Fall for the East Bay Less Traveled

 Me time? Yes, you time! You and any of your favorite hiking buddies. Or not. However you like your space, these three less-traveled East Bay hikes deliver everything from simple serenity to peak bliss, and a plateau with room to roam.

 

Week: 11.11.2026
Regions: Northern CA

Rising Sunol

Hike Sunol’s lesser-known Maguire Peaks for big views

East Bay
Hikes
The East Bay is a treasure trove of hidden peaks, with some so remote you’ll have more sightings of wildlife than humans! Come hike the lesser-known massif, Maguire Peaks, on this 6-mile loop through Sunol Wilderness Regional Preserve.
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Extra-Celestial Central Oregon

Dark Sky Adventures in Central Oregon

Points Beyond
Relaxing, Overnight Escapes, Hikes
Sponsored
Some trips promise you the moon and the stars. And this one delivers in a big way, plus throws in some extra planets for your viewing pleasure. From Bend, Sunriver, and Sisters to Antelope Basecamp in the remote high desert.
Visit Central Oregon

Opt for Oursan

Hike Along the Shores of Briones Reservoir in the East Bay

East Bay
Hikes, Dog Friendly
Hike the Oursan Trail alongside Briones Reservoir in the East Bay
Hike the trail less traveled in the East Bay's Briones Regional Park. The Oursan Trail is pure serenity on a wide hiking path skirting the northern shores of Briones Reservoir.
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Plateau Perfection

Hike a loop of the Bay Area Ridge Trail at Vargas Plateau in the East Bay

East Bay
Hikes, Dog Friendly
Vargas Plateau withe cows in the background in the East Bay
Hiker on a trail at Vargas Plateau in the East Bay
Bay Area Ridge Trail sign pointing the way in Vargas Plateau East Bay
Set deep in the East Bay hills, Vargas Plateau Regional Park is a secluded grassland that’s home to several endangered and threatened species. Hike a 4-mile loop of the Bay Area Ridge Trail here.
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A Hiker looking over a mountain range

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