Short Secret

Some secrets you keep to yourself; others are worth sharing. It might be no secret that Mount Diablo offers some of the best views in the state, but the trails weaving around it? With so many choices it's hard to know where to begin. This short and sweet hike is just under 3 miles (round-trip) and goes down before coming back up. Along the way you'll traverse lightly used trails like Ridge View and Secret Trail, where chances are you won't see a soul. The views amaze quickly, with far-reaching western vistas greeting you part way up Diablo's flank. Hike in the morning and you might be treated to a mystical blanket of fog down below. The first of your secret trails is Ridge View, where a quick ascent leads to towering views of Rock City's sandstone sculptures. The steepest part of the trail comes up quickly. The good news: it's downhill. But: this descent is serious (wear good shoes). It leads to Wall Point Road, where you'll enter a world of green lush forests of live oak, madrone, and buckeye trees. Within 0.5 mile you'll reach the actual Secret Trail. You're still in the forest, crossing streams, and then making your way back uphill. That's the short and sweet of it: don't worry, you can share this secret!

Park on South Gate Rd., just south of the junction with North Gate Rd. You'll see a small paved road leading to BBQ Terrace group camp; just south of that on the eastern side of the road is a pullout. Park here. Walk up to the Summit Trail, and turn right heading downhill. Cross the road and start Ridge View Trail. This T's into Wall Point Rd., where you turn right. Go half a mile and turn right on Secret Trail. This connects to BBQ Terrace Rd., where you turn right and go uphill back to your car. No dogs.