I typed this address in my GPS, and name of trail, neither popped up. Used google maps app with the address provided on Unilocal,and it led me to a main road covered above in trees. Kept going till I saw a trailhead parking lot with bathroom, not far from where the app said the location was, less than .5 mile. So, not sure if where I ended up is where everyone else is talking about, but the address led us to a cool, short, mild level loop to hike that was perfect me at 9 months pregnant and my 3.5 year old son. Most of the trail was shaded by trees. There were several off the beaten path trails you can explore. Lots of birds and different flora. I loved the moss covered stairwell that led to a hidden trail. See pics. I didn’t come across water(drought season now anywho) but perhaps if I took a different path, and not the loop? Go to it! Great little loop walk that took an hour with us being leisurely and exploring 1 side trail.
Ron L.
Place rating: 4 Concord, CA
The cliché«off the beaten path» applies to the Upper San Leandro Reservoir Watershed. Man, does it apply. The trailheads to this land are far away from any arterial of at least medium use. And, once you get here, the signs are clear that you must not be past this fence without a permit! But it’s not as exclusive as Palo Alto’s Foothills Park, it’s $ 10/year or $ 20⁄3 years. But let’s say you have that permit, and you start your walk. You find yourself in a forest that’s quite typical of the Oakland Hills. The fire roads aren’t that hard, but I found myself on a very steep one near a Moraga neighborhood. But because of the remoteness of this reservoir and the requirement of a permit, you run into few people. And if you treasure your alone time and would rather not be bugged, this is enough reason to go to the Upper San Leandro Reservoir. I actually went on a guided group hike. It was foggy at first, but the fog was gone by 10:30. We saw meadows, newts, eagles, a vernal pond, a quite unofficial swing about which EBMUD is looking the other way, and lots of pretty views. Even with the lake being at drought level, it’s still gorgeous. And it’s easy to make your own picnic spot. So that does it, I need to get that permit.
Michael D.
Place rating: 5 Walnut Creek, CA
The annual permit to hike in this most secluded and most beautiful ferns-studied, Redwood and Bay Laurel Trall system is well worth it — even if you only hike here once a year. I’m now on my way toward the reservoir and it’s fairly long ascent up from Canyon Road on the Moraga border. This is a great Mid-Summer hike as it’s all shaded, at least this first section hiking up toward the peak.
Maury B.
Place rating: 4 Oakland, CA
nice hidden spot for a lengthy trail run(start @ valle vista) — might want to run early/late to keep out of the sun. definitely on the quiet side! an out/back can be 20 miles if you arent careful!
D G.
Place rating: 4 Richmond, CA
Upper San Leandro Reservoir area, also known to East Bay Municipal Utility District(EBMUD) as the East Bay South Watershed. Permit needed from EBMUD to enter. Purchase permit by calling(925) 254‑3778 or(510) 287‑0459, or online at Park at Valle Vista Staging Area, 1993 Canyon Rd Moraga, CA94556. Take the King Canyon Trail loop. Great views of the reservoir. GPS tracks of the hike on 9÷21÷08−
