Adaptations View or Download Journaling for Young Naturalists Take a Walk in the Woods... How to Use the Park as a Resource Read More Oak Woodlands Plant Communities of Mount Diablo State Park View or Download Riparian Woodlands Plant Communities of Mount Diablo State Park View or Download What's Blooming Now on Mount Diablo See the list of blooming plants View or Download Crab Spider Marvelous Animal Adaptations View or Download Common Birds A-Z See a list of common birds in Mount Diablo State Park View List Back to Learn

Matching Gift MDIA Request a Matching Gift An easy way to double your contribution is through employee giving programs. Many corporations match employee/retiree donations (or the tax-deductible component of your membership) to our organization. Frequently Asked Questions What are employee matching gift programs? Employee matching gift programs are corporate giving programs in which the company matches donations made by employees to eligible nonprofit organizations. It's an easy way to double your contribution to us! What are volunteer grant programs? Volunteer grant programs are corporate giving programs in which companies provide monetary donations to organizations where employees volunteer regularly. If you volunteer with us, it's an easy way to provide us with additional financial support! How do I request a matc hing gift or volunteer grant? Requesting a matching gift or volunteer grant is normally a five-minute process that must be initiated by the donor/volunteer. You can do this by filling out and submitting a "match form" provided by your employer. What if I still have questions? For questions regarding your company's programs, please contact your employer's HR or community giving department. Much of the necessary information is also available on your company intranet. For questions regarding submitting a matching gift or volunteer grant request to us, please contact us at mcec4me@gmail.com.

10 Moderate Hikes Mount Diablo State Park Ten Moderate Hikes Frank Valle-Riestra You are invited to explore ten of the mountain's most attractive environments, some not all that well known, along trails that are not particularly difficult. The hikes outlined below are no more than half-day walks, from two to four hours or so long. However, you may face some stiff climbs—none of them long—and good boots are strongly recommended, for some of the trails are a bit rough. With a few exceptions, there is no potable water on these trails. You should carry drinks with you. Many of the trails are narrow and you may run across poison oak. If you think you are susceptible, it is best to protect your limbs with appropriate clothing. Such protection also comes in handy in keeping away ticks that, let's face it, are around. Keep in mind that in summer the mountain gets pretty hot in the sun, so carry some headgear. In other seasons, carry at least a light jacket to ward off chill winds that can arise suddenly. The Trail Map of Mount Diablo State Park and the Hikers Guide to Mount Diablo State Park are available at the MDIA Online Store as well as other interesting publications and items related to Mount Diablo. The trail map is also available at either the North Gate or South Gate Entrance Stations, the Summit Visitor Center, and the Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center. Also, be sure you know how to read trail signs on Mount Diablo . 3 cups Blueberries Mount Diablo State Park Ten Moderate Hikes Frank Valle-Riestra You are invited to explore ten of the mountain's most attractive environments, some not all that well known, along trails that are not particularly difficult. The hikes outlined below are no more than half-day walks, from two to four hours or so long. However, you may face some stiff climbs—none of them long—and good boots are strongly recommended, for some of the trails are a bit rough. With a few exceptions, there is no potable water on these trails. You should carry drinks with you. Many of the trails are narrow and you may run across poison oak. If you think you are susceptible, it is best to protect your limbs with appropriate clothing. Such protection also comes in handy in keeping away ticks that, let's face it, are around. Keep in mind that in summer the mountain gets pretty hot in the sun, so carry some headgear. In other seasons, carry at least a light jacket to ward off chill winds that can arise suddenly. The Trail Map of Mount Diablo State Park and the Hikers Guide to Mount Diablo State Park are available at the MDIA Online Store as well as other interesting publications and items related to Mount Diablo. The trail map is also available at either the North Gate or South Gate Entrance Stations, the Summit Visitor