Beautiful rolling hills, a meander through an oak woodland with wildflowers, views of Mt. Diablo, birds, and a lovely small lake near the end of the loop. Be sure to bring plenty of water, a snack, and dress in layers. Sturdy shoes or hiking boots, hiking poles and binoculars are recommended. Heavy rain cancels. No restrooms.

This hike is limited to 20 participants.

Land: Walnut Creek Open Space, Shell Ridge

Rating: Moderate

Distance: 3.5 miles (this loop hike starts on the “Briones to Mt. Diablo Regional Trail”, makes a turn onto the “Coral Springs Trail”, then onto the “Upper Buck Trail”, then heads downward on the “Deer Lake Trail” and finally follows the “Coral Spring Trail” back to the staging area)

Elevation Change: 600’

Leader: Jennifer Russell, Save Mount Diablo Hike Leader

Meet: End of Marshall Dr in Walnut Creek, near Indian Valley Elementary School

GPS Coordinates: 37.901577, -122.032075

Directions: From downtown Walnut Creek, take Ygnacio Valley Rd. to Homestead Avenue. Turn right on Homestead and then take the first left onto Marshall Dr. Continue on Marshall until it dead-ends at the Shell Ridge Open Space and park along the road.

Photo by Mary Nagle

FAQs

Are dogs allowed on Discover Diablo hikes?

No. Some Discover Diablo hikes take place on land owned by other organizations (such as Mount Diablo State Park & East Bay Regional Park lands) and many of the trails on these properties have a strict no-dog policy.

Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event?

Anyone under the age of 18 will need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?

No. On the hike day, we will have a roster with your registration information on it. Please make sure to check in with the hike leader.

Can I update my registration information?

Yes. If you would like to change anything, please reach out to discoverdiablo@savemountdiablo.org.

How can I contact the organizer with any questions?

You can contact us at discoverdiablo@savemountdiablo.org.