Here comes March. The days have started getting longer, yet it is still a tad breezy and rainy. You wonder if it is even spring, as season changes are typically not obvious in most parts of California.
At least not until you see the hills—no longer a drab of yellow, but a carpet of lush greenery. This is perhaps the dose of refreshment that we all desperately need.
Just get out there.
Photos taken in Del Valle Regional Park.
Tips
- Arroyo Road Staging Area is a popular starting point: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/east-shore-heron-bay. Plan to start early, as parking fills up quickly over the weekend. Alternatively, you can also park at the nearby Sycamore Grove Parking ($5 per vehicle daily) and hike ~20 minutes to Arroyo Road Staging Area.
- Bring proper sun protection and plenty of water, as there is no shade throughout the trail. There are also some steep climbs in parts of the trail; bring trekking poles if needed.