Mount Diablo State Park Hike: Madrone Canyon

Category

Think summer isn’t a good time to hike? Think again and check out Madrone Canyon!

Distance: Two miles

Elevation change: 385 feet

Difficulty: Easy

Hiking time: One hour

Trail surface: Dirt fire road

Best seasons: Winter, spring, summer, and fall

Managing agency: California State Parks

Hours: 8 AM to sunset

Parking fee: $10

Trailhead location: Lower Rock City parking lot

Description:

At the peak of Mount Diablo’s sweltering summer weather, it can be difficult for many to go outdoors and enjoy the trails.

Madrone Canyon is the perfect location for those who want to beat the heat at Mount Diablo. The trail is well shaded and requires low exertion, suitable for those of all ages and athletic levels.

Save Mount Diablo’s Four Days Diablo adventure goes through Madrone Canyon. Photo by Scott Hein

Note: The trail does have poison oak along sections of it. Long pants are recommended.

It especially loved by kids and a great way to spend quality time outdoors with them! Kids also love to climb on and explore the wind caves at Rock City, which is right next to Madrone Canyon.

Mount Diablo Globe Lily. Photo by Scott Hein

Surrounded by oak trees and rare flowers, such as the Mount Diablo globe lily, Madrone Canyon takes hikers on a short journey through the heart of Mount Diablo.

Madrone Canyon starts at Rock City. From there proceed rightward down the mountain; the trail is about a mile long and will end at a fork in the road. Hikers can choose to extend the hike or head the same way back to Rock City.