The best city hikes and walks in Mulholland Open Space Preserve
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Urban hiking trails in Mulholland Open Space Preserve offer a diverse landscape characterized by golden grasslands, oak woodlands, and chaparral. The preserve spans 250 acres, providing expansive views of the Moraga Valley, Diablo Hills, and surrounding East Bay hills. Its terrain includes both paved and unpaved paths, catering to various preferences for exploring the natural environment. This area is known for its scenic viewpoints and natural features, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Best urban hiking trails in Mulholland Open Space Preserve
- The most popular urban hiking route is Bridgeview and Old CaΓ±on Trail Loop, a 2.9 miles (4.7 km) trail that takes 1 hour 20 minutes to complete. This route features varied terrain with gentle elevation changes.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Dracena Park Loop, an easy 0.6 miles (0.9 km) path. This short loop offers a quick immersion into the preserve's natural setting.
- Local hikers also love the Walden Park loop from Walnut Creek, a 2.4 miles (3.9 km) trail leading through parkland and urban green spaces, often completed in about 1 hour.
- Hiking in Mulholland Open Space Preserve is defined by grasslands, oak woodlands, and scenic viewpoints, offering a mix of paved and unpaved paths. The network provides options for different ability levels, from short, easy loops to longer, more challenging routes.
- The routes in Mulholland Open Space Preserve are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 230 reviews. More than 3,800 hikers have used komoot to explore Mulholland Open Space Preserve's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
3
hikers
4.69km
01:20
110m
110m
Embark on the Bridgeview and Old CaΓ±on Trail Loop for an easy hike through varied landscapes in Oakland. This route spans 2.9 miles (4.7 km) and involves a gentle elevation gain of 360 feet (110 metres), making it a perfect choice for a refreshing outdoor experience. You can expect to complete this loop in about 1 hour and 20 minutes, enjoying lush creek views and towering redwoods along the way, with a picturesque cement bridge offering great views over the creek.
When planning your visit, be aware that while the overall difficulty is easy, certain sections can be narrow, hilly, and include uneven steps and cliff sides. Specifically, access from the Monterey Boulevard side is not ideal for small children or strollers due to these challenging parts. Parking is generally available near the trailheads, but it is always a good idea to check local signs for current regulations.
As you explore the trail, keep an eye out for unique details that add a fun element to your journey. You might discover whimsical art, such as wooden 'trolls,' and even hidden rope swings along the path. These features, combined with the diverse terrain that ranges from wide and flat to narrow and hilly, make the Bridgeview and Old CaΓ±on Trail Loop a distinctive and engaging option within Dimond Canyon Park.
9
hikers
7.26km
02:03
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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5
hikers
3.43km
00:56
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5
hikers
5.95km
01:42
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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hikers
913m
00:15
20m
20m
Explore the Dracena Park Loop, an easy hiking route that offers a quick outdoor escape. This short trail covers 0.6 miles (0.9 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 65 feet (20 metres), making it perfect for a 15-minute stroll. You will wind through lush greenery, passing beautiful flowers and foliage, and enjoy the natural shade provided by a notable stand of redwood trees.
Planning your visit to Dracena Park is straightforward, as parking is generally available for easy access. The park provides amenities like restrooms and picnic sites, making it convenient for families. It is also very family-friendly, featuring a playground, and welcomes pet owners with designated dog-friendly areas and an off-leash trail.
The unique terrain of Dracena Park Loop tells a story of its past as a rock quarry, with excavated hillsides adding character to the landscape. Beyond the redwoods, open grassy fields offer pleasant spots for a short break or a picnic. This route stands out for its blend of natural beauty and historical geology within a compact urban park setting.
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Tips from the Community
The trailhead immediately drops down a semi-steep path to a creek crossing at the bottom. Crossing the creek can get harder (impossible) if the water level is high.
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A relatively well maintained trail, especially popular with locals walking dogs. Take care for stray golf balls coming from the driving range below, I've had a few near misses. The Bridgeview Trail is the best way to link Dimond Canyon to Palos Colorados trail (Joaquin Miller Park) and up into the Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park trail system
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The Old CaΓ±on Trail runs along the floor of the canyon, and can easily be turned into a loop along Sausal Creek. Pay attention to signs about the water quality β you shouldn't drink here, and may not want to let your dogs bathe here either.
