There’s no better way to get some exercise and enjoy the great outdoors than hitting the local hiking trails. Luckily, our location will make it easy to not only experience mother nature but to take advantage of all the health benefits being outside can provide. We’ll discuss some of the advantages exploring the outdoors can provide as well as share some of the area’s best hiking trails for seniors.
Best Hiking Trails Near Walnut Creek Including Accessible Hiking Trails
Briones Regional Park: This 6,117-acre park in Contra Costa County features rolling, grassy hills and secluded, shady canyons. There’s one 4.5-mile hike through the meadows and rolling hills that end at the beautiful vista where you can see from the Oakland Hills to Lafayette Reservoir. You can also take a tour to the top of Briones Peak where you can see Richmond, Mount Tamalpais, Mount Diablo, Walnut Creek and Concord.
Sugarloaf Open Space Loop: This almost 2-mile loop is relatively easy and takes under one hour to hike. It’s dog-friendly and good for hiking, running and walking.
Mount Diablo State Park: At over 20,000 acres with 160 miles of trails, there are a variety of easy-to-moderate options. The most popular destination is the Visitor Center atop Mount Diablo’s highest peak. Famous for its view, when conditions are best, you can see almost 200 miles.
Contra Costa Regional Trail: One of the most popular trails in the Park District system, this multi-use, whole-access trail offers a paved pathway for bikers, runners and equestrians. This trail provides an off-road corridor connecting Martinez, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek and Concord. Following along the Contra Costa Canal, the trail intercepts several local parks in Pleasant Hill (Las Juntas Park), Walnut Creek (Larkey Park, Heather Farm Park) and Concord (Lime Ridge). It also connects to regional trails that can take you all over the east bay, including the California State Riding and Hiking Trail, Briones-to-Mt. Diablo Trail and the Iron Horse Trail.
The Gardens at Heather Farm: With dozens of paved and gravel pathways, The Gardens at Heather Farm offer a rose-covered gazebo, waterfall area, conservation garden, children’s garden and a variety of seasonal displays. There are also a paved path around the lake and gardens that’s popular with cyclists, families and mobility equipment users.
Ruth Bancroft Garden and Nursery: This world-renowned 3.5-acre botanical garden houses a collection of climate-resilient plants from around the world. There’s also meandering paths for exploring the thousands of different plant species as well as a variety of classes, workshops and events.
Get to Know The Glen at Heather Farm
If you’re looking for a community offering breathtaking views of Mount Diablo State Park in a walkable neighborhood you should get to know The Glen at Heather Farm. To learn more about our new retirement community opening soon, contact us here.