7 Scenic Places in the Tri-Valley
Photo credit: @cat.call
Made up of three distinct valleys and nestled in the foothills of Mt. Diablo, the Tri-Valley is surrounded by rolling hills and lush vegetation, making it a sight to see during any season. Coupled with all kinds of recreational activities, miles of interconnected trails, and plenty of sweet pitstops along the way, the Tri-Valley is a haven for outdoors-lovers, adventurers and active travelers. Check out the 7 best views that you won’t want to miss right here in the Tri-Valley.
Photo credit: @gaurav133jain
Sunol Regional Wilderness
Sunol, ca
Sunol Regional Wilderness is just minutes away from Pleasanton and is one of the most gorgeous areas to explore in the Tri-Valley. While this park is a pleasure to visit year-round, it becomes one of the best places in the Bay Area to view sprawling wildflower blooms during spring and summer months. Giant heaps of boulders at the base of Alameda Creek form what’s known as Little Yosemite, a scenic gorge complete with small waterfalls and pools at the end of a 2 mile trek into the park.
Photo credit: California State Parks
Mt. Diablo State Park
danville, ca
Standing at just 3,849 feet tall and considered a dwarf compared to other major peaks, Mt. Diablo is the gorgeous geographic backdrop of the Tri-Valley and our resident California State Park. Besides robust recreational options like picnicking, hiking, mountain biking, cycling, and mountain climbing, Mt. Diablo also boasts panoramic views of the entire Bay Area. On a clear day visibility at the mountain’s summit can reach up to 200 miles (making it possible to view certain landmarks like Mt. Lassen, Half Dome, and Golden Gate Bridge).
Photo credit: @andreaheyfron
Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park
pleasanton, ca
Set aside to become the backbone of the future Ridgelands Regional Park, Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park has been primarily left untouched. What remains is a preserved 5,271 acre playground for hikers, bikers and nature-lovers that’s covered in oak trees and features vistas of Pleasanton and Livermore. While the ridge views make for wonderful photos, it’s worth exploring the various deep canyon streams accessible via walking trails.
Photo credit: @jparks_runslivmor
Sycamore Grove Park
livermore, ca
Sycamore Grove Park is located just 2 miles from Downtown Livermore but you wouldn’t know it after walking its winding pathways past sweeping views of vineyards and rolling hills. Weave through oak trees, olive and almond orchards, and rows of carefully arranged grapes belonging to wineries in the Livermore Valley Wine Country.
Photo credit: @stephanie_yacoub
Livermore Valley Wine Country
livermore, ca
The Livermore Valley Wine Country is home to several wineries and tasting rooms scattered throughout the region. Stroll through the gardens at Concannon Vineyard, post up on its large shaded lawn, or sip and snack next to a Victorian house built in 1885 that lives on its estate. Grab a table on the patio or spark up a game of bocce at McGrail Vineyards for views of vineyards, ranches, and rolling hills along Greenville Road. Surrounded by hilly rows of grapes and olive orchards, Las Positas Vineyards is another sweet spot for scenic views.
Photo credit: @leonamarlene
Reinstein Ranch
AKA WHISKEY RANCH | livermore, ca
You may be at Reinstein Ranch for a wedding, a yoga retreat, or maybe you’re glamping in one of their decked out yurts, but whatever the occasion you’ll be happy to be there. Located close to Morgan Territory Regional Preserve, the surrounding hills offer scenic views with low foot-traffic getting there. While you’re there, don’t forget to ask about the 600 year old oak tree on property!
Photo credit: @_chien_zen
Las Trampas Regional Wilderness
danville, ca
Located just minutes from Downtown Danville, Las Trampas Regional Wilderness is a challenging yet rewarding trek to take on. Hiking along the Las Trampas ridge line promises vantage points with impressive views of Mt. Diablo’s silhouette cast on our skyline. From this perspective, not only does the mountain look larger than life, but miles of rolling foothills are visible at every turn.