The Ohlone Wilderness Trail is the San Francisco Bay Area's premier backpacking experience, traversing 28 miles of rugged ridgelines, oak-studded valleys, and remote wilderness between Del Valle Regional Park near Livermore and Mission Peak Regional Preserve in Fremont. With 7,100-8,300 feet of cumulative elevation gain (depending on the route), this relentlessly challenging point-to-point trail climbs over 3,817-foot Rose Peak and offers panoramic vistas that stretch from the Diablo Range to the South Bay.
This trail is best suited for experienced backpackers seeking a demanding training ground—many use it to prepare for Sierra trips or long-distance thru-hikes like the Pacific Crest Trail. The constant up-and-down profile, long exposed sections, and variable water availability demand solid fitness, navigation skills, and careful planning. Spring backpackers are rewarded with emerald hillsides carpeted in wildflowers, flowing creeks, and the chance to see Murietta Falls—the Bay Area's tallest waterfall at 100+ feet—in full flow.
As of January 1, 2026, the Ohlone Wilderness Trail no longer requires a day-use hiking permit. However, overnight camping reservations remain mandatory and must be booked at least two business days in advance by calling the East Bay Regional Park District Reservations Department at 1-888-327-2757 (option 2), Monday-Friday, 9am-4pm. Reservations for January-June open in the previous fall; July-December reservations open in April.
Camping fees apply per site per night. Overnight parking permits are included with your camping reservation and are valid at Del Valle, Sunol, and Mission Peak trailhead parking lots.
Important restrictions: - No dogs allowed on overnight trips (dogs permitted for day hiking only) - No campfires, BBQs, or bicycles at backcountry campsites - Backpacking stoves only for cooking - No alcohol at campsites - Maximum group sizes apply (check with reservations) - Stay on trail when crossing San Francisco Water Department leased lands—trespassing off-trail may result in citations
For the latest regulations and camping availability, visit the East Bay Regional Park District website or call ahead.
Prime season: March through May
Spring offers the optimal window when winter rains have transformed the normally golden hillsides into lush green slopes dotted with wildflowers (peak late March to early April). Creeks and springs flow reliably, temperatures are mild (60s-70s°F), and Murietta Falls cascades at its most impressive volume. This is when the Ohlone Wilderness Trail truly shines.
Winter (December-February): Trails can be muddy and slippery after storms, but water is abundant. Occasional rain and cool temperatures (40s-50s°F) require waterproof gear. Murietta Falls is at peak flow after heavy rains.
Summer (June-September): Not recommended. Exposed fire roads become brutal heat traps with temperatures exceeding 95°F. Water sources dry up significantly. The parched landscape turns brown, and shade is scarce. Dehydration and heat stroke are serious risks.
Fall (October-November): Shoulder season with warm days and cool nights. Water is at its scarcest—call ahead to confirm availability at campsites. Less crowded than spring but less scenic.
Water is the primary challenge on this trail. Seven backcountry campsites offer water from natural springs, but availability is never guaranteed and varies seasonally. All water is non-potable and must be filtered, treated, or boiled.
Critical: Call 1-888-EBPARKS before your trip to verify current water status at your planned campsites. In late summer and fall, many sources dry up completely, requiring you to carry all water between sites—potentially 4-6 liters.
Campsites with water access (west to east): - Eagle Spring Backpack Camp (4 sites) - behind Mission Peak - Sunol Backpack Camp (7 sites: Sky Camp, Cathedral, Hawk's Nest, Oak View, Sycamore, Eagle's Aerie, Star's Rest) - Doe Camp (2 sites) - Maggie's Half Acre (3 sites) - behind Rose Peak - Stewart's Camp - Boyd Camp (2 sites)
Additional water can sometimes be found at creek crossings including South Fork Indian Creek, North Fork Indian Creek, and Williams Gulch, but these are seasonal and often dry by late spring.
Resupply: This 28-mile trail is typically completed in 2-3 days, so most backpackers carry all food and supplies from either Livermore (eastern trailhead at Del Valle) or Fremont (western trailhead at Mission Peak). No resupply options exist mid-trail. The nearest towns with full services are Livermore and Fremont, both offering supermarkets, outdoor gear shops, and restaurants.
