Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve is full of early California history.
Although its main entrance features some great hikes, there are some gorgeous, lesser-known areas accessed from its eastern edge. Star Mine is one of those spots.
The hike to Star Mine from Frederickson Lane has the option of taking the single-track trail westward from its southern edge back to the Stewartville Trail (see dashed lines) but cyclists will have to turn back the way they came.
Distance: 5.65 miles
Elevation change: 410 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Hiking time: Two to four hours
Trail surface: Unpaved fire roads and single-track trails
Best season: Late spring, early summer
Hours: 8 AM to sunset
Managing agency: East Bay Regional Park District
Trailhead location: Frederickson Lane parking lot, Contra Loma Regional Park
This featured hike runs round trip from the Frederickson Lane parking lot mostly along the gentle parts of the Stewartville Trail. It climbs up into more rugged outcrops as you embark on the Star Mine Trail.
View from the Stewartsville Trail. Photo by Floyd McCluhan
Hikers can find a little relief from the summer sun in the small canyon trail before hiking up to some striking views of the surrounding oak savanna and chaparral of Deer Valley and Mount Diablo.
Most of the route shown above is accessible to both hikers and cyclists. However, cyclists will have to turn back around at the southernmost point of the route and enjoy a nice downhill section from the 660-foot high point.
Those traveling on foot can loop around on the steeper single-track back to the Stewartville Trail and take it north all the way back to the parking lot.
View of Sand Creek in Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve. Photo by Scott Hein
As with any summer hike, there are things to be aware of. Stay hydrated and keep your eyes open so you can avoid potentially dangerous wildlife.
It’s not uncommon to come across rattlesnakes, scorpions, or even wild boar in this area.
In the springtime, this route offers many beautiful wildflowers. And the views are amazing year-round!
We hope you enjoy this hike; please check out our new sixth edition of our regional trail map to find more great places to hike close to home.
Owl’s clover at Black Diamond Mines. Photo by Scott Hein
Blue dicks at Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve. Photo by Laura Kindsvater
