Rising Sunol
Hike Sunol’s lesser-known Maguire Peaks for big views
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.
From the Maguire Peaks trailhead, hike north on Maguire Peaks Trail. This winding dirt path gains elevation quickly, so take breaks to enjoy the local wildlife. Scrub jays, Steller’s jays, and acorn woodpeckers are the noisiest residents on this stretch and are easy to spot among the oak trees.
At the intersection with Maguire Peaks Loop Trail, turn left. As you step out of the forest, the trail mellows out on a long stretch through cow pastures. This grassy section is a great place to spot reptiles, including fence lizards, gopher snakes, and (be careful!) rattlesnakes.
As the trail curves to the north, the terrain grows rockier. Keep your eyes trained on the ground to spot ground squirrels, enormous desert stink beetles, or (for very lucky autumn hikers) tarantulas.
At the park bench, take a quick breather, then follow the steep, narrow trail behind the bench all the way to the top of Maguire Peak. Savor that view! Here, at 1,688 feet, Lake Del Valle, Calaveras Reservoir, and San Antonio Reservoir are brilliant blue pools nestled among the golden hills. To the southwest, the backside of Mission and Monument Peaks is visible. Directly to the east is the second peak in the Maguire Peaks massif (this peak cannot be hiked).
Retrace the trail back down to the bench, then turn right to continue on the Maguire Peaks Loop. The trail curves around the eastern side of the summits as it descends, and you’ll often share the route with curious calves and wild hogs. When the trail intersects Maguire Peaks Trail, turn left to retrace the route all the way back to the trailhead.
The Maguire Peaks trailhead is located on Welch Creek Road in Sunol.
Park in the dirt pullouts just beyond the trailhead. Parking on Welch Creek Road requires a $5 permit on weekends and holidays, available at the Sunol park entry kiosk or visitor center. Weekdays are free. Sunol Wilderness Regional Preserve opens at 8 a.m., with closing times varying seasonally. Dog-friendly!
