Wildcat Canyon

Host: Phil W.

Wildcat Canyon Regional Park encompasses 2,789 acres along the Wildcat Creek watershed and the surrounding hills and ridges. The park extends from the Tilden Nature Area above the Berkeley hills in the south to historic Alvarado Park at the north end in Richmond. On east-facing slopes grows large coast live oaks, bay laurels, some big leaf maples, and madrones. North-facing hillsides support stands of bay laurel, coast live oak, coyote brush, elderberry, snowberry, bracken fern, and blackberry. The views at the lookout point include San Francisco, the Golden Gate and Bay Bridge, and Marin to the west.

The Hike

At the far end of the Alvarado Staging Area, we’ll follow Wildcat Creek Trail for 2.3 miles. There should be water available here. Turn left on Havey Canyon Trail into forested area for about 1.5 miles. Head north in the open field and we’ll go uphill. Turn left at Nimitz Way. After .68 miles follow signs for San Pablo Ridge Trail. We’ll break somewhere along the ridge. From here we’ll turn left on Belgum Trail all the way back to Wildcat Creek Trail.

Difficulty: Level 3 Challenging | Miles: 7.1 | Elevation: 1,263 ft

Getting There
(Click for directions)

From San Jose take I-880N to Richmond. Take exit 17 from I-80 E. Follow Amador St and McBryde Ave to Park Ave. Drive past the Park Office at 5755 McBryde Ave, Richmond, CA 94805 on Park Ave to the Wildcat Canyon Staging Area where we will meet and start hiking.

Know Before you go

There will be no protection from the elements on the middle section of the hike so dress accordingly. Dress accordingly with maybe a hat, sunblock, and plenty of water.

Drive Time: 52min – Parking Free – Dogs on a leash are allowed.