Mount Diablo Bird Alliance and Save Mount Diablo are partnering up for a hike in gorgeous Mitchell Canyon in Mount Diablo State Park. This hike provides birders with a large public area in which to explore birds of several habitats (including chaparral, riparian, oak woodlands, grassland, and rock outcrops). Over 200 bird species have been sighted on the mountain, and it is well known to birders for its superb examples of chaparral birds, spring migrants, and numerous raptors. Highlights of last year’s trip included seven warbler species, Lazuli bunting, a pair of golden eagles, Hammond’s flycatcher, California thrasher, and many others. If we’re really lucky we may have a chance at Bell’s Sparrow and Phainopepla. Black-chinned sparrow has been recorded at this site in the past. We’ll mostly walk on dirt fire roads, but a portion will be on a single-track trail. Be prepared for a range between flat terrain, lengthy gentle slopes, and short but steep uphill parts. Click here for eBird records from the site. Hat, sunscreen, water, and snack are recommended. Camera and hiking poles are optional.

Be sure to dress in layers and wear sturdy boots or shoes; bring plenty of water, binoculars (if you have them) sunscreen, and a snack. Heavy rain cancels.

***There will be a $6 park entrance fee (exact amount in cash required)

Participant Limit: 12 people

Land: Mount Diablo State Park

Rating: Moderate

Distance: 3 miles

Elevation change: 200 feet

Leader: Juan Pablo Galvan, Senior Land Use Manager for Save Mount Diablo & Conservation Chair for Mt Diablo Bird Alliance

Meet: Mitchell Canyon Staging Area, 96 Mitchell Canyon Rd, Clayton, CA 94517

GPS Coordinates: 37.920533, -121.941576

Directions: From Clayton Road you will turn onto Mitchell Canyon Road and drive approximately 1.7 miles south until you arrive at the Staging Area gate. if you do not have a State Parks Pass, please be sure to bring cash and fill out a fee envelope at the gate ($6 per vehicle fee). You will then proceed down the road into the parking lot. More parking is also available in a lower lot if you keep driving past the Visitor’s Center and through upper parking.

(Photo by Maren Smith)

FAQs

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.

Walk along beautiful Pine Creek and marvel at the magnificent rock formations and wildflowers. Bring binoculars to look for soaring peregrines. There are four creek crossings where hiking poles are very helpful if wet conditions. Be sure to bring plenty of water and a snack, and dress in layers. Sturdy shoes or hiking boots are recommended. Heavy rain cancels.

Participant Limit: 20 people

Land: East Bay Regional Parks District

Rating: Easy/Moderate

Distance: 3 miles

Elevation change:

Leader: Jennifer Russell, Save Mount Diablo Hike Leader

Meet: Orchard Staging Area Parking Lot in the Diablo Foothills Regional Park

1700 Castle Rock Rd, Walnut Creek, CA 94598

GPS Coordinates: 37.89092303995453, -121.99302381639912

Directions: Take Ygnacio Valley Rd. in Walnut Creek, right on Walnut Blvd., right on Castle Rock Road to parking area.

(Photo by Jennifer Russell)

FAQs

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.

Join us for a meander around the base of Mount Diablo to explore the medicinal plants growing along the trails at Mitchell Canyon. We will talk about the modern-day uses of the plants we see and discover some of the diversity that this abundant ecosystem holds. The walk will begin in the native plant garden at the Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center, where we will start our journey into the world of local medicinal herbs and their wonder/magic. Be sure to bring plenty of water and a snack, and dress in layers. Sturdy shoes or hiking boots are recommended. Heavy rain cancels.

***There will be a $6 park entrance fee (exact amount in cash required)

Participant Limit: 20 people

Land: Mount Diablo State Park

Rating: Easy

Distance: 2 miles

Elevation change: 200 feet

Leader: Anna Marie Beauchemin, RH(AHG) Herbalist and Educator, East Bay Herbals & Save Mount Diablo Hike Leader

Meet: Mitchell Canyon Interpretive Center parking area, Clayton, CA

GPS Coordinates:

Directions: From I-680, head east on Ygnacio Valley Road for 7.5 miles, then turn right on Clayton Road. Continue on Clayton Road, take a right on Mitchell Canyon Road, and follow it to the end.

