Ohlone Greenway

The Ohlone Greenway spans approximately 4.5 to 5.3 miles (7.2 to 8.5 km) from Berkeley to Richmond. It notably connects in the north with the Richmond Greenway, which can lead towards the San Rafael Bridge, and also offers connections to the Emeryville Greenway (partially on roads) towards Oakland and the SF Bay Bridge.

Yes, the Ohlone Greenway is an excellent choice for beginners and individuals with limited mobility. It features a generally flat, paved surface and is designated as an ADA-accessible trail, ensuring a smooth and easy experience for all users, including those in wheelchairs or with strollers.

Yes, dogs are generally permitted on the Ohlone Greenway. Many sections, particularly in parks like Ohlone Park in Berkeley, feature off-leash dog parks. However, it's always best practice to keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them, especially in shared multi-use areas.

The Ohlone Greenway runs parallel to the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) Richmond line for most of its length, providing excellent public transport access. Several BART stations are directly accessible from the trail, including North Berkeley, El Cerrito Plaza, and El Cerrito del Norte, making it easy to start or end your journey at various points.

Absolutely! The Greenway is rich with features. You'll find several community gardens like the Karl Linn, Peralta, and Northside gardens in Berkeley. In El Cerrito, there's a mini-park with play equipment and even a special frog habitat and wetland restoration area. Additionally, keep an eye out for various public art installations and murals that depict the region's history and culture.

As a popular urban trail, the Ohlone Greenway can experience moderate to high traffic, particularly on weekends and during peak commuting hours. Cyclists and pedestrians share the path, so it's advisable to be mindful of others and maintain a safe speed. For a quieter experience, consider visiting during weekday mornings or late afternoons.

The Ohlone Greenway passes through several urban areas, providing convenient access to various amenities. You'll find opportunities to access local cafes, shops, and restaurants directly from the trail in cities like Berkeley, Albany, and El Cerrito. While dedicated restrooms directly on the trail might be limited, facilities are often available in adjacent parks or businesses.

Yes, some sections of the Ohlone Greenway are equipped with outdoor exercise courses and gym equipment. These installations offer a great opportunity to incorporate a strength or stretching workout into your walk or ride, enhancing the recreational value of the trail.

The Ohlone Greenway follows the route of a former railway line, with its origins tracing back to the 1880s when it served various railroads, including the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway. The land was later donated to the cities in 1979, and the 'linear park' was developed in conjunction with BART construction. Its name honors the Indigenous Ohlone people who historically inhabited the Central California coastal areas.

While the Ohlone Greenway itself is a linear path, its connections to other trails like the Richmond Greenway allow for extended cycling adventures. You can also explore various city streets and local parks adjacent to the Greenway to create your own loop routes or longer journeys through the East Bay.