Hiking to nature viewing: 13 outdoor activities in Tri-Valley, California

2023-04-18

Nestled within California’s Mount Diablo region, Tri-Valley encompasses three picturesque valleys just 30 miles east of San Francisco. Comprising four unique cities – Pleasanton, Livermore, Dublin, and Danville – each with its character and heritage, Tri-Valley offers a captivating blend of rich history and distinctive charm. This Northern California region is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering diverse activities like hiking, biking, swimming, rock climbing, and more amid its stunning landscapes.

1. Hiking

Whether you are looking for a stroll or a challenging ascent, Tri-Valley boasts a variety of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. As one of the highest peaks in the Bay Area, Mount Diablo State Park remains a popular destination for hikers, bikers, and sightseers. Other popular hiking trails in Las Trampas Regional Wilderness offer stunning peak views and spring wildflowers, while Del Valle Regional Park provides diverse trails with scenic lake views and wildlife sightings.

3. Swimming

Take a refreshing dip in one of Tri-Valley’s various swimming holes. Whether you prefer remote reservoirs, community splash pads, or bustling waterparks, you will find ample opportunities to cool off. Located within Del Valle Regional Park, the picturesque Lake Del ValleLakeoffers a perfect setting for swimming and water activities.

4. Rock Climbing

See Tri-Valley from a different perspective while scaling heights at Mount Diablo State Park.Rock climbers of all skill levels are welcome to explore the variety of rock formations and climbing routes housed in this California State Park. Rock City, located within Mount Diablo State Park, is home to the Boy Scout Rocks, a popular climbing site with over 12 routes.

5. Golfing

The Course at Wente Vineyards, known for its three distinct topographies, is a picturesque 7,181-yard, par-72 golf course tucked away in the scenic Livermore Valley Wine Country. Located in Pleasanton, Callippe Preserve Golf Course blends challenging holes with stunning natural surroundings, making it a favourite destination for golf enthusiasts.

6. Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is a popular outdoor activity in Tri-Valley, calling back to its longstanding history when farming, ranching, and cowboy communities flourished in this region. Explore Del Valle Regional Park and Mount Diablo State Park for equestrian adventures.

7. Star Gazing

With virtually zero light pollution for up to 100 miles south of Del Valle Regional Park, visitors can spot star clusters, nebulae, and, based on the time of the year, even Jupiter!

8. Fishing

World-class anglers and amateur fishers will find plenty of opportunities to cast their lines in Tri-Valley. Los Vaqueros Reservoir, situated on the outskirts of Livermore, is known as one of the best fishing venues in the area.

9. Camping

Whether you are looking for a rustic, remote experience, a group or equestrian camp, or a place with modern, “glamping” amenities, there are plenty of campsites to choose from. Mount Diablo State Park is a popular spot for campers, featuring panoramic views of the entire Bay Area with three family campgrounds as well as five group campgrounds.

10. Picnicking

Tri-Valley offers a plethora of picnic spots for family outings, romantic dates, or group gatherings. Emerald Glen Park, centrally situated and well-equipped with spacious lawns, sports fields, playgrounds, and an aquatic park, boasts five picnic sites accommodating 24-200 guests. For wine enthusiasts, Retzlaff Vineyards, the only California-certified organic vineyard in the San Francisco Bay Area, offers award-winning wines and a shaded lawn, ideal for picnics with loved ones.

11. Stand Up Paddle Boarding

The calm conditions atLake Del Vallemake it the perfect place to try your hand at a variety of water activities like stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing and more. If you do not own gear, rent a stand-up paddle board, kayak, or windsurf from the rental stand on the swimming beach closest to the marina.

12. Nature Viewing

From tranquil parks to expansive open spaces, Tri-Valley is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Sycamore Grove Parkis home to a variety of wildlife, such as frogs, pond turtles, dragonflies, ducks or even muskrats. Del Valle Regional Park features a 5-mile lake teeming with wildlife andwildflowers.

13. Boating

Luckily for all the skippers out there, boating in Tri-Valley is easy and accessible. Launch any size boat atLake Del Valleor select from a variety of rental vessels at the marina. Pick from the fleet of paddle boats, motorboats, and pontoons. Boat rentals are first come, first serve, and they go quickly, so make sure to get to the marina early to secure your spot!

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