Join Kaiser Permanente for a special hike led by Save Mount Diablo at the Hidden Valley Open Space on April 7th, beginning at 9am.
Hidden Valley Open Space is a 1,000 acre grassland bowl at the northeast corner of the Windemere development in San Ramon.
Almost completely circled by exposed ridges, in just a few minutes’ walk you can reach world class views of the urban Tri-Valley, Mount Diablo and lands to the east.
“We are so lucky to live so close to such amazing trails,” said Dr. Kai Kai Lam, pediatrician and physician site leader for Kaiser Permanente’s San Ramon Medical Offices which is set to open this fall. “Hiking is a great way to not only experience the scenic beauty that is all around us, but it is also a fantastic way to exercise as a family.”
The center of Hidden Valley Open Space is reserved for wildlife such as the San Joaquin kit fox, tiger salamander, red-legged frog, and burrowing owl. The grassland, with its ground squirrel and rodent populations, and the ridges which force wind currents upward combine to attract lots of raptors: kites, kestrels, hawks, owls and golden eagles.
Beginner Hike: This is a gradual, rolling hike along a ridgeline to various viewpoints.
Distance: Approximately 4 miles
Elevation Gain/Loss: 300 feet
Time: 90 – 120 minutes
Moderate/Advanced Hike: This 8 mile loop hike circles the ridges that create Hidden Valley. The gently rolling trail follows the contour of the hillside.
Distance: Approximately 8 miles
Elevation Gain/Loss: 500 – 600 ft
Time: 180 to 210 minutes
To register, email diablokp@kp.org with the names and email addresses of those attending. This hike is on a first come first served basis, as space and parking are limited. Plan to arrive by 8:30am for check-in and parking.
You do not need to be a Kaiser Permanente member to attend. Everyone is welcome.
Directions:
From Walnut Creek: Take exit 34 for Bollinger Canyon Road toward DVC San Ramon Valley Campus. Turn left onto Bollinger Canyon Road. Turn left onto Windemere Parkway. Turn right onto Emerson Lane. Take the first left onto Balmoral Way. Ramona Park will be on your left.
From Dublin: From Dublin Blvd head north on Dougherty Rd. Continue onto Bollinger Canyon Road. Turn right onto E Branch Parkway. Turn right onto Emerson Lane. Take the first left onto Balmoral Way. Ramona Park will be on the left.