Morgan Territory is many peoples favorite East Bay park, linking Mount Diablo State Park and Los Vaqueros Reservoir. It’s the blue oak-wooded, headwaters of Marsh Creek—most of the park is above 2,000 feet, and Highland Ridge is taller than Mount Tamalpais in Marin County. The park is named for the family of settler Jeremiah Morgan, who called the territory “the morning side of the mountain” for its sunrise views. This loop hike provides some of the most expansive views from Morgan Territory Preserve, including glimpses of Mount Diablo, a portion of the Sacramento River drainage, and Los Vaqueros Reservoir.

Be sure to bring plenty of water and a snack, and dress in layers. Sturdy shoes or hiking boots are recommended. Heavy rain cancels.

Restrooms are available at the parking lot.

This hike is limited to 20 participants.

Land: East Bay Regional Park District

Rating: Moderate

Distance: 5.1 miles

Elevation change: 974’

Leader: Jean Vieth, Save Mount Diablo Volunteer Hike Leader

Meet: Morgan Territory Staging Area

GPS Coordinates: 37.818732043227264, -121.79584231564314

Directions: From I-580 in Livermore, exit onto N. Livermore Ave., and turn north. Shortly after N. Livermore curves left and becomes Manning Rd (west), turn right onto Morgan Territory Rd and follow it for about 5.5 miles to the staging area, which will be on the right-hand side of the road. From Walnut Creek/Concord, take Clayton Rd to Marsh Creek Rd, then turn right onto Morgan Territory Rd. The staging area is 9.4 miles from March Creek Rd on the left-hand side.

Prior to Registration: Please read the Events Waiver.

(Photo by Roxana Lucero)

FAQs

When does registration open for this event?

Each Discover Diablo event opens up for registration exactly 2 months before the day of the event at 10AM. All events are first come, first serve.

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.