Self Guided Hikes

The Muir Heritage Land Trust's preserved properties and surrounding environs are ideal for hiking. Whether you are looking for a quick stroll to enjoy nature or an opportunity to learn more about our local natural heritage, hiking will always allow you to enjoy the natural beauty of Contra Costa's very special landscapes.

The following are some recommended hikes that you may enjoy. Each listing includes a link to further helpful information.

Dutra Ranch, Sky Ranch & Gustin Properties Trail Guide

Dutra and Sky Ranch (4 mile partial loop) The Dutra Ranch, Sky Ranch multi-use trail ascends to the top of Franklin Ridge. If you are in the mood for a hike with spectacular, world class views, consider hiking on this Muir Heritage Land Trust property. Take Franklin Rd. a couple of miles to Dutra Road. make a left and park your car on the left after you cross under the train trestle. There is a gate on the left in front of the horse corrals. The first mile is a gentle uphill climb through a wooded canyon. After a mile there is another gate that is the beginning of a two mile loop trail that makes you feel as though you are on top of the world. On a good day you can see the Sierras. All of this land is owned by the Muir Heritage Land Trust for you to enjoy.

Mt. Wanda (2.3 mile partial loop) The Mt. Wanda trail ascends through grassy hills and oaks adjacent to John Muir's home in Martinez. Park your car in the lot at the intersection of Alhambra Avenue and Franklin Canyon Road. The trailhead is to the right of the parking area. The first half mile of the hike is uphill. Then comes a one and a half mile loop trail through a beautiful grove of oak trees. Then back down the hill to civilization.

Franklin Hills Throne (2.5 miles) This trail ascends the beautiful Martinez Ridge. To reach the throne, take Alhambra Avenue in Martinez to "H" Street. Go to the end of Canyon Way and park next to the back fence of the John Muir National Historic Site. After parking, continue on Canyon Way through the EBRPD gate. A signpost marks the trail, on the right hand side. A former landowner of the hills constructed the stone throne on one of the hilltops, under a lone Valley Oak. It comes into sight at the top of the ridge.

F Street Trail (1 mile) When you look at the hills on the western side of Alhambra Avenue in Martinez, you might think that it would be a long hike to get to the top. But this is not the case. If you make a left on F street, you will see a trail starting at the end of the street that gets you to the top in twenty minutes. The wide trail follows a creek and is shaded most of the way. The first part is steep but becomes easier after five minutes. At the top, you can also hike south to the John Muir Historic Site or north to the shoreline.

Nejedley Staging Area to F Street (4.5 miles) Start at the Nejedely park parking lot which is the first left past the cemetery on Carquinez Scenic Drive in Martinez. This hike takes about two hours. After leaving the staging area it is a one mile climb, the most challenging part of the route. Then comes a gentle walk across open expanses that convey a feeling of solitude.

Shepherds Canyon ( 2.25 miles) Shepherd's Canyon is west of Martinez, on Carquinez Scenic Drive just above the Ozol pier in the Carquinez Strait. There is parking just outside a fire gate adjacent to a meadow. The trail crosses a seasonal creek and follows up the canyon. As one ascends the trail the rounded slopes of the ridge lay to the left. The tree covered creek bed lay below to the right. Oaks, Bay Laurels and Buckeyes abound.

Vaca Creek Trail (1.5 miles) Turn into the drive at 5355 Alhambra Valley Road in Martinez. Drive a short distance to the end of the public road (do not cross the creek) and park under the Walnut trees. The Vaca Creek Trail is suited to a leisurely walk, stroll or ramble. In this short distance, hikers can see the impacts of our changing use of the land. The neatly plowed pear orchard is a result of late 19th and early 20th century agricultural use. Along the trail, Himalayan Blackberry andEuropean grasses are the results of early 20th century ranching. Periwinkle and Redwood trees come from late 20th century landscaping. Today the trail is permanently preserved by the Muir Heritage Land Trust in cooperation with the East Bay Regional Park District. ____________________________________________________________________

All organized activities start at 9 a.m. unless otherwise specified. Most last 2-3 hours and are of moderate pace. The activities are free, though some require reservations. Heavy rain cancels the activity unless otherwise noted in the description. If there is light rain or the threat of rain, go to the meeting place. Activity durations are averages based on our experience. However, always allow extra time in your schedule for unusual circumstances, or the slower pace of some groups. You can help by arriving a little early to ensure a prompt start for each activity.

To ensure that your experience is enjoyable, follow this important advice:

• For all hikes, wear boots or sturdy walking shoes appropriate for trails.
• Dress in layers (T-shirt, long-sleeved shirt, sweater and/or jacket). The weather can be unpredictable. No matter what season it is, be prepared for rain, wind, fog, or sun!
• Carry ample water with you to drink. Water is not available on preserves.
• Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen) and insect repellent.
• Restrooms are not always available; please plan accordingly.

If you have a group of 10 or more people that would like to attend a docent-led activity, please contact us.

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