Del Valle Regional Park: Ridgeline Loop Trail

Del Valle Regional Park: Ridgeline Loop Trail

Although boating and fishing on artificial Lake Del Valle are the prime attractions of this regional park, there are also fine trails to explore in the surrounding hills. This loop follows the East Shore and Ridgeline trails, taking you from the water’s edge through oak savanna to grassy ridgetops, where views extend north to the Livermore Valley, and south to the Ohlone Wilderness. From the northwest end of the parking area, beyond a boat ramp, toilets, information board, and gate, follow the East Shore Trail, a dirt road beside the lake, which is left. From time to time on this route, narrow paths diverge from the road; unless indicated in the description, ignore them. At Hetch Hetchy Camp, a clearing with a water fountain, picnic table, and toilets, you pass the Hetch Hetchy Trail, right, and continue straight beside the lake, whose level fluctuates by about 25 feet during the year. Across the water, a high, forested ridge guards access to the Ohlone Wilderness, reached via a steep climb from the lake’s southwest shore.

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