Short Hike, Sweet View!

Hike to Big Views at Claremont Canyon in the East Bay

Woman and her dog looking out to view of the Bay at Claremont Canyon Preserve in the East Bay

Steady as you go ... all the way up to a sweeping Bay vista at Claremont Canyon Regional Preserve. This 208-acre haven has a 4.3-mile loop hike to one of the best views in the East Bay. Begin your hike on the aptly named Stonewall Panoramic Trail, which rises quickly out of the eucalyptus forest to ridgeline chaparral.

Hike Claremont Canyon Regional Preserve

As you approach Panoramic Way, soak in the birds-eye view of the bay and UC Berkeley’s campus below. At Panoramic Way, take a right and link up with the East-West Trail, which takes you deeper into the canyon. After a slight descent through a wooded section, take a left onto the connector trail that drops quickly to the Upper Jordan Fire Trail.

Woman walking her dog through a forest at Claremont Canyon in the East Bay

This section of the trail offers a glimpse of the back side of Claremont Canyon. After about 1.5 miles take a left onto Panoramic Way and follow the quiet street through woodlands. At the T-intersection, take a right and then a left to access the Clark Kerr Trail (marked by a few dog water dishes). The hillside should soon be blooming with California poppies.

Woman sitting on a bench with her dog overlooking a view of the San Francisco Bay

At the peak, you're rewarded with uninterrupted vistas of the Bay and San Francisco's skyline. Take it all in at the bench, then take a left and continue into the woods and over a small footbridge; this trail leads back to your final descent on Stonewall Panoramic Trail.

Limited parking can be found on Stonewall Rd. off Claremont Ave. Because much of the climbing section is exposed, this hike is best for cooler days. No water or restrooms are available. Dog-friendly!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Muir Woods Night Tour

    Thousands of people flock to Muir Woods every year, yet only a few see it at night, when this beloved park is experienced in a whole new light. The Muir Woods Night Tour happens on the last Friday of every month through October.

    View
  2. Slide Ranch Marin

    Slide On Over

    Marin's Slide Ranch has a popular neighbor in the Muir Beach Overlook. But don’t overlook Slide! This open-to-the-public nonprofit organization sits on 134 acres of coastline and is filled with animals, Pacific scenery, and an adjacent hiking trail.

    View
  3. Sponsored

    Take the Exit to the Best of the San Francisco Peninsula

    The San Francisco Peninsula is proof that some of Northern California’s greatest surprises are hiding just off Highway 101. All you have to do is take the exit.

    View
  4. Hello, Sur!

    Big Sur is home to numerous fantastic beaches and coves, so which one do you choose? Go for the beach that's quintessential Big Sur (and dog-friendly!). Pfeiffer Beach in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Its signature lilac-colored sand is waiting for your feet!

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Waterfall Hunter

    If you ask a local in Reno about one of the best hiking trails in town, odds are high they’ll point you to Hunter Creek Falls. It’s a year-round favorite, but it absolutely shines in spring, when desert peach wildflowers make a splash—and so does the marquee waterfall.

    View
  2. Wapama Wows

    Hetch Hetchy can be overlooked in Yosemite National Park because of its more remote location and limited facilities. But this is where you’ll also find one of the best day hikes in the park: Wapama Falls.

    View
  3. Bike the Coastal Trail to Pillar Point Harbor in Half Moon Bay

    Ride and Seek

    Oceanside breezes, beautiful beaches, a car-free pathway for biking, and beer at the end: You’re on a roll! The San Mateo Coast was made for beach hopping and beer tasting … and it all goes down smooth as part of an 8-mile out-and-back bike ride.

    View
  4. Tamtastic Sunset

    Sure, the East Peak of Mount Tam is absolutely spectacular at sunset, but some magic-hour enthusiasts are onto a fresh perspective in getting a little more personal space for their panoramic viewings.

    View