What we’re about
Hiking with Friends is a group from Walnut Creek Friends Church and others who enjoy hiking the hills in Contra Costa County and other Bay Area locations. This group is for anyone who enjoys making new friends and exploring the great outdoors while developing stronger relationships with Jesus, nature, and one another.
Upcoming events (2)
See all- Black Diamond Mines - Nortonville LoopBlack Diamond Mines Regional Perserve, Pittsburg, CA
In this place, coal was mined from 1850 to 1900 and sand for glassmaking from 1920 to 1940. Today we extract memories and new relationships as we visit the ghost towns of Somerville and Nortonville.
Our hike is a moderately challenging 5.8 mile loop with an elevation gain of 1,387 ft. Expect open hills and woodlands plus great views along the way. Here is a map for your reference.
Dogs are allowed on the trail.
Let's meet at the Black Diamond Mines Upper Parking Lot here at 9:00 am. (see location map). Please be on time so you don't get left behind.
Alternatively, you can meet me for carpooling from the Walnut Creek Friends Church back parking lot here leaving at 8:15 am. Please confirm to coordinate timing.
Note: Sometimes there is a $5 parking fee charged as you enter, so plan accordingly.
Be sure to bring layers, a hat, sturdy boots/shoes, water to drink, a snack to eat, and as usual, an attitude for making friends.
See you soon!
Doug
- Point Reyes National Seashore - McClures Beach and Tamales PointWalnut Creek Friends Church Parking Lot, Walnut Creek, CA
The rugged coastline of Point Reyes National Seashore is truly amazing and full of exploration opportunities.
This day-long adventure will include a stop at the Bear Valley Visitor Center, a hike to McClures Beach, and a trek in the Tule Elk Reserve via the Tamales Point trail. Expect amazing scenery, wildflowers, wildlife and weather - with possible whale sightings along the way.
Our itinerary includes:
- 8:45 am - Meetup at the Walnut Creek Friends Church back parking lot – 1950 First Ave in Walnut Creek
- 9:00 am to 10:30 – Drive to Point Reyes Bear Valley Visitor Center
- 10:30 am to 11:30 am – Check out the Visitor Center and Earthquake information
- 11:30 am to 12:00 – Drive to McClures Beach trailhead
- 12:00 am to 1:00 pm – Hike (0.4 miles) down to the beach to have lunch and explore there
- 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm – Relocate and hike the Tule Elk Reserve via the Tamales Point trail
- 3:30 pm to 5:00 pm – Return drive to the church parking lot
These are approximate timeframes. Plan to help with gas. Dogs are not allowed.
Here are links to trail descriptions for reference:
- McClures Beach Trail. This is an easy hike to the beach, a bit more effort uphill to return.
- Tamales Point Trail. This is a relatively easy to moderate section of the trail. We will only go out-and-back as far as time allows.
Be sure to check the weather and bring layers, sturdy boots/shoes, water to drink, a lunch and snacks to eat, and as usual, an attitude for making friends.
See you soon!
Doug
