The southern side of Mount Diablo can be a shady relief from the open grasslands, and its Curry Point makes for a great starting point for a more mellow summer outing.
This looped hike is perfect for those looking to beat the heat with abundant shade while seeking the area’s mesmerizing views.
Distance: 2.8 miles
Elevation change: 550 feet
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Hiking time: One and a half to three hours
Trail surface: Single-track trail
Best seasons: Late spring, early summer
Hours: 8 AM to sunset
Managing agency: California State Parks
Trailhead location: Curry Point, Mount Diablo State Park
Description: The Curry Point parking area is rather small, so you’ll want to time your hike accordingly to luck out on a space. However, this hike can also be enjoyed from other parking spaces along South Gate Road.
Photo by Claire Elliot
On this first half of the hike, be on the lookout for the gorgeous yellow mariposa lily (Calochortus luteus), which might still be blooming in the area.
Beginning from the Curry Point parking area, head east on Knobcone Point Road for about three quarters of a mile before turning right onto Devil’s Slide Trail to Sycamore Creek Road.
Please note that there is a lot of encroaching poison oak along Devil’s Slide Trail, so you’ll want to wear long pants to avoid it touching your skin.
Madrone Canyon. Photo by Scott Hein
Once you reach the Trail Through Time. take a right and continue westward toward Rock City.
This section of the Trail through Time runs through Madrone Canyon on the way to Rock City, then along South Gate Road right through Rock City.
At Rock City, you can enjoy a great spot with iconic rock formations; there are several tables where you can rest and enjoy a nice picnic. Finishing up the trek, briefly take Summit Road and cross South Gate Road to get back to Curry Point.
We hope you enjoy this hike! Please check out our regional trail map to find more great places to hike close to home.
This blog post was updated on July 10, 2025.
