America’s Parks – Mount Diablo State Park in California

California has its fair share of big name national parks – Kings Canyon, Sequoia and Yosemite National Park among them. However, there are some lesser-known state parks that offer just as much outdoor adventure (and they’re often less crowded about it). Up in the San Francisco Bay, for instance, where you might expect miles and miles of uppity wine land, you can visit the strikingly beautiful Mount Diablo State Park. In fact, let’s go now!

Mount Diablo State Park is a 20,000-acre public reservation established around, you guessed it, Mount Diablo. The unmistakable “double pyramid” of Mount Diablo is a common sight to Northwestern Californians. If you’re traveling in, though, the mountain range is more than just a Bob Ross painting on your horizon. It’s a choice destination for a little outdoor fun.

A $10 per vehicle fee gets you into Mount Diablo State Park, and from there the options are many. Don’t be ashamed if you, like most visitors, head straight to the summit. A breathtaking view of Mount Hamilton, the Sierra Nevada, San Francisco and even the Golden Gate Bridge await you from the staggering 4,000 foot-high perch. While you’re there, take the chance to visit the Summit Museum, a daily attraction known as much for its impressive stone architecture as its exhibits.

Now that you’ve got that out of your system (and who can blame you), make time for other things to do in Mount Diablo State Park:

• Mary Bowerman Trail – a gentle trail located near the summit, incredible views the whole way round
• Rock City – don’t you have to go for the name alone? Features large rock formations and small caves
• Diablo Valley Overlook – another great vantage on the Golden Gate, spanned by that famous bridge
• Deer Flat – a more challenging 1.6-mile hike that holds the promise of wildlife sightings
• Fossil Ridge – like fossils? If yes, check out Fossil Ridge

The California State Parks Department knows more about Mount Diablo State Park than I ever will, so you can get some finishing information on their Web site. I’m just here to give you that spark!

Well, that and great hotel recommendations. The nearest major city to Mount Diablo is San Francisco, but we actually prefer to stay a little closer in the affluent city of Pleasanton.

Have fun exploring Mount Diablo State Park, one of America’s Parks.

Related Posts

1. Top Amusement Parks in America – Lagoon Park, Utah
2. Outdoor Adventure – Visit Crystal Cove State Park in California
3. The 10 Best Amusement Parks in America
4. Things to Do in Orange County – Crystal Cove State Park
5. Top Amusement Parks – Six Flags Great America in Chicago, IL
6. White River State Park in Downtown Indianapolis
7. Best Theme Parks in America – Universal Studios Hollywood