(Photo by Haley Sutton)

FAQs

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.

Have you ever wondered about the many species of organisms that inhabit our world beyond the sidewalks and streets? This is the hike for you! Wonder and wander now with us while we explore along Curry Creek in the stunning Curry Canyon Ranch and into Mount Diablo State Park. We may see: Birds – Western Bluebirds, and several species of Warblers and Sparrows; Butterflies – Skippers, Blues, Tortoiseshells, Crescents, and Whites; Blooms – Delphiniums, Shooting Stars, Milkmaids, Blue Dicks, and Buttercups; and maybe Bobcat and native Bees. You won’t be disappointed if you have an inquisitive mind.

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

This hike is limited to 20 participants.

Land: Save Mount Diablo

Rating: Easy

Distance: 4 miles

Elevation change: 300′

Leader: Dan Fitzgerald, Save Mount Diablo Volunteer Hike Leader

Meet: 3500 Curry Canyon Rd, Clayton, CA

GPS Coordinates: 37.866193, -121.881976

Directions: From Ygnacio Valley Road, take a right onto Clayton Road, which becomes Marsh Creek Road. Follow Marsh Creek Road, then take a right onto Morgan Territory Road. Take a final right on Curry Canyon Road and go about 1.7 miles to 3500 Curry Canyon Road.

Note: Google Maps may tell you to make a U-turn once you are on Curry Canyon Road. Please ignore this and keep following the main road, you are going the correct way! Curry Canyon Road will also become a gravel road when you are almost to the property, do not be discouraged, you are still going the correct way! Lastly, there are many Private Property and No Trespassing Signs along the road, do not fret, as long as you stay on the main road you are still going the correct way!

(Photo by Laura Kindsvater)

FAQs

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.

This walk is all about wellness – a chance to slow down and clear your mind. Give yourself permission to take a break and immerse in the natural beauty. And if you’re looking for a unique way to celebrate Mother’s Day – bring mom along!

Forest immersion is a growing wellness practice that involves taking a guided walk in a natural setting to help reduce stress and anxiety and boost your health. Research shows that a 2-hour walk can lead to better heart health, improved blood pressure, a boost of creative thinking, or simply a sense of feeling relaxed and at ease.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just getting started, this walk is for everyone. While we will have a 1-mile hike to our location with some uphill sections, we will take it slow. Once we arrive, it’s time to slow down, relax, and savor your surroundings!

Please arrive early to allow time for parking and using the restroom, if needed. Restroom facilities are only available at our meeting location/Visitor’s Center.

What happens during the walk?
A forest immersion walk involves taking a slow, meditative walk through a natural setting. The guide’s role is to offer ways for attendees to interact with the natural surroundings and to help them slow down, both physically and mentally. The walk will consist of a general introduction by the guide, several invitations/activities to encourage relaxation, an optional opportunity to share with fellow attendees, and wrap up with a shared snack.

What will the guide provide?
The guide will have some sit pads, hand sanitizer, sunblock, a first aid kit, and some snacks available. The guide is also certified in CPR and Wilderness First Aid, should a need arise.

What should I wear/bring?
Dress in layers and bring a warm jacket/hat (if a cooler morning)

Sunglasses and a sun hat

Water and personal snack

A portable chair (if sitting on the ground is not preferable)

An epi pen or any other vital medicine

A small blanket (optional, for warmth or laying down)

An open and welcoming attitude

Sturdy shoes or hiking boots are recommended. Heavy rain cancels.