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The Bridgeview Trail offers overlooks of Dimond Canyon, but its real charm is the whimsical art scattered along its length. At the south (Bridgeview Drive) end of the trail, there is a map that tells you more about the art along the trail.
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The trail along Sausal Creek crosses to the other side of the Canyon and crosses underneath the Leimert Boulevard bridge. A sign at the trailhead warns that the trail under the bridge is closed, but it is open, just protected with scaffolds from potentially falling plaster pieces
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Northern entrance into the steep canyon begins with several sets of steps descending down to the creek and back up again on the other side
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The park stretches from this lower flat level all the way up the steep slope to Hwy 13 where it connects with Joaquin Miller Park. In this lower area large grassy meadows, playgrounds, restrooms, drinking water fountains, and an outdoor swimming pool fill the width of the park. Higher up the trail becomes narrow and alternates twice between the east and west bank of Sausal Creek.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of views can I expect on urban hikes in Mulholland Open Space Preserve?
Mulholland Open Space Preserve is celebrated for its panoramic vistas. You can expect stunning views of the picturesque Moraga Valley, the majestic Diablo Hills, including Mount Diablo, and the surrounding East Bay hills. The golden, cattle-grazed grasslands, dotted with oak and coyote bush chaparral, provide a beautiful backdrop, especially vibrant with autumn hues or spring wildflowers.
Are there any easy urban hiking trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, the preserve offers several easy urban hiking options. For instance, the Bridgeview and Old CaΓ±on Trail Loop is an easy 4.7 km route. Another family-friendly choice is the short Dracena Park Loop, which is less than 1 km. The Walden Park loop from Walnut Creek and the Iron Horse Trail β Iron Horse Trail bridge loop from Walnut Creek are also easy, shorter options.
Can I bring my dog on the urban hiking trails in Mulholland Open Space Preserve?
Yes, Mulholland Open Space Preserve is generally dog-friendly. Many trails, including the main Mulholland Ridge Trail, welcome dogs, though they should typically be kept on a leash. Always check specific trail signage for any restrictions.
Are there any circular urban hiking routes available?
Yes, several urban hiking routes in the area are circular. You can enjoy the Bridgeview and Old CaΓ±on Trail Loop, the Dracena Park Loop, the Walden Park loop from Walnut Creek, and the Iron Horse Trail β Iron Horse Trail bridge loop from Walnut Creek, all of which are designed as loops.
What are the parking options for accessing the urban hiking trails?
You can access the preserve from the Hacienda de las Flores parking lot in Moraga. Follow signs for the Cindy Waxman Trail from there. Another access point is directly from Donald Drive. Restrooms are available at the neighboring Hacienda de las Flores Park during its operating hours.
What is the best time of year to go urban hiking in Mulholland Open Space Preserve?
The preserve is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly rewarding. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers, while autumn offers rich hues in the landscape. The golden, cattle-grazed grasslands are scenic in any season. The preserve is open daily from one hour before sunrise until one hour after sunset.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see while hiking?
Mulholland Open Space Preserve is a haven for wildlife, especially for birdwatching, with over 77 species identified. You can frequently spot white-tailed kites, red-tailed hawks, and American kestrels soaring overhead. The presence of grazing cattle on one side of the preserve also adds to its pastoral charm.
Are there any challenging urban hiking routes for experienced hikers?
While many trails are easy, the Iron Horse Regional Trail offers a more challenging experience. This route is over 53 km long and is rated as difficult, providing a significant endurance test for experienced hikers.
What do other hikers enjoy most about urban hiking in Mulholland Open Space Preserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from 237 ratings. Reviewers often praise the expansive panoramic views, the serene environment, and the diverse trails that cater to various skill levels.
Are there amenities like restrooms or water available along the trails?
Amenities such as trash cans and running water are available near the water tower within the preserve. Additionally, restrooms can be found at the neighboring Hacienda de las Flores Park during its operating hours.
Do the urban trails connect to other hiking networks?
Yes, the preserve's trails offer connectivity. The Mulholland Ridge Trail connects to Hacienda de las Flores Park in Moraga and also links into the broader Orinda trail network, providing options for longer excursions and varied routes.
Most popular routes in Mulholland Open Space Preserve
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