One of the joys of Lamorinda living is our convenient proximity to outdoor recreational spaces. Each of our towns – Lafayette, Moraga, and Orinda – boast a bevy of easily accessible hiking trails that encourage outdoor living. Take a walk along any of these paths not only to fulfill fitness goals, but to also get a sense of what ‘community’ truly feels like. For Lamorinda residents, these varied trails are where we go to relax, walk and talk with friends, and encounter faces old and new. Simply put, these trails are our collective backyard and we invite you to our ongoing backyard party:

LAFAYETTE RESERVOIR: Lafayette’s true communal hub, it’s impossible to walk the Reservoir’s 2.7-mile Lakeside Nature Trail without encountering neighbors and friends and their furry companions. If you are looking for a greater physical challenge, try the unpaved 4.7-mile Rim Trail with its steep hill climbs and spectacular views. Both can be accessed at the main Reservoir parking area off of Mt. Diablo Blvd. The Rim can also be accessed in Moraga on Paseo Grande via Campolindo Drive.

LAFAYETTE-MORAGA REGIONAL TRAIL: This 7.65-mile paved trail parallels St. Mary’s Road through Lafayette and Moraga. You’ll see runners, hikers, bicyclists, dog-walkers, and now and then, a horseback rider. The north end begins at Olympic Boulevard and Pleasant Hill Road in Lafayette, and ends at EBMUD’s Valle Vista staging area on the outskirts of Moraga. Bike the entire distance, or park and join at one of the many connector points along the way, such as the Lafayette Community Center.

BRIONES RESERVOIR LOOP: This 13.5 mile hilly, half-marathon loop in the Orinda hills is rigorous, and is best in either Spring when hills are green and wildflowers are blooming, or Fall, when the trees turn color and temperatures cool. At either time of year, you’re likely to spot waterfowl and other wildlife. Park at the Overlook Staging Area and walk past the EBMUD building facilities through pasture land and oak woodlands to the Bear Creek Staging Area. Trail usage requires a $3 permit (purchased on site).

SPRINGHILL SUNRISE LOOP: Another rigorous hike – but the reward is sweeping views of Lafayette and Mount Diablo. The 5-mile loop starts at the end of Springhill Road in Lafayette. Take the Buckeye Ranch Trail .5 miles and then make a right onto the hill-climbing Sunrise Trail. Don’t forget to turn around now and then for spectacular views of Mt. Diablo. A left at Briones Crest Trail takes you to the Lafayette Ridge Trail where you’ll overlook the Oakland Hills and the Lafayette Reservoir.

MORAGA RANCH TRAIL: This 5.4-mile, rarely trafficked, moderate hike crisscrosses Moraga Creek and reaches its highest point (1,200 feet) at Saint Mary’s Peak in Moraga. You’ll cross several bridges and will see an abundance of wild flowers, occasional grazing cattle, and magnificent views. Park at Rancho Laguna Park in Moraga, and enter the trail at Sanders Ranch. EBMUD clears the path, but wear long pants in case of overgrowth and poison ivy.

These are just a few of the area’s many trails. With a little “getting out and enjoying” we know you’ll quickly find your favorite. Happy hiking!