We’ll venture out into the oak grasslands along the shoreline of Los Vaqueros Reservoir to see what winter brings to the land and marvel at the unique adaptations of the varied plants and animals that live there. The mistletoe will be flush with white berries, the birds will be heading south, and the land will be anticipating the first rains of the season after seven to eight months of summer drought.

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

Due to COVID-19, we are limiting the hike to 8 participants. All participants must bring a mask and stay 6ft apart. Hand sanitizer will be available at the hike.

Participants will also be required to accept our COVID-19 Protocol (available during registration).

***There will be a $6 entrance fee ($4 for Contra Costa Water District customers with proof of residence)

Land: Contra Costa Water District

Rating: Easy/Moderate

Distance: 3 miles

Elevation change: 450’

Leaders: Steve & Carolyn Balling, Save Mount Diablo Hike Volunteers

Meet: Los Vaqueros Marina parking lot, 9990 Los Vaqueros Road, Byron, CA 94514

Directions: From Vasco Road, turn north at Los Vaqueros Reservoir entrance and drive 3.2 miles to the marina. You will need to stop at the gate and pay an entrance fee—be sure to tell them that you are hiking, not fishing, or you’ll have to pay an extra $5. Note: be sure to use the southern entrance to Los Vaqueros off Vasco Road, not the north entrance on Walnut Blvd.

(Photo by Seth Adams)

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 12AM. 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 contact Denise Castro at dcastro@savemountdiablo.org

How can I contact the organizer with any questions?

You can reach Denise Castro, Outreach & Education Associate, at dcastro@savemountdiablo.org