Borges Ranch and Shell Ridge

Our adventure takes us along the Ridge Top and Costanoan trails. The hills are turning green, the ponds are fillling up, and the views are spectacular.

Borges Ranch is on the National Register of Historic Places. After our hike, we can stroll around the barn, corrals, outbuildings, blacksmith shops, and antique farm equipment. The ranch is also home to many farm animals, including goats, chickens, pigs, and sheep!

The East Bay hills are at increasing risk of wildfires due to our changing climate. Learn about our work and research to help the Bay Area prepare.

TOTAL DISTANCE

This is a moderate 3-mile loop with about 500 feet in elevation change.

LEADER

Ken Lavin

WEATHER POLICY

Rain cancels.

COST

Free; Reservations required.

WHERE TO MEET

We'll meet at the large parking lot near the picnic area.

As you proceed along Castle Rock Rd., you will pass Northgate High School on the right. About 0.7 mile past the school, there will be a turn to the right, with a sign saying “Old Borges Ranch.” Turn right there, and drive ⅔ of a mile, until you see the parking lot to the right of and below the road. There are restrooms near our meeting spot.

NOTES

Bring snacks, lunch, and water. Bring hiking poles (if you normally use them); Dress in layers and wear good hiking shoes. If you have any questions about this outing, contact Ken Lavin at a2xhdmluIHwgZ3JlZW5iZWx0ICEgb3Jn.

Photo: John Morgan via Flickr

Mike Gorin was born on the US East Coast, lived in Liberia and Norway as a youngster, grew up in England, and then moved to California in his late teens. He is an environmental educator for elementary and middle schoolers through the nonprofit The Gardens at Heather Farm, along with being a K-8 tutor. He hikes regularly in the East Bay and endeavors to make it up to the Sierra Nevada at least once a year.

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.

Also check out other Trips & Adventurous Activities in Walnut Creek, Meetups in Walnut Creek.