Del Valle Daytrippin'

Reservoir to Ridgetop Hike in Livermore

06.20.2019

Livermore is popular for its tasty wines, but it has another liquid asset for a triple-play summer day. Head to the East Bay’s Del Valle Regional Park for a reservoir-to-ridge hike, a scenic boat ride, and some beach time.

From the boat launch area, start hiking on the East Shore Trail. This 3.3-mile hike covers a scenic portion of the 16-mile shoreline and surrounding hillsides. Take the second right onto the Hetch Hetchy Trail (marked by a bathroom!) and hike uphill, soaking in the golden valley views. A bench near the top is a nice spot for catching your breath. At the top, keep left to meet up with the Ridgeline Trail and hike across a narrow ridge with beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding oak-dotted valley before descending back to the shoreline. Make your way back to East Beach for a picnic or a dip in the lake, or rent a pontoon or pedal boat, or go on a history boat tour of the lake.

CAMP HERE: Make a reservation to camp at one of Lake Del Valle’s 150 sites.

The hiking trail offers minimal shade. Water is available along the East Shore Trail near the bathrooms and at East Beach. Boat rentals, including motorboats, canoes, and kayaks, are available at East Beach marina area. Call 510-544-3146 for the boat history tour times. Park entrance fees are $6 per vehicle and $2 for a dog; service dogs are free. Dog-friendly!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. Afternoon on the Island

    What is it about tiny islands in the middle of lakes? There’s something that just draws you in. It’s even more fun when getting there is half the adventure because you have to reach it by canoe, kayak, paddleboat, or a ranger-guided boat tour!

    View

  2. Gentle Giants

    Some people visit national parks to marvel at the iconic sights, while others come seeking solitude in nature. With visitation on the rise, it can be hard to find both. But in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, this pair of trails offers both....

    View

  3. Rio Del Mar-velous

    Rio Del Mar State Beach in Aptos might be one of the best places for a treasure hunt. Its location between two other beaches makes for a good stroll featuring a spectacle of wildlife as you search the sand for sea glass and seashells.

    View
  4. Hiker taking a photo of sunset at Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve

    Sunshine and Skyline

    Head to Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve for a 4-mile out-and-back hike on the Bay Area Ridge Trail that offers a front-row seat to spectacular sunsets.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Walking the Los Angeles River Trail Through Frogtown

    Frogtown Strutter’s Stroll

    Don’t go dismissing the Los Angeles River as merely a 51-mile concrete channel. It’s a genuine urban artery that links real neighborhoods, and its riverside bike/ped paths endear i

    View
  2. Sponsored

    Chase Fall Colors & Family Fun in Reno Tahoe

    Ready to Reno? We’re so with you! Reno Tahoe is the ultimate urban basecamp for gathering family and friends for all kinds of fall fun and festivities.

    View

  3. Griffith's Golden

    With over 4,200 acres and hundreds of trails, Griffith Park is the gold standard. Opt for the lesser-hiked northwestern end of the park and visit the 2.25-mile Skyline and Oak Canyon loop from Travel Town.

    View

  4. Ernie's Walk

    Stretching 51 miles from Canoga Park to Long Beach, the Los Angeles River has no shortage of walkways to enjoy. One segment that is particularly special is Ernie’s Walk in Sherman Oaks, a 0.3-mile stretch that is a delight to visit, and pay respect to its inspiration.

    View