Center, and the Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center. Also, be sure you know how to read trail signs on Mount Diablo . Trail Name Scenic Views Wildflowers Riparian Flora Birds History Fauna Butterflies Geology Interest Fall Trails Loop X X X Mount Olympia via North Peak X X X Twin Peaks - Mitchell Rock X X X X Black Point Loop X X X Balancing Rock - Knobcone Pt X X X X Chase Pond - Hidden Pond X X X Dan Cook Canyon X X X Eagle Peak X X X X Sycamore Canyon Loop X X X Olofson Ridge X X X X Hike Features Falls Trail Loop Falls Trail Loop 1 TRAILHEAD: End of paved part of Mitchell Canyon Road, north entrance to park, near the town of Clayton. Park in staging area (water and toilets). $6 parking fee. TRAIL STATISTICS: From the trailhead, walk a short distance and turn left on Oak Road, left to stay on Oak Road, and then right on Murchio Road. Turn right on Donner Canyon Road up to Cardinet Oaks Road to the Falls Trail returning loop back via Middle Trail, briefly right on Meridian Ridge Road, then back left down Donner Canyon Road. In winter and early spring, roads at lower elevations may be muddy. DESCRIPTION: In winter (rainy season) and throughout spring, the Falls Trail offers fine views of the mountain's most spectacular attraction, several waterfalls up to 100 feet high. Spring also brings astounding displays of wildflowers, and the colorful rock formations are worth the trip at any time. Kindly refrain from scrambling down to the falls; it is dangerous and damages the landscape. Mount Olympia via North Peak 2 TRAILHEAD: At roadside parking area. Devil’s Elbow, on Summit Road, just below the summit. Facilities at summit. TRAIL STATISTICS: This is a 4.6 miles round trip on North Peak Trail and to Prospector's Gap, then continuing on North Peak Road to the top. The descent from North Peak to Mount Olympia is very steep, on slippery scree. After leaving North Peak, turn right on North Peak Trail to the Olympia Summit. Round trip involves a total climb of 1,670 feet, mostly on the way back. DESCRIPTION: This is a trip for those who enjoy an unlimited sky above and views into distant depths below. The one-track path to Prospector’s Gap is a showplace for wildflowers in the spring. Mount Olympia, itself, is like a little throne high above the encircling landscape, where you can sit and observe the puny world below you, and beyond, the great plains of the Central Valley. In wintertime, the mists rolling up from the depths of Donner Canyon put on a great show of landscape hide-and-seek. Mount Olympia via North Peak Twin Peaks - Mitchell Rock Loop 3 TRAILHEAD: End of paved part of Mitchell Canyon Road, north entrance to park, near the town of Clayton. Park in staging area (water and toilets). $6 parking fee. TRAIL STATISTICS: A 4-mile loop incorporating Coulter Pine, Eagle Peak, and Mitchell Rock Trails. Take Mitchell Canyon Road to Oak Road to Coulter Pine Trail to find the Eagle Peak Trail; its beginning may be a little faint, leading uphill opposite a downed oak tree. The trail parallels Back Creek and climbs gently up toward Twin Peaks. Climb of 1,100 feet. At the junction head back down to the right on the lovely Mitchell Rock Trail with stops at the Peaks and the Rock itself. DESCRIPTION: This is a wonderfully scenic loop at any time of year, passing through several distinct habitat zones -- meadow lands, oak savannah, chaparral, rocky summits, and a fine stand of Coulter pines. The Eagle Peak Trail climbs steadily to meet the Mitchell Rock Trail at the crest of Twin Peaks. Visitors have forged a maze of informal trails, but stick to the crest to descend, to the lower Twin Peak, and you won't have any trouble. Pause to admire the brilliantly colored rocks at the venerable Great-Berried manzanita, survivors of many fires, with exquisite blooms in January and February. Take care -- Twin Peaks have dangerous vertical drop-offs! When Mitchell Rock Trail changes into a fire road entering the bottom meadows, veer left back to the trailhead. Twin Peaks-Mitchell Rock Loop Black Point Loop Black Point Loop 4 TRAILHEAD: End of paved part of Mitchell Canyon Road, north entrance to park, near the town of Clayton. Park in staging area (water and toilets). $6 parking fee. TRAIL STATISTICS: The Black Point Trail proper starts about one-half mile along the Mitchell Canyon Road trail, on the right just beyond the creek crossing. It ends on Red Road and the loop is completed by taking Mitchell Canyon Road back to the trailhead -- or better yet by taking the small Globe Lily Trail which parallels the road. The loop is 4.8 miles long, and the climb is 1,190 feet. DESCRIPTION: An outstanding journey through a hidden, little-known corner of the park, spanning