BERKELEY TO ORINDA BART, ONE WAY

BERKELEY TO ORINDA BART, ONE WAY

Hike Date:  Saturday, September 26, 2026

Hikeleader:  Kevin Kostlan  | kostlankj@gmail.com

Carpooling Meeting Locations:
SF: Whole Foods;  2001 Market St. @ Dolores (on the Dolores St. side); parking on the street or below.
Rockridge BART: Bottom of escalator.

Carpooling Meeting Times: SF: 9:20am | Rockridge: 9:45am 
Please only show up at the carpooling place if you've arranged to meet your ride or driver there.  Taking BART is highly encouraged. Parking in downtown Berkeley can be difficult and expensive.

Rating: Level 3

Mileage:  6.5 miles

Elevation Gain: 1600'

Description: This, in my opinion, is the best one-way BART hike. It offers a hefty workout, wide fire trails, and views of Berkeley and Orinda as you ascend and descend the ridge. It ends 300 feet higher than the starting point.

Reminisce about college as you traverse the winding trails and the eclectic buildings of the Berkeley campus. Leaving the campus we'll ascend a fire trail - expect a good cardio workout.  Plenty of opportunities for a group photo overlooking the city.  We'll stop for lunch near the top.  After lunch we'll cross the ridge, bringing us into a warmer, drier climate.  Brown grass and drought-hardy oaks replace eucalyptus.  Shortly, Orinda comes into view, nestled within the rolling hills, with views of Mt. Diablo, and Briones and San Pablo Reservoirs in the distance.

NOTE: An EBMUD Trail Permit is required for this hike.  They are reasonably priced ($3).  A permit will allow immediate family members and 3 guests.  Go here for more information and to purchase a permit.

Bring / Wear:  Please bring plenty of water, bug repellent, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, lunch, snacks, sturdy hiking shoes, and hiking poles if you use them.  Chocolate is always appreciated!

Weather Policy:  Hike all be canceled in the event of heavy rain.

Pet Policy: Pets are not allowed on this hike.

Trailhead Meeting Place: Wait for the hike either inside or outside **Elaichi Co**, you will see the group either way. This coffee shop is just one block from Downtown Berkeley BART. **Do not wait at the station itself.**
2161 Allston Way, Berkeley, Ca.  94704   Google Maps Link

NOTE: If you are driving to the trailhead, allow extra time to find parking.  Taking BART is highly encouraged.

Trailhead Meeting Time:  10:10 AM

Trailhead Departure Time: 10:25 AM

Total driving distance, there and back: 28 miles from SF; 6 from Rockridge.

Passenger Carpool Fees from SF:  $5  From Rockridge BART: $1

You will be informed of carpooling arrangements by late Thursday or early Friday.