In the 19th Century, the northern foothills of Mount Diablo were home to the most important coal fields in California. Today, the once bustling mining towns are gone and the area is one of the parkland gems of the East Bay Regional Park District.
We’ll hike the Chaparral Trail to see spring flowers, view groves of Coulter Pine trees, and marvel at 50-million-year-old fossils in the rock along our route. We’ll also visit the historic Rose Hill Cemetery, final resting place for many of the coal miners and their families, including town matriarch and midwife Sarah Norton, whose ethereal spirit is said to haunt these hills.
TOTAL DISTANCE
This is a moderate 4-mile roundtrip hike with a 500 feet elevation gain.
LEADERS
Ken Lavin and Lily Parry.
WEATHER POLICY
Rain cancels.
COST
There is a $5 per vehicle park entrance fee.
WHERE TO MEET
We’ll assemble at the upper parking area at the end of Sommersville Road. There is a restroom nearby.
NOTES
Bring lunch and water. Dress in layers and wear good hiking shoes. Bring poles if you normally use them. If you have any questions about this outing, email Ken Lavin at klavin@greenbelt.org.
Lily Parry is a passionate naturalist currently studying Environmental Science at Diablo Valley College. Lily loves spending time outdoors, whether it’s hiking, volunteering, or exploring and learning about native plants. She’s excited to bring her enthusiasm for nature and growing knowledge of environmental science to help guide hikes and connect with others who share a love for the outdoors.
Ken Lavin is the Outing Coordinator for Greenbelt Alliance.
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