several life zones, culminating at the chaparral-covered summit of Black Point. From here a truly unique perspective of central Contra Costa is obtained. Watch for evidence of mining trailside during descent from Black Point. The return trail paralleling Mitchell Canyon Road in spring, shelters fine displays of the endemic Mount Diablo globe lily in good years. Wear light-colored protective clothing to combat ticks. Balancing Rock and Knobcone Point 5 TRAILHEAD: Paved parking pull-out at Curry Point, South Gate Road. No facilities. TRAIL STATISTICS: 4.5 miles round trip, level except for a few ups and downs. Easy walk. DESCRIPTION: Knobcone Point Road follows the crest of the tilted strata of Domengine sandstone, culminating with the teetering wall known as Balancing Rock. This feature has been faithfully reproduced on a full scale and forms the display focus at Walnut Creek's Lindsay Wildlife Experience Museum. Beyond Balancing Rock, and just before the park boundary gate, follow the spur road to the right; this takes you to a most interesting display of the beneficial effect of fire (this one in 1981) upon the regeneration of knobcone pines. A controlled burn of underbrush was done in 1995. At the end of the spur, to the right of the transmission line pylons, stop to admire the incredibly complex eroded sandstone landscape and the resident turkey vultures perched there or soaring overhead. Do not attempt to scale the dangerous cliffs, tempting as that may be -- respect the privacy of the ticks and rattlesnakes. Balancing Rock and Knobcone Point Chase Pond and Hidden Pond 6 TRAILHEAD: Paved parking pull-out at Curry Point, South Gate Road. No facilities. TRAIL STATISTICS: 5.8 miles mostly on dirt roads, but about 0.8 miles cross-country. Total climb of 1170 feet. DESCRIPTION: The trails up to the twin Chase Ponds are well-marked at intersections. The first section down Curry Canyon Road passes through a beautiful, shaded strip of riparian vegetation. A turn onto Frog Pond Road opens up rolling grasslands with some of the finest displays of massed wildflowers in the spring. Just beyond Chase Pond, the road turns uphill and becomes quite faint -- follow it until it meets Mountain Springs Creek, where an old cow-crossing facilitates the climb up the opposite bank. Now turn back and walk cross-country in the general direction of Hidden Pond. Easily spotted among the grassy knolls, Hidden Pond is one of the mountain’s beauty spots -- a peaceful, lonesome pond, the quiet waters reflecting overhanging branches, the great mountain looming up behind. A short cross-country jaunt brings you to Frog Pond Road for the trip back. Chase Pond - Hidden Pond Dan Cook Canyon 7 TRAILHEAD: From Southgate Road, park in the Rock City area. From here walk down the access road to Live Oak Campground heading straight down onto Summit Trail. There is no day parking at the campground. TRAIL STATISTICS: 3.2 miles round trip to Live Oak Campground on first part of the Summit Trail. 730-ft. climb. DESCRIPTION: A trail for tree lovers and rock lovers, and a great favorite for mountain bikers. It will he hard for you to resist exploring the maze of Rock City with its fascinating vistas of grotesquely eroded sandstone pinnacles and wind caves, but make your way down to the campground. The environment varies from a shady canyon of maples, sycamores, alders, and bay trees to a dry oak savannah. Dan Cook Canyon Eagle Peak 8 TRAILHEAD: There is a large parking area at the Diablo Overlook on Summit Road just at the entrance to Juniper Campground. Walk to the end of the campground and find the trail across from the restrooms. Facilities in the campground. TRAIL STATISTICS: 6.3 miles out and back via Deer Flat Road, Meridian Ridge Road, and Eagle Peak Trail. Total climb of 1,490 feet. DESCRIPTION: This hike, has everything, starting with the flower- strewn meadows going down to Deer Flat. Deer Flat, itself, with its symphony of bird song, is one of the mountain's memorable beauty spots. Eagle Peak Trail is an exciting hogback, often only a few feet wide, with sharp drop-offs on each side. Eagle Peak is a rocky belvedere from which to admire the expanse of Contra Costa’s "Central Valley" before you -- a good place to pause for lunch. Eagle Peak Sycamore Canyon Loop 9 TRAILHEAD: Paved parking pull-out at Curry Point, South Gate Road. No facilities. TRAIL STATISTICS: 3.4-mile loop using Knobcone Point, Black Hawk Ridge, and Sycamore Creek Roads then Devil's Slide trail back to Knobcone Point Trail. 