The Top 20 Lakes in the Coast Range

Lake Merritt was a large tidal lagoon in San Francisco Bay that was dammed off as Oakland grew as a city. It is 155 acres in size, and it was … read more

The Warren Richardson Trail is a gravel and dirt path that begins at the main entrance on the eastern side of the park. It ascends to the summit of the … read more

Point Emery, located on the SF Bay Trail, is a charming little park with stellar bay views, walking paths, and relaxation spots with benches along the trails. Open daily from … read more

Inspiration Point sits at nearly 1,000 feet of elevation, offering views over Inspiration Creek, San Pablo Dam Road, and the San Pablo Creek reservoir. With parking and restroom facilities nearby, it's a good start-and-end point for a loop.

Nice ten mile segment climbing out of Milpitas away from development into the rural Calaveras Valley. Interesting to see the rebuilt Calaveras Dam, completed after a nine year seismic retrofit in 2019.

Preferred starting point for Coyote Creek trail rides going south. The trail is much cleaner southwards from this point. North of this, I find sketchy segments. You can park outside … read more

Lake Ilsanjo is a small quiet lake near the top of Canyon trail. A hidden gem for a break or a swim. It is much quieter than Santa Rosa Reservoir … read more

One of the few paved sections of the still incomplete Bay Trail. Mostly squeezed in between the bay and the freeway frontage road, with noise and rushing cars diminishing the otherwise outstanding natural views across the bay.

The Piedmont Ponds on the Penitencia Creek Trail are a collection of small ponds in San José just off this popular multi-use path. This is a nice spot to begin … read more