Mitchell Canyon Wildflower Walk

Our saunter will follow in the footsteps and paw prints of 19th-century botanic explorer David Douglas and his faithful dog, Billy. As we walk up Mitchell Canyon, we'll view many of the flora collected by the dynamic duo, including the rare and endemic Mount Diablo Globe Lily. (David Douglas also collected poison oak, but we'll keep a safe distance from that one!)

In recent years, episodes of drought and flooding have significantly impacted Mount Diablo State Park and surrounding communities. Greenbelt Alliance is working to prepare the Bay Area for climate change impacts and build resilience that centers people and nature. Read about our Strategic Plan here.

Photo: Judy Adler

TOTAL DISTANCE

This is a moderate hike of 4-miles round trip with a slight elevation gain. You may opt for a 2-mile round trip hike.

LEADER

Ken Lavin.

WEATHER POLICY

Rain cancels.

COST

There is a $6 per vehicle park entrance fee ( $5 for seniors). Exact cash required; pay at the entrance gate. You may also pay digitally by scanning the QR code on the sign near the entrance gate or Visitor Center; or text CA2902 to 53242. No app is required.

WHERE TO MEET

We'll assemble at the Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center.

NOTES

Bring snacks and water. Dress in layers and wear good hiking shoes. Bring poles if you normally use them. When Billy the terrier visited in 1831, David Douglas's best friend was allowed to rove on Mount Diablo. Dogs aren’t allowed on park trails nowadays, so leave your canine friends at home. If you have any questions about this outing, email Ken Lavin at a2xhdmluIHwgZ3JlZW5iZWx0ICEgb3Jn

Ken Lavin is the Outing Coordinator for Greenbelt Alliance and has been leading our free educational outings for over a decade. Ken worked as a national park ranger in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and as an instructor for Diablo Nature Adventures, teaching environmental science to school groups in Mount Diablo State Park. He served both as president and longtime board member of the Mount Diablo Interpretive Association (MDIA).

Also check out other Trips & Adventurous Activities in Clayton.