Berkeley Fire Trails
Explore scenic trails with panoramic Bay views, vibrant wildflowers in spring, and serene redwood groves.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Berkeley Fire Trails
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore scenic trails with panoramic Bay views, vibrant wildflowers in spring, and serene redwood groves.
"Breathtaking views and a perfect escape for walks, runs, and capturing stunning sunsets."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Wear hiking shoes, especially after rain, as trails can get slippery. Sneakers might not be enough.
🚗 Drive Up for Ease
The drive up can be steep, but it's an option to skip the initial climb from campus.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Bay Views
Various points along the trails
Soak in breathtaking vistas of the San Francisco Bay, bridges, and city skyline. Perfect for sunset lovers.
Wildflower Spectacle
Throughout the trails
In April, the trails burst with vibrant wildflowers, creating a picturesque and colorful hiking experience.
Redwood Grove Immersion
Woodbridge Metcalf Grove
Discover a serene redwood grove tucked away, offering a tranquil escape amidst towering trees.
Iconic UC Berkeley Views
Overlooking the campus
Catch glimpses of the Campanile and campus landmarks from elevated vantage points on the trails.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trail Etiquette & Gear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Wear hiking shoes, especially after rain, as trails can get slippery. Sneakers might not be enough.
🚗 Drive Up for Ease
The drive up can be steep, but it's an option to skip the initial climb from campus.
🐶 Dogs Welcome!
Bring your furry friends along for the adventure, but remember to clean up after them.
📸 Sunset Photo Ops
The fire trails offer incredible sunset views, perfect for capturing memorable photos. 
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Wear hiking shoes, especially after rain, as trails can get slippery. Sneakers might not be enough.
🚗 Drive Up for Ease
The drive up can be steep, but it's an option to skip the initial climb from campus.
🐶 Dogs Welcome!
Bring your furry friends along for the adventure, but remember to clean up after them.
📸 Sunset Photo Ops
The fire trails offer incredible sunset views, perfect for capturing memorable photos.
🗺️ Trail Variety
Explore the main fire trail or venture onto side paths for more challenging routes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning Bay Area views, especially at sunset, and the beautiful wildflower displays in April. The trails offer a good mix of accessible paths and challenging side routes, making them suitable for walks, runs, and even family outings. Some find the drive up steep, and a few note that views can be comparable to other East Bay hikes, but overall, it's a beloved local spot.
"Pretty trail with trees on both sides, wide and not washed out. The connector is steep and will get your heart rate up but then its a gentle climb."
Kat Rains
"Sat on a stump at sunset and realigned every chakra. 10/10 would go again. Drive up not for the faint of heart."
Kate M
"Easily accessible trails. Quite some elevation gain to get there but completely worth it.
Beautiful view of the bay area.
Perfect for a relaxing walk or run. Dogs allowed."
Mirka Mendez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can access the Berkeley Fire Trails from various points, including near Clark Kerr Campus or via Memorial Stadium. Some visitors walk from UC Berkeley, though this can be a strenuous start to your hike. Alternatively, you can drive up to trailheads, though the roads can be steep.
Yes, there are parking lots available at some fire trail trailheads, such as near Woodbridge Metcalf Grove.
Yes, it's possible to walk from UC Berkeley to the fire trails, but be prepared for a significant climb that can use up your energy before you even start hiking.
While the main fire trail is clear, there are many side paths. Having a map can be helpful, especially if you plan to explore less-traveled routes.
While direct public transport to trailheads might be limited, you can use public transport to get to the UC Berkeley campus area and then begin your walk or find nearby access points.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Berkeley Fire Trails are a public access area and do not require tickets for entry. Enjoy the natural beauty for free!
The trails are generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to visit during safe daylight times, especially for enjoying the views and avoiding slippery conditions.
There are no entrance fees for the Berkeley Fire Trails. It's a free public space for recreation.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns, lack of lighting, and potential for slippery conditions.
