Castle Rock and the China Wall

Our adventure takes under the spectacular cliffs of Castle Rock, up the Little Yosemite trail, and past the enigmatic China Wall. Along the way, we'll be on the lookout for early season botanical bloomers.

Part of our route follows the 19th century stagecoach road up Mount Diablo. The road passes a sulfur spring that a stagecoach passenger described as smelling "like the cleanings from Rip Van Winkle's gun barrel, with some rotten eggs that came around Cape Horn with the 49ers mixed in." Phew!

TOTAL DISTANCE

This is a moderate 5-mile hike with about 500 feet in elevation gain.

LEADERS

Lily Parry and Ken Lavin.

WEATHER POLICY

Rain cancels.

COST

Free; Reservations required.

WHERE TO MEETS

We'll assemble at the staging area for Castle Rock Regional Recreation Area at the end of Castle Rock Road in Walnut Creek.

NOTES

Bring snacks and water. Dress in layers and wear good hiking shoes. Bring poles if you normally use them. If you have any questions about this outing, email Ken Lavin at [email protected]

Photo: David Abercrombie via Flickr

Lily Parry is a passionate naturalist currently studying Environmental Science at Diablo Valley College. Lily loves spending time outdoors, whether it’s hiking, volunteering, or exploring and learning about native plants. She's excited to bring her enthusiasm for nature and growing knowledge of environmental science to help guide hikes and connect with others who share a love for the outdoors.
Ken Lavin is the Outing Coordinator for Greenbelt Alliance and has been leading our free educational outings for over a decade. Ken worked as a national park ranger in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and as an instructor for Diablo Nature Adventures, teaching environmental science to school groups in Mount Diablo State Park.

Host or Publisher Greenbelt Alliance