LISA HIKES FROM A TO Z
CASTLE ROCK DIABLO FOOTHILLS LOOP
Just east of San Francisco is Castle Rock, a prominent congregation of vertical sandstone formations. Sculpted by nature, they are striking and are a unique spot among the surrounding foothills. My K9 companion, Max, joined me on this 4.3 mile trek on the Castle Rock Diablo Foothills Loop. We enjoyed a gorgeous early spring day filled with warm sunshine and fresh air.
The adventure began in Castle Rock Regional Recreation Area, an amazing space for picnicking, volleyball, swimming, and equestrian activities. The area resides within Diablo Foothills Regional Park, 1060 scenic acres filed with plentiful trails for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. The trailhead was easily accessible from the large parking area with clear markers for the trails and off-leash areas.
Starting mid afternoon we headed counter clockwise on the trail. Max enjoyed roaming off leash for the majority of our hike. He did great going up and down and around the foothills!
A great thing about this trail is that the total elevation change is less than 1000 feet. Max and his little legs had no problem conquering this trail.
We encountered a few other people enjoying the trail, some with their dogs or biking. The wide trails allowed plenty of space to pass by while saying hi.
Although this trail didn't bring us right up to Castle Rock, we had a scenic panoramic hike-by. Hiking to it would have been an easy addition to our adventure. For a direct hike to Castle Rock, check out the Castle Rock Stage Coach Trail
We ended our hike right at dusk. While re-hydrating before heading home we enjoyed a sunset view of Walnut Creek in the distance.
RETRACE LISA'S
(AND MAX'S) STEPS
TRAIL FACTS
Name: Castle Rock Diablo Foothills Loop
Type: Loop
Total Distance: 4.3 Miles
Starting Elevation: 350ft
Elevation Gain: 755ft
NEED TO KNOW
PARK MAP: Here
PARKING: Free, Orchard Staging Area
PARK FEES: Free
AMENITIES: Restrooms, located on Stage Road Trail, south of the parking lot
TIPS
Go counter clockwise on this trail to enjoy a more gradual incline at the start.
Diablo Foothills Regional Park is next to Mount Diablo State Park and can be accessed through joining trails. It is worth checking out, though we had to pass it up since no dogs are allowed. For a long hike between the two parks, consider this 7.8 mile loop.
Easy as ABC! Let's go see...
