How to Hike in East Bay Regional Parks
- 1). Choose a time of year to hike. Try hiking during the spring and summer months. These months feature sunny skies for the most part. Spring is especially recommended because this region of California receives abundant sunshine and mild temperatures then. Try to avoid hiking during the autumn or winter months. Many of the days during these months can have low visibility because of fog or rain.
- 2). The East Bay Regional Parks have very hilly terrain and can be strenuous for the first-time hiker. With that said, know your limits. Appropriate footwear is crucial to these trails. Don't wear dress shoes, skate shoes or any other footwear without an arched sole. A good pair of running shoes with appropriate arches is perfect for these hilly trails.
- 3). Visit the East Bay Regional Parks website to decide which park you want to hike. There are 65 regional parks in the East Bay with around 1,150 miles of hiking trails. (See Resources.)
- 4). Use the Internet to find driving directions to the park of your choice. Use websites such as Mapquest or GoogleMaps.
- 5). Drive to the regional park of your choice. Get a hiking map at the park's front office, which is located at the entrance of every regional park.
- 6). Hike the trail of your choice and use the map to guide you. Make sure you bring plenty of water, as it can get hot.
