Bay Area residents are lucky to live in a region that’s surrounded by all kinds of beautiful nature. We’re a stone’s throw away from the Pacific Ocean, and the numerous mountains and hills in the area provide excellent hiking opportunities. If you want to get some exercise while checking out some awesome vista points, look no further than Livermore. The East Bay city boasts plenty of nature, and there are many available hiking trails for people of all different skill levels. If you’re in the mood for panoramic views or just want to spend time outdoors, check out these hiking trails near Livermore. 

Brushy Peak Regional Preserve

Photo by Miguel Vieira / CC BY

This popular regional park is part of the East Bay Regional Parks system, as well as the Livermore Area Recreation and Park District systems. Brushy Peak is clean and green, letting you admire the rolling hills of the East Bay. The hiking trails are really rocky, so you might spot some rattlesnakes slithering around. They’re mostly unalarmed by human presence, so stay on the trail and keep moving if you spot one. The hikes can get challenging, so be sure to bring a pair of hiking poles or avoid this preserve altogether if you’re an inexperienced hiker. But if you have the fitness level to make it to the top, you’ll be rewarded with a phenomenal view. 

Holdener Park

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This 55-acre park can be reached by foot, horse, or bike via the South Livermore Valley Trail, or you can park at the end of Hansen Road and walk to the park. The park is a sight to see, especially during the warmer months, when wildflowers decorate the area in gorgeous color. Holdener Park is pleasantly shaded by blue oaks, and you’ll likely spot a wide variety of birds, reptiles, and butterflies no matter what time of year you visit. Keep your eyes peeled for red tail hawks, great horned owls, and deer. The hikes are relatively gentle, making them perfect for people of all fitness levels.

Sycamore Grove Park

Sycamore Grove PArk / Shutterstock

Sycamore Grove Park has two public entrances, which are connected by a two-and-half-mile paved path, with many smaller dirt paths straying off in different directions. Follow these paths to check out a variety of different habitats while enjoying views of the Livermore Valley, or stay on the main trail for a peaceful stroll over mostly flat terrain. You’ll probably spot different kinds of wildlife, including frogs, pond turtles, ducks, magpies, and even muskrats. If you feel like packing a picnic, there are reservable group picnic areas available. Keep in mind there is a $7 parking fee per vehicle.

Del Valle Regional Park

Del Valle Regional Park / Shutterstock

Located just 10 miles south of Livermore is the 4,395-acre Del Valle Regional Park. The oak-covered hills in this beautiful park are a sight to behold throughout the year, and you’ll see sailboats cruising along the waters. In fact, the lake is the crown jewel of this park, and it remains a popular destination for water recreation, including swimming, windsurfing, fishing, and boating. If you’re more of a land creature, the rest of the park has numerous trails for hiking and horseback riding. Conveniently, the park also provides a gateway to the Ohlone Wilderness Trail, which is a 28-mile long back-country hiking trail with breathtaking views.