That Thing You Do: Briones Regional Park

Compiled here is our faithful narration of several hikes in Briones Regional Park, which has become our most favorite thing to do in the East Bay. We rely on its vastness, we depend on its lonely trails, and we require views from the tallest peaks. Each time we go there is a different experience, and yet it meets all the expectations we hold it to. While our main trail co-habitants are grazing cows, hovering hawks, and the occasional horse rider, it is safe to assume that the majority of the hike will be unmet with other humans, leaving a hike in Briones a true connection with nature.

My fondest memories already are at the start of each hike, when we chose which path to take. Jamie swiftly looks about, and points to the highest peak around. "There! I want to be at the top of that." Our path always has the same purpose! Boo paces us on our way to the top, as she finds tall grass to bury her face in, tiny streams to drink from, and the low flying birds to watch, in her frozen, attentive predatory stance.

There are too many gorgeous places to hike around San Francisco, which we are finding out quickly. But Briones has something the coastal views do not. I will leave it to those who come and visit us to find out on their own - there is only one way to know what that thing is.