Double Up on Diablo

{MARCH 20, 2024 NOTE: WITH RAIN AND STORMS AN ONGOING EVENT THIS YEAR, ALWAYS CHECK THE WEATHER FORECAST BEFORE GOING. DON'T DO THIS HIKE IN POOR WEATHER.}

Set the tone for 2024 with this twofer summit hike at Mount Diablo State Park. Embark on a 7-mile out-and-back up Mount Olympia and Diablo’s lesser-known summit, North Peak.

You’ll get a clear view of the two summits from the jump, starting from the Three Springs Staging Area and heading south on Three Springs Road.

After 0.4 mile, bear right onto Olympia Trail and ascend through a cool, shady forest. As the trees begin thinning, you can see the Diablo Mountain Range stretching north to south, and the snowcapped Sierra on the horizon.

At the intersection with East Trail, turn left to begin the final, steep stretch to the Mount Olympia summit. Beautiful, craggy rock formations make for a dramatic backdrop as you emerge on top of the 2,946-foot mountaintop.

Stellar views feature Livermore Valley, the sprawling wind farms, and the San Francisco Bay. A guest book is attached to the summit pole, so jot down a celebratory note before turning your sights to North Peak.

From the Mount Olympia summit, follow North Peak Trail as it descends into rockier terrain. Turn left onto North Peak Road, and watch your footing on the slippery gravel while climbing the final ascent to the summit at 3,557 feet. A staircase leads to the radio towers, where hikers can snap selfies with massive Mount Diablo in the background. On nice days the North Peak is a beautiful spot for a picnic.

Return the way you came.

The Three Springs Staging Area is located on Marsh Creek Rd. in Clayton. Map. Mount Diablo State Park is open from 8 a.m. to sunset. No dogs.

{MARCH 20, 2024 NOTE: WITH RAIN AND STORMS AN ONGOING EVENT THIS YEAR, ALWAYS CHECK THE WEATHER FORECAST BEFORE GOING. DON'T DO THIS HIKE IN POOR WEATHER.}

Story and photos by Heather Werner, @heath.er.wer.ner