In January, this lovely, winding creek drainage and its ponds may be still slumbering or may be coming to life again, depending upon winter temperatures and rainfall. Most of this loop hike is on footpath but at the mid-point, we may venture a short distance on fire road into the adjacent regional park for a glimpse of Mount Diablo. Be sure to bring plenty of water and a snack, and dress in layers. Sturdy shoes or hiking boots are recommended. Heavy rain cancels.

Street parking available. No restrooms.

This event is limited to 20 participants.

Land: Walnut Creek Open Space

Rating: Moderate

Distance: 3.5 mile miles if we continue on the Briones-Mt Diablo trail into Diablo Foothills EBRP to the point where the summit is 1st visible; otherwise a little shorter

Elevation change: 500′

Leader: Save Mount Diablo Hike Leader Jean Vieth

Meet: At the gate at the END of Rockspring Place in Walnut Creek, Shell Ridge (not the gate at mid-point). There is ample street parking along Rockspring Place, but there are no restrooms.

GPS: 37.887578, -122.014324

Directions: Traveling north on I-680, take exit 44 for Rudgear Road; turn right onto Rudgear Road. Turn left onto San Miguel Drive, right onto Mountain View Blvd., right onto Walnut Blvd., and left onto Rockspring Place. The distance from exit 44 to the gate at the end of Rockspring Place is less than 3 miles.

Traveling south on I-680, take exit 45A for South Main Street; turn right onto South Main Street. Turn left onto Rudgear Road, left onto San Miguel Drive, right onto Mountain View Blvd, right onto Walnut Blvd., and left onto Rockspring Place. The distance from exit 45A to the gate at the end of Rockspring Place is a little more than 3 miles.

(Photo by Cooper Ogden)