There are multiple access points. Popular ones include near Clark Kerr Campus, Memorial Stadium, and trailheads with parking like Woodbridge Metcalf Grove.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You'll find stunning panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, bridges, and the city skyline, especially beautiful during sunset.
Yes, the fire trails are a popular spot for runners, offering a mix of gentle climbs and steeper connectors to get your heart rate up.
The main fire trail is wide and generally well-maintained. However, side paths can be steeper and more challenging. Some parts can be slippery after rain.
Restrooms are not typically available directly on the fire trails themselves. Plan accordingly before you start your hike.
Absolutely! The trails offer fantastic opportunities for landscape photography, especially during wildflower season in April and at sunset.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for elevated points offering panoramic views of the Bay Area, especially during sunset. The redwood grove and wildflower patches are also highly photogenic.
Golden hour, just before sunset, provides the most dramatic lighting for capturing the Bay Area views. Early mornings can also offer beautiful light and fewer people.
Many visitors capture landscape shots of the Bay, cityscapes, and sunsets. Graduation photoshoots are also common, utilizing the scenic backdrops.
The Campanile (Sather Tower) can be seen from some vantage points on the fire trails, offering a classic UC Berkeley photo opportunity.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A tripod can be useful for sunset shots, but be mindful of the terrain.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For younger children, starting from a higher access point via car might be more manageable than a long walk from campus. Keep an eye out for the wildflowers in April, which can add an extra layer of wonder for kids. Remember to bring sturdy shoes for everyone, as even the main trails can have uneven sections.
🏃♀️ Runners and Fitness Enthusiasts
The elevation gain, especially when starting from lower points, provides a great cardiovascular workout. The panoramic Bay Area views serve as a fantastic motivator. Weekday mornings are often preferred for a less crowded running experience. Ensure you have appropriate running shoes that can handle varied surfaces, especially if you plan to venture onto the less maintained paths or after recent rain.
📸 Photographers and Sunset Chasers
+1 Bring a wide-angle lens to encompass the vast landscapes and consider a tripod for sharper shots as the light fades. Beyond sunsets, April brings the wildflower season, offering vibrant scenes perfect for landscape and detail shots.
The serene redwood grove also provides a unique photographic contrast. Many visitors share their graduation photoshoots here, utilizing the scenic backdrops for memorable portraits. Remember to check the weather, as clear skies are best for sunset views, but even a bit of cloud can add drama to your shots.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails: Routes and Terrain
Be prepared for elevation gain, especially if you start from the UC Berkeley campus. The climb can be significant, but the rewards are worth it. Reviewers mention that while the main trail is not washed out, some sections can become slippery after rain, so wearing appropriate footwear is crucial.
For those seeking a unique experience, the Woodbridge Metcalf Grove offers a tranquil escape into a redwood forest. This detour is a beautiful contrast to the open vistas and is a hidden gem within the fire trail system.
Capturing the Scenery: Photography Tips
+1Beyond the sweeping vistas, the trails also offer seasonal beauty. April is a prime time to visit for the wildflower bloom, transforming the hillsides into a colorful tapestry.
This provides excellent opportunities for macro photography or capturing the landscape dotted with vibrant blooms. For a different kind of natural beauty, seek out the Woodbridge Metcalf Grove for ethereal shots among the towering redwoods. Don't forget to look for iconic UC Berkeley landmarks. The Campanile (Sather Tower) can be spotted from certain vantage points, adding a classic touch to your photos. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just snapping with your phone, the fire trails provide endless visual inspiration.
+1Best Times to Visit for an Optimal Experience
For those chasing breathtaking views, late afternoons leading up to sunset are unparalleled. The golden hour light bathes the Bay Area in a warm glow, creating a magical atmosphere and providing incredible photo opportunities.
+1 Be aware that this is a popular time, so expect more company. If you're aiming to witness the vibrant wildflower bloom, April is your month. The hillsides come alive with color, making it a particularly picturesque time to visit. Consider the weather as well. While beautiful year-round, post-rain conditions can make some trails slippery, so proper footwear is essential.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit