Crockett in Your Pocket

Hiking to huge views at Crockett Hills Regional Park in the East Bay

10.05.2017

There are plenty of reasons to add Crockett Hills Regional Park to your checklist of East Bay apexes. Overlooking the Carquinez Strait, the park is home to Edwards Sky Loop, a 2.1-mile (round-trip) hike that’s short in distance but long on views, including the Carquinez Bridge and its surrounding Delta views. From the Crockett Ranch Staging Area, take the trail to the left.

Crunchy amber-colored leaves stick to the the dirt path as you gently climb amid golden hills. After half a mile uphill the trail turns to the right. The Carquinez Bridge looms ahead. Peaceful pastures unfurl below, out to San Pablo Bay.

A bonus: This trail teems with wildlife. Red-tailed hawks and osprey weave through the trees here. If you’re lucky, you might even see a golden eagle.

Park at the Crockett Ranch Staging Area (no fee). Get a map at the trailhead. Take the Edwards Creek Trail. Watch for poison oak. The trail is also popular with mountain bikers. Dog-friendly!

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