The best MTB trails in Antioch Dunes National Wildlife Refuge

This barred tunnel was once a bustling entrance to the Star Mine, one of the most active coal mines in the area, providing a livelihood for many families. The rusted bars that now block the entrance are a stark reminder of the mine's past glory and the hard work that went into extracting coal from deep beneath the earth's surface.

Located in the Black Diamond Mines Regional Park, the Old Homestead Loop climbs a dirt road up the ridge. While hiking along the trail, you can watch grazing cows and once you reach the top, be prepared for picturesque views of the surrounding hills and lush greenery.

Contra Loma Reservoir is an 80-acre reservoir located in Contra Loma Regional Park that offers year-round fishing and summer swimming. Additionally, there are hiking and biking trails around the reservoir.

This barred tunnel was once a bustling entrance to the Star Mine, one of the most active coal mines in the area, providing a livelihood for many families. The rusted bars that now block the entrance are a stark reminder of the mine's past glory and the hard work that went into extracting coal from deep beneath the earth's surface.

This short loop trail provides a steady, periodically steep climb on a dirt road that is sometimes rough in places due to the stomping of the many grazing cows in the area, especially after wet weather. There are fantastic views from the ridge top and a quick descent back to the start. This trail is connected to several others in the park, making it perfect as an add-on for an extended ride.

This steep portion of the trail provides a few switchbacks to ease the grade before reaching the Ridge Trail. There is a rest bench at the junction which is an ideal place to stop and catch your breath while you and take in the views of the incredible scenery.

The Stewartville Trail starts just south of the parking lot and runs through the preserve from east to west, linking the former Somersville and Stewartville mining towns. The route gradually climbs through a small, beautiful valley and can be ridden in either direction, but clockwise is recommended for the best ride. The trail offers excellent views in all directions, with Rose Hill Cemetery visible in the distance while looking west, Sand Creek Valley to the east, and Mount Diablo to the south.

This preserve is a treasure trove of history, home to the remnants of three mining towns, including former coal and sand mines. The park features include an underground visitor center, guided tours of a former sand mine, and 60 miles (97 km) of trails to explore that crisscross the rolling foothill terrain. The trails offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, which is a mix of grassland, California oak woodland, California mixed evergreen forest, and chaparral, making it a nature lover's paradise.