Elevation Profile: This is not a casual trail. The first 5.5 miles from Del Valle climb steeply toward Rose Peak. Expect continuous aggressive ascents and descents—the first 2.4 miles gain 1,600 feet to Boyd Camp, and the notorious "Big Burn" section climbs 1,100 feet in just over a mile. Cumulative elevation gain approaches 8,000 feet for the full traverse.
Heat Exposure: Long stretches follow shadeless fire roads across open grassland. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F, creating serious dehydration and heat stroke risk. Even in spring, carry more water than you think you need—at least 3-4 liters between water sources.
Cattle: You'll encounter 100+ cattle along the trail. These are generally docile but give them space, never get between a cow and her calf, and speak calmly if passing close. Cattle gates must be closed behind you.
Rattlesnakes: Northern Pacific rattlesnakes are common, especially in late spring through fall when they emerge from hibernation. Stay on trail, watch where you put your hands and feet, and listen for the distinctive rattle warning. If bitten, remain calm and call 911 immediately.
Mountain Lions: Rare but present. Make noise while hiking, especially at dawn/dusk. If encountered, face the animal, make yourself large, and back away slowly.
Navigation: Cell phone reception is nonexistent along much of the route. Carry a map and compass or GPS device. Trail junctions are generally well-marked, but fog can reduce visibility on ridgelines.
Water Department Lands: Significant portions cross San Francisco Water Department leased property. Strictly stay on the designated trail corridor—rangers actively patrol and issue citations for off-trail travel.
Del Valle Regional Park (Eastern Trailhead): From Livermore, head south on North Livermore Avenue, which becomes South Livermore Avenue. About 1.5 miles south of town, turn right onto Mines Road. After 3.5 miles, continue straight on Del Valle Road (Mines Road branches left). The park entrance is 4 miles ahead. Parking fee applies (around $6-10). Roads are paved and accessible to all vehicles.
Mission Peak Regional Preserve (Western Trailhead - Stanford Avenue Staging Area): From I-680 in Fremont, take the Mission Boulevard exit. Head east on Mission Boulevard, then turn right on Stanford Avenue. The staging area is at the end of Stanford Avenue. Alternative parking at Ohlone College charges a $4 fee.
No Shuttle Service: This is a point-to-point trail with no official shuttle. You must arrange your own transportation: - Two-car shuttle: Leave one vehicle at the exit trailhead, drive together to the start - Rideshare: Uber/Lyft from Dublin BART to Del Valle costs approximately $35-40 (30 minutes) - Friend drop-off: Coordinate pickup at the opposite end
Nearest Airport: Oakland International Airport (OAK) or San Jose International Airport (SJC), both about 45-60 minutes from trailheads.
Overnight Parking: Included with your backpacking reservation at Del Valle, Sunol, and Mission Peak lots. If using two vehicles, request an overnight parking permit when booking.
Direction matters: Most backpackers prefer hiking Del Valle to Mission Peak (east to west) to tackle the steepest climbs early when packs are heaviest, saving the gradual descent from Mission Peak for the final day. The alternative direction finishes with brutal climbs.
Campsite strategy: Book Maggie's Half Acre for your first night (roughly 11 miles from Del Valle). This positions you near Rose Peak for a sunrise summit before continuing west. Second night at Sunol Backpack Camp or Eagle Spring sets you up for a shorter final day.
Mission Peak crowds: If finishing at Mission Peak on a weekend, expect hundreds of day hikers on the final 3 miles. Start early to avoid the midday crowds.
Murietta Falls side trip: Add 1-2 miles round-trip for a spur to the Bay Area's tallest waterfall (100+ feet). Only impressive after winter/spring rains—bone dry by summer.
Tarantulas: In late summer and fall, male tarantulas cross the trail searching for mates. They're harmless and fascinating to observe.
Training value: Locals use this trail to prepare for Sierra backpacking (John Muir Trail, High Sierra Camps) or long-distance trails like the PCT. The elevation profile and water planning demands mirror higher-elevation challenges.
Wildlife viewing: Beyond cattle, watch for wild turkey, hawks, golden eagles, bobcats (rare), and black-tailed deer. Spring wildflowers include California poppies, lupine, and blue-eyed grass.
Cell phone blackout: Plan for zero reception. Download maps offline and inform someone of your itinerary before starting.
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