580-ft. climb on the return loop. DESCRIPTION: A hike to savor the colors of fall or the fog-softened mysteries of winter. The passing scene is endlessly surprising and refreshing. Initially, you walk through rolling meadows with magnificent views of the Mount Diablo massif above Curry, seen through the branches of stately oaks, which, in foggy weather assume a wonderful ghost-like appearance. On clear winter days, the snowy crest of the Sierra Nevada may he admired, far beyond the great expanse of the Central Valley: The colorful leafy carpets under towering sycamore trees, deep down in Sycamore Canyon, are unforgettable. Your climb back on Devil's Slide is a lovely one along a babbling brook, let your nose guide you to a stop at the peculiar Sulfur Spring. Sycamore Canyon Loop Olofson Ridge 10 TRAILHEAD: End of paved part of Mitchell Canyon Road, north entrance to park, near the town of Clayton. Park in staging area (water and toilets). $6 parking fee. TRAIL STATISTICS: 5.3-mile round trip. 1,010-ft. climb. DESCRIPTION: After just one mile along beautiful Mitchell Canyon, turn right on Red Road which, incongruously, climbs White Canyon. In springtime, this is the site of rarer wildflower species such as the Mount Diablo Globe Lily and Wind Poppies. Take a sharp left onto Olofson Ridge Trail and climb to the boundary gate. Just before the gate follow a faint trail on the left toward the summit. Find yourself a perch on one of the cherty outcrops whitewashed by the presence of fellow raptors, and lose yourself in the world of hawks, kestrels, and turkey vultures. With the awesome chasm of Mitchell Canyon and the massive walls of Eagle Peak as a background, admire the aerial acrobatics of these magnificent fliers -- with luck, you may even spot a golden eagle. Olofson Ridge

What our Supporters are saying "I support the vision of a new educational complex with ADA-compliant facilities at Mitchell Canyon which would make it possible to accommodate school field trips by bus for the first time to the mountain. Our children would have a place to meet and experience state of art displays about the natural and cultural history of the mountain. A center would offer all students from diverse communities in Contra Costa County access to outdoor education and environmental science opportunities which are not currently available. It would give them a chance to appreciate the rich history and culture of our region." Lynn Mackey, Superintendent of Contra Costa County "I'm ecstatic for the potential opportunities this project may bring to the Clayton Community. It will be wonderful to have a place where families can come together to explore and learn the rich history of the park and then head downtown for lunch after a hike!" Terri Denslow, Clayton Resident & Former Chair of Clayton Planning Commission May 30, 2022 “For more than 20 years, I have lived in the residential area at Mitchell Canyon. During this time, I have seen the visitation steadily increase. The increase in visitation was especially noticeable during the height of the pandemic when we saw the greatest number of people using parks and open spaces. Even during that time, there were trails and places that you could visit without seeing many other people. In the winter and early spring, which is typically our busiest times of the year, our parking lots may be filled to capacity, but there is still plenty of open space and opportunities for people to spend time in the park without feeling crowded by others. I feel that we still can accommodate many more users without having a negative impact on the land or the visitors who come to the park.” Cameron Morrison, Supervising Park Ranger, Mount Diablo State Park May 30, 2022 "Mount Diablo is an island in the middle of suburbia. It is a diverse habitat of cool wooded canyons, oak forest, a grassy savannah, and a wonderment of rocky slopes, home to many rare and endemic plants, as well as several protected and threatened animals. It is a treasure of wildflowers in springtime and summer, a paradise for bird watchers, a challenge to hikers, and until recently, a mystery to geologists. Saving and protecting Mount Diablo for all the flora and fauna is of paramount importance, but educating the public, especially upcoming generations as to the significance of biodiversity, whether the smallest microbe or an apex predator like a mountain lion, is also crucial. The new Education Center at Mitchell Canyon will help us accomplish this urgent mission." Michael Marchiano, Naturalist, and MDIA volunteer May 30, 2022 " After many years being in a small, old, and undersized building I am pleased to support the efforts of the MDIA to establish a new energy-efficient, environmentally responsive, and ADA-designed building that will provide indoor and outdoor education, natural history, and environmental science opportunities to all visitors including students." Laura Hoffmeister, Mayor