In part 1 of this hike, we hiked approximately 10 miles from Del Valle Regional Park, which is in a deep canyon in the Livermore Valley, Alameda County. We camped overnight at one of the Maggie’s Half Acre four campsites, and now continue west toward Sunol Regional Park. This is a very strenuous hike and much of it – particularly Day 2 as described here – is very exposed so do it when the temperature drops!

Day 2’s hike is also ten miles. From the Maggie’s Half Acre sites, which are on a clearly indicated trail bypass, we start the day with a stiff, but relatively short ascent, and soon rejoin the Ohlone Wilderness Trail.

We gradually leave the shelter of oak and pine trees for open, grassy, rolling hills and begin our overall descent. (Maggie’s Half Acre was at 3,590 feet; we will end this hike at Sunol’s parking lot at 390 feet.)  In late spring and early summer, we may find masses of our state flower – the bright, orange California Poppy. It seems to thrive in proximity to our state rock – the glossy, blue-green Serpentine.

Many kinds of wildlife live in this wilderness area. In the past we’ve seen bobcats, wild boars, wild turkeys, and coyotes. Ground squirrels are abundant and red-tailed hawks swoop down to catch them. Various snakes might be seen including gopher snakes and rattlers. At one of the creek crossings, we spotted a striped racer.

Although we continue descending, there are many of what can be described as “PUDS“– pointless ups and downs. We reach Sunol Backpack Camp with its set of seven campsites scattered around – Eagles Eyrie, Sky Camp, Hawks Nest, Stars Rest, Sycamore, Oak View, and Cathedral – each with enough trees to provide welcome shade.

When we reach the gate and Backpack Road beyond, we have a choice of two trails to reach the Sunol parking lot. Each is about 3-1/2 miles in length. Those wanting to take the narrower, steeper, and more exposed path, would take the McCorkle, Canyon View, and Indian Joe trails. If you want to reach the wide, flatter, and more shaded road along Alameda Creek, turn downhill after the gate following the Backpack Road, and then turn right onto the Camp Ohlone Road. This second option takes you past the popular “Little Yosemite,” and the old “W” tree.

Congratulations on completing one of the most strenuous hikes in the San Francisco Bay Area.

If you missed part 1 of Looking for a challenge? Backpack the Ohlone Wilderness Trail, click here, and you’ll see how we arrived at Maggie’s Half Acre campsites in Ohlone Wilderness.

Details:

• Reservations are required for overnight camping. Call: 1-888-327-2757, press option 2, then 1.
• Permits are required at any time for hiking in the wilderness area. The annual pass, $2-$2.50, is available at various sites (click here) or by phone when you make the camping reservation.
• Carry plenty of water!!! The trail map/permit you will receive shows the location of piped water – bring water purification tablets, other treatment measures, or plan to boil water for drinking.
• Trail map, click here
• Hiking poles strongly recommended!
• If you want to avoid the heat, try this trip fall-winter or on an overcast day other times of year.