Shell Ridge Open Space (Starting from Rockspring Place)

August 17, 2014
Walnut Creek, CA
Hikers: Cathy, Laura
Distance: 7.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,347 ft.


I hate to say it... but this was a rather boring hike. Very little single track, mostly fire-roads in the wide open. Not much to look at but dry grass.

The only sign of wildlife that we saw today - snake skin near a hole in the grass.

Stopped off at Borges Ranch to have a snack. The most exciting part of the hike.

OK, two signs of wildlife - nothing live though.

Sulfur Creek comes out to the road; you pick up the Costanoan at the top of this road.

This is what most of the hike looks like.

Trails:

Joaquin Ranch, Briones to Mt. Diablo, Coyote Pond*, Briones to Mt. Diablo, Borges Ranch, Foothills, Stonegate, Briones to Mt. Diablo, Borges Ranch, Costanoan, Sulfur Creek, Costanoan, Corral Springs, Ginder Gap, Joaquin Ranch. 

*Coyote Pond trail is about one-tenth of mile to your right (off of Joaquin) - unmarked. If you take it further up the trial off of Briones to Mt. Diablo trail where it is marked, as we did, it brings you back to the beginning - near your car. 

Shell Ridge Open Space

Shell Ridge Open Space

December 22, 2013
Walnut Creek, CA
Hikers: Cathy, Laura
Distance: 6.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,427 ft.

Notice the pretty piece of shell sticking out in the middle.

Shells everywhere! Hence the name Shell Ridge.

Here we go..

Coming back down. The trail got to be a bit precarious. We'll take the trail that was to the left..

We could really use some rain, not just in general, but to wash away all this ugly smog!

So nasty.

This view makes you feel like you are in a foreign land.

Almond tree.

Laura tried an almond; she said at first it was quite bitter, then it had a strong, fresh almond flavor.

So very young.

I remember hearing about their passing.

 

 Trails:

Fossil Hill, Kovar, Summit Ridge, Indian Creek, Briones to Mt. Diablo, Corral Springs, and Ridge Top, plus a few unnamed..

Shell Ridge Open Space