Briones Regional Park Loop via Bear Creek Trailhead

Route Description for Briones Regional Park Loop via Bear Creek Trailhead

Enjoy a more tranquil experience when exploring the Briones Regional Park Loop via Bear Creek Trailhead. Compared to the nearby Mount Diablo State Park, this area boasts equally as beautiful scenery whilst providing more solitude. The exposed terrain along this hike offers wonderful views of the nearby valleys and foothills, though it also warrants extreme conditions. When hiking in the summer season, head out in the early morning to avoid the afternoon heat and pack plenty of water. Additionally, though the park welcomes dogs, most areas require them to be leashed—please respect the signs.

The Briones Regional Park Loop via Bear Creek Trailhead gives visitors a taste of the best trails within the park. Explore the lush hills adorned with Coast Live Oak and grazing cattle. Though this route can be explored year-round, we encourage hikers to head out in the springs when the lush green hillsides are painted with shades of purple, red, and yellow by the blossoming lupines, California poppies, and buttercups. Not to mention this route offers exceptional views of the Sacramento River Delta, Mount Diablo, and the Bay Area. Locals and visitors alike should take a trip to the Briones Regional Park—you won’t regret it. Note there is a $3USD parking fee when an attendant mans the booth.

Your journey along the Briones Regional Park Loop via Bear Creek Trailhead begins from the Bear Creek Staging Area. Setting out from the Bear Creek Trailhead, the route travels northeast along Briones Road to the trailhead. Grab a map here, then keep left, traveling along the Old Briones Road Trail. Though this path isn’t terribly difficult, it does demand some climbing, so you're in for a leg burner! At the following junction, merge onto the Black Oak Trail, intersecting with a seasonal creek. As you ascend the lush hillside, you will notice Mott Peak looming above.

At the route’s end, turn right onto the Mott Peak Trail, which travels along the northern slope of the summit, revealing views of the Sacramento Delta in the northeast and the Bay Area in the northwest. Take a break here, rest and rehydrate, then continue along the ridge, merging onto the Briones Crest Trail at the next intersection. This route will guide you amongst the Sindicich Lagoons, wandering southeast to Briones Peak. On a clear day, you will be granted distant views of Mount Diablo in the southeast from this point.

When you are set to continue your adventure, track the Table Top Trail, which will reroute you southwardly. Admire the scene of the surrounding verdant foothills and in the spring, the vibrant wildflowers. As you climb down the ridge, you will ultimately reconnect with the Briones Crest Trail—keep an eye out for cattle! At the next juncture, keep right, and you will be diverted onto the Seaborg Trail into Homestead Valley—which provides some shade as you wander beneath Coast Live Oak. The Seaborg Trail will eventually deliver you back to the trailhead, where you will retrace your steps down the Briones Road to your vehicle—completing the circuit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are dogs allowed in Briones Regional Park?

Yes, dogs are welcome in the Briones Regional Park. Note that there are both on-leash and off-leash areas within the park.

Do you have to pay to hike in the Briones Regional Park?

Yes, there is a $3USD charge per vehicle when an attendant is present and a $2USD fee per dog. Refer to the Briones Regional Park website for additional information.

Are bikes permitted in Briones Regional Park?

Yes, many trails within the Briones Regional Park are bike-friendly. Check out the Briones Regional Park website for restrictions and more info.

Insider Hints for Briones Regional Park Loop via Bear Creek Trailhead

• Bring plenty of water for you and your pup to prevent dehydration
• Wear SPF and sun protection
• Do not bother or approach the grazing cattle
• Be mindful of wildlife
• Pack snacks to stay fueled
• After rain the terrain is muddy and slippery so mind your footing