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| shell ridge open space, walnut creek |
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Surrounded by the Diablo Foothills, this spot feels utterly removed from the city. There are miles and miles of hiking trails where your hound can roam off leash. In the summer, the warm, sunny weather of the East Bay is a nice break from the San Francisco fog.
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Approximately 28 miles from the city. Without traffic, a 35-to-40-minute drive.
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Cross the Bay Bridge and take I-580 east to the Route 24 exit. Take Route 24 east toward Walnut Creek for about 14 miles. After you pass Pleasant Hill, merge onto I-680 North. Take the first exit, Ygnacio Valley Rd. At the light, turn right and travel east on Ygnacio for about 2.5 miles. Turn right onto Walnut Ave. After about 1.5 miles, turn right onto Oak Grove and then bear right onto Castle Rock Rd. About a mile down, past Northgate High School, turn right. A narrow road will lead you to the parking lot at Old Borges Ranch and the Ranger Station.
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Over 30 miles of undeveloped open space to run free—leashes are only required in developed areas (parking lots and picnic areas). Your city hound will be submerged in nature with plenty of oak-studded trails, rolling grasslands, and fields of wildflowers.
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Challenging hikes, scenic views, and serenity.
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At the Old Borges Ranch, a working cattle ranch on the National Register of Historic Places, there is a picnic area shaded by huge oak trees, with bathrooms and running water. A nearby fishing pond has a sign saying it is unsafe to swim, but the ranger insisted the murky water would not harm our hound.
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Bring lots of water for you and your dog as Walnut Creek can get very hot, especially in the summer. We suggest wearing a Camelback if you have one. Other necessities: hiking boots, insect repellant, sunscreen, poop bags, trail treats and food for a picnic. After the hike do a thorough tick check of yourself and your dog.
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Dogs may be off-leash in undeveloped areas but "must be under positive sight and voice command." Owners must carry a leash (not longer than 6 feet) and dispose of dog waste in the garbage cans.
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Free
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Phone: 925-942-0225 (ranger)
Website: City of Walnut Creek Open Space and Trails Division
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