A Very Muiry Holiday Hike

Hike the East Bay's New Open Space Preserve Carr Ranch

We know the North Pole is currently all the rage with elves preparing gifts, but here in NorCal there’s something exciting afoot, too. We’ve got some new hiking open space! Thank the John Muir Land Trust, the East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD), and donors for successfully completing their campaign to save Moraga’s Carr Ranch. Owned for over 100 years by the Carr family, the 604-acre ranch harbors unique ecosystems for plant and animal life and gives hikers gorgeous views of the East Bay within its seemingly endless rolling green hills.

Carr Ranch is not only beautiful, it’s essential—the creeks on the ranch drain into the Upper San Leandro Reservoir, which provides drinking water for the East Bay. See the bounty of this land on an 8.5-mile (round-trip) hike that starts at Moraga’s Laguna Park. Take EBMUD’s Rocky Ridge Trail for about 2.5 miles through oak trees and along a small creek. You’ll reach the Carr Ranch Loop Trail and follow signposts counter-clockwise, which allows easier climbs and more time facing the views!

The 3.5-mile Carr Ranch Loop has some relatively steep ups and downs, but the rewards are views of the ranch hills and all the way to the bay from the highest points. After completing the loop, follow the Rocky Ridge Trail back down. Hallelujah!

From Moraga, drive south on Canyon Rd. and turn left on Camino Pablo. Take Camino Pablo about 1.7 miles to Rancho Laguna Park. The EBMUD trailhead is at the fence behind and to the left of the play area. Follow the signs for Rocky Ridge Trail and Carr Ranch Loop Trail. EBMUD trail permit required (just $10 per year) and EBMUD rules apply. Bring water and snacks because this hike takes about four hours. No biking. Dog-friendly!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Sponsored

    The 2025 Hiking Calendar Is Here!

    Ready to make hiking part of your New Year’s wellness plan? Get the all-new 2025 Hiking Calendar courtesy of Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST).

    View
  2. Two hikers at Bear Creek Redwoods Regional Preserve on a new trail.

    New Trails at Bear Creek

    Looking for new trails? Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve has added 170 acres of forest, grassland, and historical sites. Hike this 3.5-mile loop through the new addition.

    View
  3. Woman swimming in Carson Hotsprings natural thermal pool

    Hot Springs, Naturally

    Thermal spring waters are famous for their curative, relaxing elements, and Reno Tahoe is filled with them! Sink into these amazing thermal respites for a wellness super soak.

    View
  4. Drake Awakening

    Part salt water, part fresh water, Drake’s Estero is smack in the middle of Point Reyes, and one of only two marine wilderness areas in the entire nation. Yeah, it’s worth a look. Get the extended version by hiking right alongside it.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Weekend Sherpa Podcast
    Sponsored

    Weekend Sherpa Podcast: Take it Outside

    Adventure for your earbuds. What's new in the world of the outdoors? Listen to Weekend Sherpa co-founders discuss local hikes, beaches, bike rides, camping spots and all kinds of travel and adventure in California and beyond!

    View
  2. Boardwalking Bliss

    The Stanfield Preserve Boardwalk Trail traverses 1.6 miles of beautiful Big Bear Lake, giving you a chance to get up close to the lake without needing a boat. You’ll also enjoy some peaceful wildlife watching.

    View
  3. Get Into The Grove

    The 1.8-mile Oak Grove Park Loop trail in La Cañada is short, easy, and close to the city; meaning it’s a perfect destination for a quick holiday hike.

    View
  4. Woman hiking down the stairs to Coast Royale Beach in Orange County

    Secluded Royale

    Panoramic coastal views and a killer leg workout combine on this 2.7-mile (round-trip) out-and-back hike to secluded Coast Royale Beach in Orange County

    View