of the city of Concord May 22, 2023 "I believe that the vitality of our natural open spaces is essential to the health and well-being of ourselves and the world around us. The flora and fauna that exist in Mount Diablo State Park exist nowhere else on Earth, which is why it is so important for us to educate those who visit the park on all that it has to offer. The new Education Center will do just that - provide an open space, energy-efficient and environmentally responsive Pavilion that will be open 24/7, along with an Education Center that is ADA compliant. Together they will significantly increase access to the park for the community at large, our nearby Clayton community, and children and families of all ages." Kim Trupiano, Clayton Resident, and Clayton City Councilmember May 24, 2023 "The East Contra Costa Community Alliance (ECCCA) supports the vision of an educational center with accessible facilities at Mitchell Canyon that makes it possible to accommodate school field trips by bus even for children that might be residing in East Contra Costa County. The parents and children of families served by ECCCA would have a place to meet and experience state-of-the-art displays about the natural and cultural history of the mountain. The Center to be established would offer all students from diverse communities in Contra Costa County access to outdoor educational opportunities which are currently not as readily available. ECCCA families and children will certainly benefit from the educational center which is why we are solidly behind the development and implementation of the program." Solomon Belette, MBA, Managing Director www.ecccalliance.com November, 2023 For more information, email us at mcec4me@gmail.com

The Birds of Mount Diablo's Woodland By Jenn Roe The Oak woodland habitat attracts and assortment of birds where oaks (the dominant tree) and other vegetation offer a variety of food to suit a range of avian eating habits: acorns and other seeds, berries, leaves, wood, sap, roots and pollen. These plant foods attract insects and other edible creatures that add to the list of menu items. Many birds find shelter here. Some nest in tree cavities, while other species make their home in the canopy of leaves and branches, or under the protection of understory plants. Birds found in Mount Diablo's oak woodlands include year-round and seasonal residents, visitors from bordering habitats, and migratory birds seeking respite before continuing their journey. Breeding birds species in the oak woodlands include: California Quail (year round) California Scrub-Jay (year round) Northern Flicker (year round) White-breasted Nuthatch (year round) Oak Titmouse (year round) California Towhee (year round) Dark-eyed Junco (year round) Western Bluebird (year round) Orange-crowned Warbler (summer) Cedar Waxwing (winter) Black-chinned Sparrow (mostly late April to June) I Northern Flicker | Daniel Fitzgerald Western Bluebird | Daniel Fitzgerald California Quail | Dave Furseth

MDIA Newsletters eNewsletters Sign Up Now Sign up for MDIA's eNewsletter for updates about park events and opportunities to get involved. August 2025 e-newsletter (pdf) March 2025 e-newsletter (pdf) December 2024 e-newsletter (pdf) September 2024 e-newsletter (pdf) June 2024 e-newsletter (pdf) March 2024 e-newsletter (pdf) Diablo Peak | Chris Benton Mount Diablo Review The Mount Diablo Review has a NEW format and is now updated annually. The newsletter offers points of interest, a park map, camping information, and more. 2025 Annual Edition PDF 2024 Annual Edition PDF 2023 Fall-Winter PDF 2023 Spring-Summer PDF 2022 Fall-Winter PDF 2022 Spring-Summer PDF

Mount Diablo Day Flying Moths Some Day Flying Moths at Mount Diablo, California, Contra Costa County Compiled by J. A. Powell February 2015 The following list of species no doubt is incomplete because State Park policy prevented collecting of insects for many decades. The preliminary list includes some specimen records in the Essig Museum, U. California, Berkeley (EME), and others I suspect will be found when a more comprehensive survey is carried out. Most of the confirmed specimen records to date originate from Russelmann Park and Mitchell Canyon, which were operated as commercial parks in the 1950s-1960s, and from several sites listed only by elevation (1800’, 2000’ etc. presumably along the paved road), collected by C. I. Smith in the late 1940s, prior to his untimely death in 1950. Probably numerous other diurnal Mount Diablo moths have been deposited in the California Academy of Sciences (CAS) or have been observed but not collected. I have not searched Kelly’s CA Moths counties list, which may be a source for additional records on Mount Diablo.