New Brushy Peak Loop

Overview: Opened in 2008, this is the premier hike in Brushy Peak Regional Preserve. The park's namesake peak is a local landmark for pilots, as it's brush-covered heights stands out in stark contrast with the area's grassy peaks. After the modest climb, you'll stroll through the oaks on the peak once used by Charles Lindbergh himself on his Bay Area flights. Beautiful spring-time views of the Livermore valley and Altamonte windmill farms invite the hiker to linger just a little longer, watching the clouds. A foggy mid-winters day brings those clouds dancing and darting through the hills.

This is a great hike for dogs, and can make for a special day with the whole family.

Tips: In the summer, Brushy Peak can be a hot and dry place, so be sure to bring plenty of water. The trail is well kept, but the trail near the peak has some brush alongside the trail, and more than once a quick turn of the trail around a boulder can bring a surprised snake in view. Cattle do graze the hills, but give them plenty of room and they'll do little but watch you walk by. Little ones can be challenged by the climb, so be sure they're ready.