Orinda Original

Do a short urban hike to big views in Orinda Oaks Park

12.10.2025
A woman looks out to the scenery while standing next to a bench on a high point on a hike in Orinda Oaks Park in the East Bay

This 3.5-mile out-and-back through Orinda Oaks Park and Moraga offers scenic vistas right inside the city.

Two people walking a wide and flat trail at Orinda Oaks Park in the East Bay

A woman walks her dog with views of the foothills in Orinda Oaks Park in the East Bay Contra Costa County

Start at the Orinda Oaks parking lot and head uphill on the Ridge Trail, a winding dirt path that quickly gains elevation as you pass enormous thistle flowers lining the route.

A woman hiker stops to smell the giant thistleflower on a hiking trail in Contra Costa County

Continue up toward Donald Drive. (It’s handy to use an online map here, as the official route is not the most obvious one.) Once you’ve reached Donald Drive, savor the view of the valley below.

Turn right to walk along Donald Drive. Both Orinda Oaks Park and neighboring Mulholland Ridge Open Space are leash-optional areas, making this a dog-lover’s paradise! Enjoy walking alongside several fur-friends as you stroll far above Moraga. To the east, colossal Mount Diablo dominates the skyline.

In a mile, the road makes a hairpin turn. After soaking up views of nearby vineyards, turn around and retrace the route back to Orinda Oaks Park. Here you’ll find a picnic area beside a bocce court and horseshoe pit. Enjoy a packed lunch before heading back to the parking lot.

The Orinda Oaks parking lot is located on Moraga Ave. in Orinda. Map. Dog-friendly!

Story and photos by Heather Werner, @heath.er.wer.ner

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. Roaring Redwoods

    Tucked next to brilliant Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park in Santa Cruz, the folks at Roaring Camp Railroads had a bright idea: When the sun goes down, the rainbow lights come up. Sequoias at Night brings big magic to some of the tallest trees in the world.

    View
  2. Barbary Coast Trail medallion hike in San Francisco

    Medallion Walk SF

    The Barbary Coast Trail is a 3.8-mile historical walk and treasure hunt through San Francisco. Be on the lookout for hubcap-sized bronze medallions placed on the city sidewalks with arrows pointing you in the right direction.

    View
  3. Sponsored

    Autumn Magic in Yosemite Mariposa County

    Yosemite Mariposa County is where golden moments unfold all season long. Watch the sun's warm glow settle over El Capitan and Half Dome, then wander quietly in Mariposa Grove. Beyo

    View

  4. Greater by the Dozen

    This hike is anything but a dime a dozen. The all-new "Golden Gate Dozen Trail" links 12 National Park sites on a spectacular 13-mile journey across San Francisco's coastline.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories

  1. The Big Chill

    In LA, finding a place to chill can be the ultimate flex. So flex, in Franklin Canyon! This unexpected oasis has plenty of shade, cool lake breezes, and ample picnicking spots. Enjoy it on an easy-going 1-mile stroll along its reservoir and duck pond.

    View

  2. Shimmering Paddle

    Uniquely situated where the Russian River meets the rugged Pacific coast, Jenner is a shining star of kayaking destinations. It’s even better on a guided paddle at sunset, under a full moon, or during peak bioluminescent season.

    View

  3. Holcomb We Haven't Camped Here?

    Holcomb Valley Campground in the San Bernardino National Forest has 19 pine-shaded sites, all of them first-come, first-served.

    View

  4. Rancho Style

    Vicente Bluffs Reserve dazzles anytime, but during the golden hour it’s an absolute knockout. Majestic rocky bluffs, dreamy ocean views, and a picturesque lighthouse are just a few of the reasons.

    View