Acalanes Ridge

In winter 2005, an effort was made to keep hikers away from poison oak after one hiker suffered from contact with the plant. In October 2012, Oakland Tribune published an article describing how fire danger threatened Acalanes Ridge hiking trails in Contra Costa County because of dry conditions and low humidity levels that may have led to multiple fires being started by arsonists. At least seven hiking trails have been set on fire.
 

Hikers are required to carry hiking equipment such as water and food, hiking boots, hats, and gloves for protection against birch, oak, and manzanita. Acalanes Ridge hiking trails are not signed well; hikers must pay attention to trail markers that use symbols instead of words or numbers that can be easily misunderstood.
 

The hiking trails are also closed after rain begins due to the danger posed by mudslides created by heavy rains. The hiking trails are used by many people including students from nearby high schools who have been known to drink alcohol while hiking.

Hikers have expressed concern about illegal activities occurring on hiking trails during all times of the day including hiking safety at night when hikers may be more vulnerable to criminal activity such as sexual assaults due to reduced visibility compared to hiking during daylight hours.
 

 What sets this town apart from others are the rolling hills that surround it. From anywhere you are in town, you can see Mt Diablo looming nearby which makes for some great views. There are also plenty of parks to enjoy including Hidden Valley Park and Blanerne Park both with playgrounds for kids to play on! If your looking for outdoor activities while visiting Acalanes Ridge, hiking trails are all over the place.