Briones Crest Trail and Ivan Dickson Trail Loop

Starting your adventure near Contra Costa County, California, the Briones Crest Trail and Ivan Dickson Trail Loop offers a delightful 9 km (approximately 5.6 miles) journey with an elevation gain of around 300 meters (about 984 feet). This loop trail is rated as medium difficulty, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers.

### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transportation. If driving, head towards the Bear Creek Staging Area, located near the intersection of Bear Creek Road and Happy Valley Road. For those using public transport, the nearest significant landmark is the Lafayette BART Station. From there, you can take a taxi or rideshare service to the Bear Creek Staging Area.

### Trail Navigation For navigation, it's highly recommended to use the HiiKER app, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates to ensure you stay on track.

### Trail Highlights The trail begins at the Bear Creek Staging Area, where you can find ample parking and restroom facilities. As you start your hike, you'll be greeted by rolling hills and expansive meadows, typical of the East Bay Regional Park District.

#### Briones Crest Trail The initial section of the trail takes you along the Briones Crest Trail. This part of the hike offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and ridges. At around 2 km (1.2 miles) in, you'll reach a high point with an elevation gain of approximately 150 meters (492 feet). This is a great spot to take a break and enjoy the scenery.

#### Ivan Dickson Trail Continuing on, you'll transition to the Ivan Dickson Trail. This section is known for its lush oak woodlands and seasonal wildflowers. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species. The trail meanders through shaded areas, providing a cool respite during warmer months.

### Historical Significance The Briones Regional Park, where this trail is located, has a rich history. The land was originally inhabited by the Ohlone people before becoming part of a Mexican land grant in the 19th century. The park itself was established in the 1960s and has since been a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

### Points of Interest Around the 5 km (3.1 miles) mark, you'll come across the Briones Peak, the highest point on the trail. From here, you can enjoy unobstructed views of Mount Diablo and the San Francisco Bay. This is another excellent spot for a rest and some photography.

As you descend, the trail loops back towards the Bear Creek Staging Area. The final stretch takes you through open grasslands, where you might spot grazing cattle, a reminder of the area's ranching history.

### Final Stretch The last 2 km (1.2 miles) are relatively flat, making for an easy finish to your hike. You'll return to the Bear Creek Staging Area, where you can relax and reflect on your journey.

This trail offers a mix of challenging climbs, scenic vistas, and rich history, making it a rewarding experience for any hiker.