Sycamore Valley Park Playground and Pergola

The Shady Slope, Short Ridge and Sand Hill Trail Loop offers a delightful mix of wooded canyons and open rolling hills, making it a local favorite in Danville. You'll start on a wide singletrack that climbs through shaded oak trees, then emerge onto exposed grasslands with expansive views of Mount Diablo National Park and the surrounding residential areas. Keep an eye out for cattle grazing in the distance and a creek that might feature a small waterfall after recent rains.

This easy hiking loop covers 2.4 miles (3.9 km) with a manageable 412 feet (126 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 1 hour and 11 minutes. The trail is well-marked and maintained within the Sycamore Valley Open Space Preserve, making it accessible for various hiking abilities. Parking is available at the preserve, and it's a popular spot for dog owners due to designated off-leash areas.

What sets this trail apart is its location within the 684.5-acre Sycamore Valley Open Space Preserve, a significant natural space in the East Bay Hills. The presence of a year-round herd of cattle on the Short Ridge side adds a unique pastoral element, requiring hikers to close gates behind them. It's a great option for a relatively quick outing that still delivers diverse scenery and a true sense of being out in nature.

The Hiking loop from Sycamore Valley Open Space Regional Preserve offers a delightful escape into Danville's rolling hills, characterized by a mix of open grasslands and serene oak woodlands. You'll traverse varied terrain, from gentle slopes to steeper sections, all while enjoying expansive views of the surrounding landscape and distant Mount Diablo. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and the year-round cattle herd that adds to the rural charm of the Short Ridge area.

This moderate 5.4-mile (8.7 km) hiking loop, with its 757 feet (231 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 31 minutes to complete. The preserve is open year-round, benefiting from Danville's mild climate, making it a reliable option for any season. Parking is available at the trailhead, and it's always wise to carry enough water, especially on warmer days.

One of the standout features of this preserve is its dog-friendly policy, allowing off-leash dogs under voice control in undeveloped areas, which is a huge plus for pet owners. The diverse trail network, including options like Shady Slope and Short Ridge, caters to different preferences, ensuring there's always something new to explore within this scenic open space.