Abrigo Valley/Black Oak Trail, Briones Regional Park, all levels – Sun., Feb 28
When: Sunday, Feb 28, 3 p.m. – 5 p.m
Description: We’ll take the wide, nearly level trail that follows Abrigo Valley through riparian and oak woodland until we reach the Mott Peak Trail at approximately 1 mile. This is a good turn-around point for those opting for a shorter, flatter hike. From here, we climb up a steep hillside to reach the Black Oak Trail. Views abound of the north bay from here. Faster walkers may elect to climb higher still to reach the Briones Crest Trail to the left and circle back to the Abrigo Valley Trail which will return to the parking lot. Alternatively we can take the Black Oak Trail (a shorter route) downhill to the Old Briones Road and back to the parking lot.
Where: Bear Valley Staging Area, 16 Bear Creek Road. After passing the park kiosk, turn left into the parking area. We will meet there. Accessible potties are available here. Do NOT go to the Releiz Valley staging area!
Directions: From NORTH BERKELEY BART take Sacramento to Monterey and turn L. At Marin, turn slight right, then follow Marin to Grizzley Peak Bvd. Turn R.At Shasta Road, turn L. Follow until you meet Wildcat Cyn Road. Take it to the right. Follow it until you reach Inspiration Point ay which point the road name changes to Wildcat Cyn Trail. Follow this past San Pablo Dam Road, where it becomes Bear Creek Road. Follow this 4.4 miles to Briones Valley Road. The Bear Valley Staging area of the Briones Regional Park is at 16 Bear Creek Road. Turn right here and drive in until you come to the park Kiosk. Turn left into the Parking lot. This should take about 25 – 35 minutes.
FROM ROCKRIDGE BART, Take Hwy 24 east to Orinda exit. Turn L onto Camino Pablo Road. Go 2+ miles till you come to Bear Creek Road. Turn R. Follow this 4.4 miles to Briones Valley Road. The Bear Valley Staging area of the Briones Regional Park is at 16 Bear Creek Road. Turn right here and drive in until you come to the park Kiosk. Turn left into the Parking lot. This should take about 25 minutes.
Carpools: If you need a ride or can provide a ride, especially from North Berkeley BART or Rockridge BART, please post to the Nature Walks email forum.
Bring: Layered clothing for variable weather, hiking boots or trail shoes; hiking poles if you use them on hikes.) The Abrigo Trail may be muddy, so plan accordingly.
Weather: Real rain cancels.
Contact: For questions or RSVP write Audre at audrenew@gmail.com, or phone 510-548-0530 and leave a message.