***There will be a $6 park entrance fee (exact amount in cash required)

Participant Limit: 12 people

Land: Mount Diablo State Park

Rating: Easy/Moderate

Distance: 1.6 miles

Elevation change: ~200 feet

Leader: Anya Starovoytov of Viburnum Forest Immersion. Anya is a forest bathing guide certified by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT) and has guided walks in the East Bay and Sonoma County. You can learn more about her and forest immersion walks on her website: https://www.viburnumfi.com/about-forest-immersion

Meet: Mitchell Canyon Staging Area, 96 Mitchell Canyon Rd, Clayton, CA 94517

GPS Coordinates: 37.920533, -121.941576

Directions: From Clayton Road you will turn onto Mitchell Canyon Road and drive approximately 1.7 miles south until you arrive at the Staging Area gate. if you do not have a State Parks Pass, please be sure to bring cash and fill out a fee envelope at the gate ($6 per vehicle fee). You will then proceed down the road into the parking lot. More parking is also available in a lower lot if you keep driving past the Visitor’s Center and through upper parking. I will meet you near the Visitor’s Center stairs so come find me there once you park!

(Photo by Scott Hein)

FAQs

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.

This is an immersive out-and-back hike up, along, and over one of the East Bay’s most spectacular ridges. Several species of oak call this place home, including unusual hybrids. We will learn about the oaks and their place in the wild community as we progress. There are tremendous wildflowers all along the way. The hike is not particularly long – about 4.5 miles – but what it lacks in distance it makes up for in intensity. The slopes are steep and can be slippery, so hiking poles are recommended. The route includes portions of Chamise, Mahogany, Las Trampas Ridge, and Corduroy Trails. Bathrooms are available at the start and end of the hike. Please bring food and drink. It will be nice to have our Sunday brunch along the way in a spot we choose.

Participant Limit: 15 people

Land: East Bay Regional Parks District

Rating: Strenuous

Distance: 4.5 miles

Elevation change: ~900 feet

Leader: Kevin Dixon, East Bay Regional Parks District Naturalist and SMD volunteer hike leader

Meet: Parking lot, 18015 Bollinger Canyon Road, San Ramon, CA 94583

https://maps.app.goo.gl/sZ9ihMbBuRkiKfu78

GPS Coordinates: 37°48’57.4″N 122°02’59.6″W

Directions: From I-580 in Castro Valley, take Crow Canyon Road north to Bollinger Canyon Road. Turn left (north) onto Bollinger Canyon Road and follow it into the park. From I-680 in San Ramon, take Crow Canyon Road west to Bollinger Canyon Road, turn right (north) and follow it into the park.

(Photo by Enesa Batakovic)

FAQs

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.

Join SMD’s Executive Director, Ted Clement and Land Programs Director, Sean Burke, on a fun day of exploring new trail connections in the Mount Diablo backcountry. SMD just opened an additional 3.17 miles of trails for recreation in between Curry Point and Morgan Territory. These trails will open multiple new loops for hikers, runners, mountain bikers and equestrians to get out and explore the amazing solitude, expansive vistas and potential for wildlife encounters that can only be found on the Southeastern side of the Mountain. There are multiple loops available to build off of the original trail system that we opened up two years ago. One could travel from Curry Point to Oyster Point, back up Riggs Canyon and through Knobcone and down to Curry Canyon Road. Another option could be travelling from Curry Point to Knobcone point, following Knobcone Point Trail to Curry Canyon Road and back to Curry Point, about 7.5 miles and 1300’ of elevation gain. The option we will be using will be Start at Curry Point, and travel to Knobcone Point, follow Knobcone Point Trail to Curry Cave Trail, where we will pass our recent Balcerzak acquisition along Grizzly Bear Road, dropping us into Curry Canyon where we will scoot on up the road back to our vehicles at Curry Point. Participants should be in good physical condition and have good hiking shoes, and or have bicycles in proper working order. This will be a 6-mile loop, with 1300’ of elevation gain. Be sure to bring plenty of water and a snack, and dress in layers. Sturdy shoes or hiking boots are recommended. Heavy rain cancels.

