BAY FARM ISLAND

BAY FARM ISLAND

Hike Date:  Saturday, August 24, 2024

Leader:  Robert Hickey

Leader Email:  robert3327@gmail.com

Leader Phone:  510.813.3406

Hike Rating:  Level-2*

Hike Mileage:  ~ 5.0 miles*

  *See below how you can extend to a Level-3 hike (~ 7.0 miles).

Elevation Gain:  ~ 0' (basically flat)

Description:  This is a shorter version of a hike I did back on 6/3/23 (and it starts/ends where we had lunch in the original hike).  Beginning from just south of the Ferry Terminal, along the SF Bay, we'll head to and through a meandering and richly landscaped lagoon.  This "secret" spot is a good place to observe a variety of waterfowl, and it reminds me more of a relaxed Southern California than it does the urban Bay Area.  Halfway through our hike, we'll exit the lagoons and make our way back around the perimeter of Bay Farm, collecting views of Alameda Island across the way, the city of San Francisco in the distance and the SF Bay at large as it heads towards the South Bay.  Arriving back where we started, those who brought lunch can enjoy a leisurely view of the ever-photogenic SF Bay.

If you want to extend your hike after lunch you can walk along the water towards the Oakland airport and then turn around to add an extra mile or two to your hike.  If you're carpooling just make sure everyone in your car wants to do the extra distance with you.  See here how you can extend your hike (map).  Note:  This portion would be a self-lead hike.

Bring / Wear:  Bring water, hiking boots or walking shoes (the way is paved), hat, sunscreen... and lunch (there are picnic tables that we'll sit at with views of the bay).

Rain Policy:  Hike may be cancelled if rain.

Dogs:  Woof, yes!  

Are you up for the hike?  If so, here are the meeting options...

• SF Meeting Location:  Whole Foods (map) @ 2001 Market Street.  Meet on the Dolores Street side.  There's parking on the street or below the building.

SF Meeting Time:  9:00 AM (departure shortly thereafter).

• East Bay Meeting Location:  Rockridge BART station (map).  Meet at the bottom of the escalators.  There's free and ample parking.

East Bay Meeting Time:  9:10 AM (departure shortly thereafter).

NOTE:  Please only show up at Whole Foods or the Rockridge BART station if you have a ride arranged ahead of time (see Carpool Fees below).

• TRAILHEAD MEETING LOCATION:  We will meet at the Ferry Terminal Parking Lot (map).

Trailhead Meeting Time:  9:30 AM (hike begins at 9:45 AM).

Total Driving Distance (round trip):  47 miles (SF), 33 miles (Rockridge BART).

Carpool Fees (per passenger):  $8* (SF) or $4 (Rockridge BART).

*Includes bridge toll.

NOTE:  I'll reach out to those registered who have indicated that they need/want a ride or can take passengers.  If you need to contact me for whatever reason, please do so before Friday @ 3:00 PM the day before the hike.