Heather Farm & Lake – Ygnacio Canal Trailhead loop from De La Salle High School
Heather Farm & Lake – Ygnacio Canal Trailhead loop from De La Salle High School
3.1
(22)
23
riders
Heather Farm & Lake – Ygnacio Canal Trailhead loop from De La Salle High School
02:04
28.4km
340m
Gravel riding
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 26, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
4.09 km
Heather Farm & Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
4.44 km
Heather Farm Park
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
5.69 km
Ygnacio Canal Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
9.17 km
Shell Ridge Open Space
Nature Reserve
11.6 km
Briones to Mount Diablo Regional Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
17.2 km
Pine Pond
Lake
18.9 km
Sandstone caves in Castle Rock formations
Highlight • Cave
Slightly acidic rainwater seeps into the sandstone during winter rains and dissolves some of the calcite. Warm and dry days cause …
Tip by
18.9 km
Mammoth Rock
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
23.8 km
Ygnacio Canal Trail at Pine Creek
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
27.2 km
Contra Costa Canal / Ygnacio Canal Trail junction
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
28.4 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
15.0 km
6.24 km
5.56 km
1.40 km
242 m
Surfaces
14.3 km
11.1 km
2.05 km
594 m
387 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Saturday 27 June
23°C
14°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 21.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for an accessible yet rewarding gravel biking experience in Walnut Creek, the Heather Farm & Lake – Ygnacio Canal Trailhead loop from De La Salle High School is definitely worth your time. This moderate 17.6-mile (28.4 km) route features 1115 feet (340 metres) of elevation gain and can be completed in about 2 hours and 3 minutes, making it a solid choice for those seeking a varied ride without extreme challenges. It's an excellent option for riders of various skill levels, offering a blend of paved and unpaved sections through a scenic urban landscape.
What to expect on Heather Farm & Lake – Ygnacio Canal Trailhead loop from De La Salle High School
This route offers a journey through diverse scenery, starting with mostly paved surfaces along the Ygnacio Canal Trail, where you might spot ducks enjoying the water. As you continue, the trail leads you through the expansive Heather Farm Park, a 102-acre public space featuring two lakes, open grassy areas, and recreational facilities. While much of the path is smooth, be prepared for some unpaved segments, especially if you venture onto alternate gravel paths in the wider Walnut Creek area. You'll also pass through residential areas and local parks, enjoy a unique, well-lit tunnel beneath Ygnacio Valley Road, and catch glimpses of Mount Diablo in the distance. The ride is rated moderate, requiring good fitness, but the generally flat Ygnacio Canal portion makes it approachable for beginners and families.
Planning your visit
The loop conveniently starts from De La Salle High School, providing a clear trailhead. While specific parking details aren't provided, you'll likely find options nearby. Springtime is particularly recommended for this route, as the rolling hills can be adorned with vibrant wildflowers and California poppies, enhancing the natural beauty of the ride. As with any ride, ensure you carry enough water, especially on warmer days, and consider starting earlier to enjoy the cooler parts of the day.
Trail details
- Distance: 17.6 miles (28.4 km)
- Elevation gain: 1115 feet (340 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 3 minutes
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