Oftentimes during the colder months we want to stay inside. Raincoats and muddy boots seem like too much work and we might be tempted to stay cooped up indoors but sweet mama I want to encourage you to make those sweet memories with your children. Pack that lunch to go, grab some extra shoes and clothes, drive to that destination, enjoy the fresh air and your children. The Bay Area has some strict shut down restrictions during Covid-19 so spending time outdoors will help you mentally, spiritually, and physically.
Morgan Territory Regional Preserve
We went to Round Valley Regional Preserve and started our hike from the Morgan Territory Staging Area. From here we went on the Condor Trail then onto the Volvon Trail until we turned onto the Stone Corral Trail back towards the parking lot until we finally took Coyote Trail to the parking lot. While this is the route we took you can easily customize your trail experience so that it is longer or shorter than ours. The maps offered at the trailhead definitely helped us traverse this park and helped us enjoy our experience. We hiked nearly 5 miles as we walked on grass covered hills and among the trees.
Located at 9401 Morgan Territory Road, Livermore, CA 94551.
Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve
There is a 2.9 mile long loop trail in Black Diamond Mines Regional Park called Lougher Loop. This is the trail we took. When it comes to plants and such this hike has the tags wildflowers and overgrown so it is certain they aren’t spraying Round-Up here. This trail can be muddy, you’ll find cow prints, and cow dung everywhere so watch your step.
Located at 5175 Somersville Rd, Antioch, CA 94509.
Round Valley Regional Preserve
We took the Miwok Trail and Murphy Meadow Trail which is a six mile long trail. We went on a wet and muddy day. When we first started the trail we had to walk down hill and two women in front of us had the hardest time. They kept sliding and holding onto branches and grass nearby. We walked downhill on the grass and not the path because the path was so slippery. We ran into cows, bikers, and people riding on horses. In puddles we found horsehair worms which are actually parasites. They are not a threat to animals or humans but are sure interesting to observe.
Located at Marsh Creek Rd, Brentwood, CA 94513.
Contra Loma Regional Park
There are six trails to choose from at this park but on this particular day we chose the Contra Loma Loop from the Antioch Community Park. This loop is 3.6 miles. It is actually the longest trail at the park but worth the extra two miles. The green rolling hills, wild flowers, and lake makes this trail a wonderful choice. If you love bird watching you’ll find a variety of birds here.
Located at 1200 Fredrickson Ln, Antioch, CA 94509.
Waterbird Regional Preserve
The Meadow Ridge Loop is a 1.7 mile loop. Here we passed by a herd of cows. We came here on a warm day. There is no shade so you’ll want to come here early in the morning or during the cooler months of the year. The view from here isn’t the best, unless refineries in your eyes are considered beautiful. The trail isn’t well marked. There is a bench near the parking lot that you can rest at. From the bench you will be overlooking the marsh that is full of a variety of birds. We spotted a couple with binoculars, enjoying the birds up close.
Located at 2701 Waterfront Rd, Martinez, CA 94553.
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