Tilden Regional Park: From Jewel Lake to Wildcat Peak

For seventy years, East Bay families have come to learn about nature, play, and create precious memories in Tilden Regional Park. That affection and wonder are tangible as you start your hike on a wooded canyon trail sloping upward to Wildcat Peak. You will likely see wildlife here, a speckled egg on the trail dropped from a nest, squirrels hopping through the trees, a banana slug. The view from Wildcat Peak (1,250 feet) is a breathtaking 360 degrees, including the San Francisco Bay and the Lamorinda areas. You will pass through Rotary Peace Grove, then enjoy a self-guided nature hike on Jewel Lake Trail on your way back to the Environmental Education Center, a well-equipped visitor center. Over the year, Tilden planners have aimed to “strike a healthy balance between the natural world and the man-made world.” You see this on the drive in, passing the numerous picnic areas and trailheads, the Brazilian Room, steam train, carousel, Lake Anza swimming and fishing area, pony ride, Little Farm, education center, and protected nature area. Tilden is a great place to bring the kids (plan a shorter loop with them, Jewel Lake or the Pack Rat loop, about 0.9 mile). This eTrail also includes suggested nearby attractions, camping & lodging, restaurants, and local outdoor retailers.