Castle Rock Park

This 12.5-13M, out and back trail to Mt. Diablo, offers interesting rock formations, hilly grasslands with oak savannas, and oak woodlands in the valleys. Striking sandstone formations are located near the trailhead, at the end of Castle Rock Road in Walnut Creek. Raptors that nest in the Castle Rocks are usually observed hunting for prey. Pine Creek flows through this portion of the Walnut Creek watershed, during the rainy season, it can swell drastically. To make creek crossings, you might have to wade in knee-deep pools of water .

Some of the most scenic areas are the series of ridges that link the Diablo Foothills Regional Park to Mt. Diablo State Park. The drop-offs, some of which are over 400 feet, may have gushing water run-offs during heavy rains. Much of the open space area is working cattle ranch land, you will pass through several gates during the ascent while on the Stage Road Trail. Climbing 1,000 feet, the trail becomes very steep near the last two windy miles of the BBQ Terrace Road. Watch for loose stones, gravel, and fissures from the water run-off. The view is quite spectacular of the East Bay at the top of the parking lot of this picnic area.

Facilities: Restrooms. Concessionaire each Friday from Memorial Day to Labor Day only.

Tips:

Mt. Diablo can be very hot, even on an overcast day. Be sure to take water, food, shades and a visor.

Sunscreen with insect repellent is advised, especially near dusk.

If the trailhead is closed during the rainy season, you can still get on the trail, but it will be very slow through many extensive mud patches and creek crossings. Mt. Diablo trails do not drain well, even after a week of no rainfall.

Beware of poison oak along the outside perimeters of the trail.

The trail near Castle Rock is near several horse riding stables. Beware of the damage that the hoof markings leave on the path, the terrain is extremely variable and uneven.

Pictures of Castle Rocks and nearby Borges Ranch.
Castle Rock Park.

Directions:

From Walnut Creek, take the Ygnacio Valley Road exit northeast to Walnut Avenue.
Turn right to Castle Rock Road.
Make another right on Castle Rock and follow the signs to the regional park.

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