Who knew we had a 10 million year old volcano just chillin' (literally) on the other side of the bay. Don't expect any crazy lava trails - it's too old for that. But still interesting, an easy 3-mile walk, and some killer views - like this one we found off of Grizzly Peak Road:
View from Grizzly Peak Blvd. This is actually the wrong way (we went right instead of left at first)
To get to the trail - exit Highway 24 and take the Fish Ranch Road exit. Almost a mile afterwards, turn left on Grizzly Peak Blvd (note that all the signs say to go right - ignore them!). This will take you to Skyline Blvd., where you take another left and then park in the entrance right after on the left side. You'll find restrooms and free maps here...as well as the trail head.
We made it! Well...almost there. Guest hiker Meghan handles the self-we.
From here, go to your right when facing the restrooms - you might want to grab one of those
free maps to help you find your way (and teach you a bit about the history of this area). Follow the numbers to learn about the geology of the hills you'll be trekking.
You'll see some basalt rock - which turns red due to oxidation of the iron minerals. There was a lot of rock education in that pamphlet...I'd rather learn about how many people volcano kill every year. Or how many virgins have been sacrificed in them. (Please bubble that up to the Parks department)
Basalt Rock (not bath salts...you can't snort these...that I know of)
One of the area's highest peaks is Round Top - made up of lava and volcanic debris from the ancient volcano. Over the past 10 million years, massive earthquakes uplifted the hills and tilted the volcano on its side. So don't worry - you're safe...when is the last time you've seen a volcano explode sideways?! Go forth and hike away! At the end of the numbered sights from the volcanic rock walk - you're rewarded with some beautiful rolling hill views:
Wear legit hiking shoes if you go after rains - it gets muddy. There are also a few places with park benches, if you also end up packing a snack and some wine. Next time, Sibley. Sober January wouldn't let me have a boozy hike this month.
For more information and maps, please find:
Link to East Bay Parks website