***There will be a $10 park entrance fee, exact cash is required.

Participant Limit: TBD

Land: Mount Diablo State Park/Save Mount Diablo’s Curry Canyon Ranch

Rating: Moderate/Strenuous

Distance: 6 miles

Elevation change: 1300 feet

Leader: Ted Clement, Save Mount Diablo’s Executive Director and Sean Burke, Save Mount Diablo’s Land Programs Director

Meet: Curry Point Parking Lot, S Gate Rd, Blackhawk, CA 94506

GPS Coordinates: 37.85225724393407, -121.92558577581023

Directions:

(Photo by Laura Kindsvater)

FAQs

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.

Enjoy a leisurely loop as we hike up Mitchell Canyon to Black Point Trail. Excite your eyes with vivid colors of wildflowers as we gradually climb to vista points within the state park. This route follows Mitchell Creek, bringing to life a well-established riparian ecosystem. Also see a chaparral ecosystem—one that covers a large part of Mount Diablo as well as California.

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

***There will be a $6 park entrance fee (exact amount in cash required)

Participant Limit: 20 people

Land: Mount Diablo State Park

Rating: Easy

Distance: 2 miles

Elevation change: 200 feet

Leader: Jim & Sharon Lawrence, Save Mount Diablo Volunteer Hike Leaders

Meet: Mitchell Canyon Interpretive Center parking area, 96 Mitchell Canyon Rd, Clayton, CA 94517

GPS Coordinates: 37.921228898460264, -121.94085040449127

Directions: From I-680, head east on Ygnacio Valley Road for 7.5 miles, then turn right on Clayton Road. Continue on Clayton Road, take a right on Mitchell Canyon Road, and follow it to the end.

(Photo by Jim Lawrence)

FAQs

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.

Come and join EBRPD Naturalist Kevin Dixon at Curry Canyon for an exciting Reptile Ramble in the hills of Mount Diablo. Spring is an excellent time to see the diverse lizard and snake populations of the mountain out and about. Keep your fingers crossed that we see an Alameda Whipsnake!

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

This hike is limited to 16 participants.

Land: Save Mount Diablo’s Curry Canyon Ranch

Rating: TBD

Distance: 4 miles

Elevation change: TBD

Leader: Kevin Dixon, EBRPD Naturalist & Save Mount Diablo Volunteer Hike Leader

Meet: 3500 Curry Canyon Rd, Clayton, CA 94517

GPS Coordinates: 37.866193, -121.881976

Directions: From Ygnacio Valley Road, take a right onto Clayton Road, which becomes Marsh Creek Road. Follow Marsh Creek Road, then take a right onto Morgan Territory Road. Take a final right on Curry Canyon Road and go about 1.7 miles to 3500 Curry Canyon Road.

Note: Google Maps may tell you to make a U-turn once you are on Curry Canyon Road. Please ignore this and keep following the main road, you are going the correct way! Curry Canyon Road will also become a gravel road when you are almost to the property, do not be discouraged, you are still going the correct way! Lastly, there are many Private Property and No Trespassing Signs along the road, do not fret, as long as you stay on the main road you are still going the correct way!

(Photo by Sean Burke)

FAQs

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.

Come join Save Mount Diablo on an exploration into the heart of the Diablo Range. Enjoy amazing views of steep rugged hillsides, beautiful wildflowers, soaring raptors, and the recovery from the SCU Lighting Complex wildfires.

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 not available.

This hike is limited to 20 participants.

Land: Stanislaus County

Rating: Strenuous

Distance: 5 miles

Elevation change: 1,000′

Leader: Sean Burke, Save Mount Diablo Land Programs Director

Meet: Turn off east of Minniear Day Use Area at Frank Raines Park on Highway 130

GPS Coordinates: 37.424484, -121.342657

Directions: Coming South on I-5, take exit 434 toward Sperry Ave/Diablo Grande Pkwy, then turn right onto CA-130/Del Puerto Canyon Road. The meeting spot will be at a turn out on the right hand side of the road about 14 miles into Del Puerto Canyon.

(Photo by Kendra Smith)

FAQs

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.