Fernandez Ranch and the Bay Area Ridge Trail

Our hike takes us over hill and dale in this beautiful open space, preserved and managed by the John Muir Land Trust. Once a working ranchland, the park offers picturesque views, a variety of plant communities, and an abundance of wildlife. Our route includes the Whipsnake, Woodrat, Windmill, and Black Phoebe Trails.

We'll also hike a portion of the Bay Area Ridge Trail. Fun fact: The 413-mile-long Bay Area Ridge Trail and its governing council began as the result of a partnership dating back to 1987 between Greenbelt Alliance, government agencies, and citizen advocates.

Photo: Ken Lavin

TOTAL DISTANCE

This is an easy to moderate hike of about 5 miles round trip with several hundred feet in elevation gain. You may opt for a shorter 2-1/2 mile hike.

LEADERS

Liz Watson & Ken Lavin.

WEATHER POLICY

Rain cancels.

COST

Free; Reservations required.

WHERE TO MEET

We’ll assemble at the parking area/trailhead for Fernandez Ranch.

NOTES

Bring liquids, snacks, and lunch. Dress in layers and wear good hiking shoes. Bring poles if you normally use them. Restrooms and water are available near the trailhead. Please, no dogs on this outing. If you have questions about this outing, please email Ken Lavin at [email protected].

Liz Watson is a special education teacher for Contra Costa County. She teaches at Liberty High School in Brentwood. Liz is a certified California naturalist and is a member of the Mount Diablo peregrine falcon team.

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.

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