Mount Diablo. Other trails offer views to

The trails I took offered mild climbs on shaded single-tracks. Maples and oaks provided excellent shade and soft, leafy paths. It was a pleasant and comfortable environment with some occasional views. By the way, don’t look for coal. The mine was buried in a major landslide in 1890. Even with no coal, I hope to see more of Coal Mine Ridge Nature Preserve.

There are some minor negatives. No water fountains or bathrooms are available. You can’t bring dogs or bicycles. Some trails are closed seasonally to horses. And you are asked to not take flora or fauna home. One more thing. Don’t wander off trails.

You could get lost. I was sure to not violate these rules or go farther on Alpine. (The road is closed past the Coal Mine Ridge entrance.) Instead, I extended my trip with a drive down Alpine and north to Highway 84 (Woodside Road) and up to Alice’s Restaurant on Skyline Blvd. for a hamburger and a visit with the owner. He told me that more than 20 percent of his business is from hikers. I also discovered a large map of mountain parks bordered by brief descriptions at Alice’s.

Do you have a favorite park or trail near Skyline? Leave a message for me at 408-353- 1546. Happy exploring!