Some of the best hiking in the East Bay, this combination of trails around Mount Diablo offers a variety of challenging ascents and amazing views of the surrounding mountains.
The Mount Diablo Waterfall Loop trail in Mount Diablo State Park is typically about 8 miles. This particular review is for the majority of the standard loop trail, but also with some offshoot trails since you can mix and match many trails in the area. This hike is considered moderate due to the mountain ascents and occasional creek crossings that require balance and low water levels. You’ll also gain over 1,300+ feet of elevation gain, so the ups and downs can be tough. We did this hike in 2.5 hours with lots of quick stops for pictures. Dogs cannot hike this state park trail.
Details:
Directions (Google Maps): To get to the Mount Diablo Waterfall Loop Trail, search for the Mount Diablo Waterfall Loop Trail Condor in Diablo State Park in California, or click here.
Directions (old school maps): From San Francisco or Oakland, you’ll want to get to the junction of 680 and 24. Take Ygnacio Valley Road for a few miles. Turn right on Pine Hollow, then right on Mitchell Canyon Road. The road will end at the Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center where you’ll pay for parking.
Driving Info: This is an easy drive that can get some traffic. Keep in mind the parking lots will fill up, and there’s always plenty of cyclists on the road so keep an eye out.
Time & Weather: We did this hike at the end of February when there was snow on the upper half of the tallest mountains. It was a brisk 40 degrees with on and off rain but it was beautiful hiking weather. This hike will get extreme heat in the warmer months.
Gear: Due to the creek crossings and various ascents, it’s advised to wear sturdy boots with good traction. Also bring hiking poles for extra stability.
Trail Navigation: This trail is easy to follow, although there are a few junctions so bringing an offline map will be useful. Most of the trails in the park are connected to one another so it can be confusing, but it also allows for the freedom to extend your hike in a variety of ways.
Water & Food: Especially outside of winter months, bring plenty of water since this park gets extreme heat. Bring some snacks as well, since there are a variety of viewpoints to enjoy. There is a visitor center with amenities and snacks in the park.
Trailhead Info: There are a few large parking lots at this trailhead but it’s used for a variety of hikes and activities. It gets very crowded on the weekends.
Pictures of the Mount Diablo Waterfall Loop Trail:
From the parking lot you’ll ascend quite quickly, but then it’ll flatten out along the side of the mountain providing stunning views.
Open meadows with the curving trail.
This day was muddy and made the hike a bit challenging.
Rolling hills below the mountains, littered in sprawling oak trees.
The mighty mountaintop above, dusted in snow from the recent winter storms.
Looking back away from the mountain provides panoramic views of the beautiful valleys below.
The trail will cut in between the mountains as you continue to ascend.
One of the numerous falls on this trail. This one allows you to get up close and personal.
There are additional miles and waterfalls on this loop but due to weather we turned back early using a connecting trail. Although disappointing to cut it short, the remainder of the trail was spectacular.
At this time of year there are plenty of shades of green in the mountains.
Rather than backtrack the entire way, we split off at the Bruce Lee trail/road for expansive views on the way back.
On this extended path back to the parking lot you’ll also cross this watering hole. Muddy now due to the recent rains.
Keep your eyes and ears peeled all along this trail, especially closer to the trailhead. There are tons of hikers and cyclists.
