Monday, March 24, 2014

60 Hikes in 60 Miles in 60 Weeks: Week 30
Mission Peak

Spotting scope at the top of Mission Peak
What it's like:
This is a serious, sustained climb to the top of Mission Peak, near Fremont. Although the out and back trek is less than 6 miles, it's the kind of hike you brag about the next day at work (then again, for a taste of humility, you will likely see people hiking here on their daily constitution or run).

Why now:
Get to the peak before the weather is hot!

If you can't make it this week:
Trails do get muddy during the rainy season (I once fell into a cow sinkhole on Horse Heaven Trail and nearly lost my boot) but views are generally best on clear winter days. My favorite time to visit is early spring; by June the grass is already dry and since there is little shade this becomes a hot hike.

Insider tip:
You can reduce the elevation challenge (but increase the total distance) by starting this hike at Ohlone College, where the elevation is more than 100 feet higher than at the at Stanford Avenue trailhead.  Read about the parking options for Ohlone here, and consult the EBRPD map to alter the hike I describe in my book and webpage.

Mission Peak is hike number 27 in 60 Hikes in 60 Miles: San Francisco (third edition)Read about this hike on BAHiker.

Alternate choice:
Sonoma County's Helen Putnam Regional Park is a small preserve on the outskirts of Petaluma. The trails here wind through lovely mixed woods and grassland. Hike this 3 mile gentle loop this month to enjoy spring wildflowers throughout.

Post your comments and experiences here or on the BAHiker Facebook page.

7 comments:

Anonymous said...

Much of this hike is shaded, so it is a great choice vidmate in summer and autumn.

Anonymous said...

The peak is 2,500 feet above sea level, and it takes about 90 minutes to climb up. If you're in reasonably good shape, the hike should be fairly easy. Wear a hat and sunscreen since the sun can be harsh at this elevation. I need to get superior paper for help in the essay on time. Bring plenty of water and food (you'll need fuel for your energy), plus some extra layers of clothing if you get cold easily because the temperature can change quickly as you rise higher from sea level.

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Sophia2005 said...

It's great that it offers flexibility in starting points for Mapquest Directions varying difficulty levels, making it accessible for both seasoned hikers and those looking for a more gradual climb!

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