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Best waterfall hikes in Contra Costa County
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Best waterfall hikes in Contra Costa County

If the calming sound of cascading water fills your soul with joy, you're in for a treat.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Contra Costa County.

Most popular hikes

1

Medium

George Cardinet Back Creek, Falls and Donner Loop Trail

Contra Costa County, California · star 4.5 (2) · 9.6 km · Est. 2 hrs 46 min

2

Difficult

Coulter Pines, Mount Olympia, North Peak, Mount Diablo and Eagle Peak Loop Trail

Contra Costa County, California · star 5.0 (4) · 25.1 km · Est. 1 day 2 hrs

3

Medium

Falls Trail and Middle Trail Loop

Contra Costa County, California · star 4.0 (3) · 8.7 km · Est. 2 hrs 20 min

4

Difficult

Mitchell Creek, ADT, Mount Diablo and Mokelimne Coast to Crest Trail

Contra Costa County, California · star 4.8 (4) · 23.1 km · Est. 1 day 1 hrs

5

Medium

Dooner Creek - Falls Trail and Tick Wood Loop Trail

Contra Costa County, California · star 4.3 (4) · 16.1 km · Est. 4 hrs 2 min

6

Difficult

Mount Olympia and North Peak Loop via Falls Trail

Contra Costa County, California · star 4.0 (1) · 18.8 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

7

Medium

Donner Creek and Coulter Pines Loop Trails

Contra Costa County, California · star 4.3 (4) · 9.6 km · Est. 2 hrs 31 min

8

Difficult

Meridian Ridge Road, Back Creek and Falls Loop Trail

Contra Costa County, California · star 4.7 (3) · 17.2 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

9

Medium

Coyote, Eagle and Condor Loop Trail

Contra Costa County, California · star 4.2 (6) · 13.2 km · Est. 3 hrs 34 min

10

Medium

Donner Creek and Wild Oat Canyon - Falls Loop Trail

Contra Costa County, California · star 4.6 (8) · 12.6 km · Est. 3 hrs 24 min

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Reviews for waterfall hikes in Contra Costa County

Willia Klocko avatar

George Cardinet Back Creek, Falls and Donner Loop Trail

SequoiaForester95 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Tuyet Greenfelder avatar

Coulter Pines, Mount Olympia, North Peak, Mount Diablo and Eagle Peak Loop Trail

ShorelineTrailblazer66 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Malik Kilback avatar

Falls Trail and Middle Trail Loop

TrailfoxSummitscout91 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Mr. Jamal Wintheiser avatar

Mitchell Creek, ADT, Mount Diablo and Mokelimne Coast to Crest Trail

MountainBasecamper38 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Mikki Terry avatar

Dooner Creek - Falls Trail and Tick Wood Loop Trail

SummitviewBlazer45 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Contra Costa County

What is the climate like for hiking in California?

California's vast geography results in diverse climates. Coastal regions, with their mild, Mediterranean climate, offer year-round hiking opportunities, though winter rains may muddy trails. In contrast, the inland valleys and desert regions are best hiked from October to April, as summer temperatures can be prohibitive.
The Sierra Nevada, famous for its mountains and forests, is popular in summer and fall. However, winter brings heavy snowfall, making trails inaccessible. Meanwhile, the pleasant climate of Southern California allows for hiking throughout the year, with cooler, wet winters and hot, dry summers.
To summarize, California's diverse climate offers year-round hiking opportunities, varying by region. Visit www.parks.ca.gov for more detailed information about specific trails and their recommended seasons.

Do I need a permit to hike in California?

Permits for hiking in California, particularly in wilderness areas or for overnight trips, are often required. Managed by the National Park Service, Forest Service, or Bureau of Land Management, permit processes vary. For more information, visit respective agency websites or www.recreation.gov for federal lands.

Is wild camping allowed in California?

Wild camping in California is generally permitted in national forests and Bureau of Land Management lands. However, restrictions apply, such as the requirement of a campfire permit. Always follow "Leave No Trace" principles. Detailed regulations can be found on agency websites like www.fs.usda.gov

Are there mountain rescue services in California?

In case of a hiking emergency in California, dial 911. Also, the California Office of Emergency Services coordinates search and rescue. The Mountain Rescue Association (MRA) has several units in California, with information available at www.mra.org. Always plan ahead and hike safely.

Are there dangerous plants in California?

California's flora varies widely, from coastal scrub and redwood forests to desert plants and alpine flora in the Sierra Nevada. This diversity can affect hiking experiences and trail conditions. For detailed information on California's flora, visit the California Native Plant Society website: www.cnps.org

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in California?

California's diverse habitats host a wide range of wildlife, from harmless squirrels to larger mammals like black bears. Ticks and mosquitoes may pose minor nuisances to hikers. Be aware of potential encounters, particularly with venomous snakes in desert areas. For more, visit https://wildlife.ca.gov/

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