Top 9 Hiking And Trekking Spots In Berkeley, California

1. Upper Jordan Fire Trail

Upper Jordan Fire Trail is a moderately trafficked 5.9-mile-long (9.5 km) trail. It passes through a combination of terrains, with the first mile being the toughest to complete. After that, the hiking becomes more interesting, given that the trail will be passing through Chaparral Peak, Strawberry Canyon, and Panoramic Hill. Not only is the trek refreshing to the body, but the beautiful sceneries are also gratifying to the eye—especially from an elevation of 1,230 meters (4,035 feet) above sea level.

Upper Jordan Fire Trail

Address: 425 Lower Fire Trail, Berkeley, CA

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

2. Vollmer Peak Trail

Vollmer Peak Trail starts from Arroyo Picnic Area and runs along Tilden Regional Park on South Park Drive before ascending to the summit area via the hillside. The trail is about 2.8 miles (4.5 km), and it is a lightly trafficked trail in a great forest setting. For those who manage to reach the peak, not only will you love the experience of hiking through the forest, but also an epic 360-degree panoramic view of San Pablo, Mount Diablo, and San Francisco Bay awaits. As this is a moderate trail, people of all fitness levels will not find any challenges hiking this trail.

Vollmer Peak Trail

Address: Vollmer Peak Trail, CA

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

3. Quarry Trail

This is a wide trail with a smooth fire road that starts on Big Springs and terminate at South Park Drive on the south and Wild Canyon Road on the north. The trail is moderate and relaxed and features a couple of rolling climbs as it makes its way along the ridge. On your way, you will be treated to spectacular sounds and sights of nature, including occasional sightings of eagles overhead and rabbits as they skitter under the bush. Also, be watchful of the occasional snakes that will be slithering past as they go about their business.

Quarry Trail

Address: 780 Wildcat Canyon Rd, Berkeley, CA

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

4. Stonewall-Panoramic Trail

Stonewall-Panoramic Trail is nestled within Claremont Canyon Regional Preserve, and it is a 1.3-mile (2.1 km) moderately difficult trail that delivers incredible exercise and views. On this trail, the more altitude you gain, the better the view of the bay becomes. On your way along the loop, expect to see spectacular sights of most of the Bay Area bridges, including the famous Golden Gate Bridge. For this hike, be sure to have your sunscreen and water bottle ready, and if you have a furry friend, don’t leave them behind because the park is dog-friendly.

Stonewall-Panoramic Trail

Address: 99 Stonewall Rd, Berkeley, CA

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

5. Lower Jordan Fire Trail

Lower Jordan Fire Trail is a well-maintained trail ideal for running, hiking, biking, and trekking. It begins in Southside, Berkeley, then heads over to Mathematical Science Research Institute through Lower Jordan, before heading back to Southside. The trail mainly comprises of easy to medium-level paths, and this makes it ideal for all kinds of hikers, including the younger ones. It is a pet-friendly terrain with incredible mountain surroundings, making it appealing for group treks or a simple adventure with your furry friend.

Lower Jordan Fire Trail

Address: 425 Lower Fire Trail, Berkeley, CA

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

6. The Big C

The Big C is a very popular trail among UC Berkeley students, given that it is usually the venue for the school’s traditional sprint. The trail is short, with a semi-steep terrain that should not take anyone with moderate-level fitness more than 15 minutes to complete. When you reach the summit—a big yellow C on top of a hill—you will enjoy an astonishing view of the Berkeley campus and Bay Area. You will also find a swing at the summit, where you can simply relax while enjoying the spectacular view of the region below.

The Big C

Address: Berkeley, CA

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

7. Indian Rock Park

If you loved climbing rocks in your childhood days, then going for a hike at Indian Rock Park will bring nostalgic memories of your youth. This may not be your typical hike—some sort of a rock-climbing adventure that will see you scale the carved rock steps to the summit. If you manage to reach the summit on a clear day, you will fall in love with the breathtaking views of both Golden Gate Bridge and Bay Bridge. The park also has picnic areas where you can wind down after the hike or simply relax while you soak in the killer Bay Area views.

Indian Rock Park

Address: 950 Indian Rock Ave, Berkeley, CA

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

8. Grizzly Peak

Of all the trekking and hiking trails in Berkeley, none beats the views at Grizzly Peak, especially during sunrise and sunset. It is one of the most popular trails and a darling to many locals and visitors who troop in to enjoy the beautiful views of Berkeley, San Francisco, and Oakland. It is a moderately difficult trail and also a tranquil and exceedingly relaxing one, especially when you make it to the top.

Grizzly Peak

Address: Alameda & Contra Costa Counties, CA

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

9. Garber Park

Garber Park is right behind Claremont Hotel. It is a hidden gem that not so many people who travel to Berkeley usually know about. It has about a mile-long (1.6 km) trail that is cool, green, and shaded since it traverses through wildflowers and trees. If you want a short hike in a less crowded part of Berkeley, or you need an ideal park for a romantic walk with your soulmate, this is one of the best places you will ever find in the city. Come here when you want a path that will lead you to a peaceful end of the day.

Garber Park

Address: Berkeley, CA

Opening hours: 6:30am - 8pm (daily)

Price: Free

Exercise and soak in the beautiful Berkeley sceneries

Hiking and trekking are powerful ways to get your body in shape. In a place like Berkeley, in addition to getting fit, you will also enjoy the fantastic views of the Bay Area. Consider the top hiking and trekking spots in Berkeley, California, discussed above for a memorable outdoor experience in the city.